RF Engineer

Aalto; Farnborough; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative company is seeking a skilled RF Engineer to join their dynamic team. This role offers the opportunity to design, test, and optimise cutting-edge wireless communication systems that push the boundaries of technology. You will be responsible for ensuring that RF systems meet operational standards while collaborating with various engineering teams to integrate RF technologies seamlessly. With a commitment to excellence and a focus on employee well-being, this forward-thinking firm provides a supportive environment where your contributions will directly impact the future of high-altitude connectivity solutions. If you are passionate about RF engineering and ready to make a difference, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Benefits

Private Medical Insurance

Dental and Optical Cash Back

25 Days Holiday

Personal Pension Plan

Income Protection

Life Assurance

Employee Assistance Programme

Employee Discounts via Perkbox

Cycle to Work Scheme

Car Salary Sacrifice Scheme

Qualifications

• Experience in RF engineering with a solid understanding of design and testing.
• Proficiency in RF simulation software and testing equipment is essential.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimise RF systems for wireless communication applications.
• Conduct RF measurements and simulations to ensure performance standards.

Skills

RF Design

Signal Processing

Wireless Communication Technologies

Troubleshooting

Performance Optimisation

Education

Electrical Engineering

Telecommunications

Tools

Spectrum Analysers

Vector Network Analysers (VNA)

Matlab

Job description

AALTO’s Zephyr aircraft is a High-Altitude Platform Station (HAPS) and is currently the sectors lead product having completed the most hours in the stratosphere with numerous payloads and configurations. Having already flown beyond 60 days we have demonstrated that we are able to provide longevity in the stratosphere, enabling both civil and military operations above 60,000ft which is up and beyond conventional air traffic.

Zephyr provides a more affordable service solution than satellites, with the additional benefit of increased mobility as we can relocate in lieu of needing to deploy additional satellites.

As a newly established entity we plan to become a leading Global HAPS Connectivity Service provider for the Mobile and Satellite Network Operator market. We can connect the diverse needs of our customers – whether for rural, overlay capacity, disaster recovery or new affordable service provisions. As a Platform as a Service (PaaS) we can also offer both Institutions and Military operators; Earth observation, tracking and comms. solutions and all powered by sunlight.

Job Purpose:

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented RF Engineer to join our team. The RF Engineer will be responsible for designing, testing, and optimising wireless communication systems and components. This role involves working on RF system design, signal processing, testing, and ensuring system performance meets operational standards.

Responsibilities:

• RF System Design: Develop/specify RF systems for wireless communication applications, ensuring optimal performance.
• Signal Analysis & Testing: Conduct RF measurements and simulations using tools like spectrum analysers, signal generators, and vector network analysers (VNA).
• Prototype Development: Validate and test prototypes of RF circuits, antennas, and systems to meet specifications.
• Performance Optimisation: Analyse and optimise RF system performance in terms of power, efficiency, and signal integrity.
• Troubleshooting & Debugging: Identify and resolve issues related to RF systems and components, including interference, signal loss, and network coverage issues.
• Collaboration: Work closely with other engineering teams (hardware, software, and systems engineering) to ensure seamless integration of RF technologies into products and solutions.
• Compliance & Standards: Ensure all RF designs comply with industry standards and regulatory requirements (e.g., FCC, CE, ETSI).
• Documentation: Maintain comprehensive documentation of RF designs, test results, and reports for internal and external stakeholders.

Requirements:

• A qualification in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field.
• Previous experience in RF engineering, with a solid understanding of RF design and testing is essential for this role.
• Proficiency in RF simulation software (e.g. Matlab).
• Experience with RF testing equipment (e.g. spectrum analysers, network analysers).
• Knowledge of wireless communication technologies (e.g. LTE, 5G, Wi-Fi).
• Familiarity with RF circuit design, including amplifiers, filters, and antennas (especially array antennas).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with antenna design and optimisation.
• Familiarity with PCB layout and design for RF circuits.
• Experience in RF system optimisation and troubleshooting in real-world environments.

In addition to salary, we offer:

• Rewarding Excellence: Benefit from our short-term incentive plan that rewards your hard work and dedication.
• Enjoy Your Time Off: Benefit from 25 days of holiday to relax and recharge.
• Stay Healthy: We’ve got your health covered with private medical insurance, along with dental and optical cash back.
• Secure Your Future: Take advantage of our personal pension plan to ensure a comfortable retirement.
• Peace of Mind: Our income protection and life assurance schemes are there to support you when you need it most.
• We Care About You: Our employee assistance programme is always available to provide the support you need.
• Perks Galore: Enjoy a range of employee discounts via Perkbox, because you deserve a treat!
• Go Green: Join our cycle to work scheme or take advantage of our car salary sacrifice scheme. It’s all about making your commute easier and more sustainable.