Systems Engineer | Satellite RF & Communications

NewOrbit Space Ltd; Reading; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A pioneering space technology company based in Reading seeks an RF Systems Engineer. You will design and integrate RF systems for groundbreaking satellites. Ideal candidates hold an advanced degree in Electrical Engineering, possess RF design experience, and are skilled in tools like CST and MATLAB. Join a team that redefines satellite operations and offers a competitive salary plus equity.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Equity and ownership stakes

Comprehensive benefits package

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years experience in RF system design in a satellite context.
• Strong understanding of RF components like LNAs and power amplifiers.
• Familiarity with SDR platforms and communication protocols.

Responsibilities

• Own the design of RF systems for satellites.
• Develop and maintain RF link budgets.
• Design and select antennas for small satellites.
• Lead RF testing campaigns.
• Collaborate with engineering teams for integration.

Skills

RF system design

Link budget analysis

Antenna selection

Testing and validation

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Advanced degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

CST

HFSS

ADS

MATLAB

Job description

Overview

At NewOrbit Space, our mission is to engineer the lowest orbiting satellites on Earth to rapidly advance global connectivity and insight. We are currently building satellites that can breathe air and operate at an altitude of just 200 km — one-third that of conventional satellites. Thanks to our proprietary propulsion system we can compensate for the atmospheric drag at ultra low altitudes using the air as propellant.

Please note that as we prepare for our maiden satellite mission, we are in a critical growth phase. Our roles will often require extended hours and are not typical 9-to-6 positions.

Responsibilities

• RF System Design & Integration: Own the end-to-end design of the satellite's RF systems, including both transmit and receive chains for telemetry, tracking, control (TT&C), and payload communication links.
• Link Budget Analysis: Develop and maintain detailed RF link budgets for all mission phases and orbital regimes, including low and ultra-low Earth orbits.
• Antenna Selection & Development: Design, simulate, or select antennas suitable for small satellite platforms, balancing performance, size, and thermal constraints.
• Testing & Validation: Lead testing campaigns including RF compatibility tests, over-the-air validation, and pre-flight functional verification of RF subsystems.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with the systems, avionics, thermal, and mechanical teams to ensure RF systems are robustly integrated within the satellite architecture.

Fundamental Requirements

• Educational Background: Advanced degree (MSc, MEng, or PhD) in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field, with a focus on RF or microwave systems.
• Industry Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience designing and implementing RF systems in a satellite or aerospace context.
• Technical Expertise:
  • Strong understanding of RF components (LNAs, filters, mixers, power amplifiers, etc.)
  • Proficiency with RF tools such as CST, HFSS, ADS, and MATLAB
  • Familiarity with SDR platforms and relevant communication protocols (e.g., CCSDS, S-band, X-band, UHF)

Why NewOrbit Space?

• Pioneering Space Technology - You'll contribute to launching groundbreaking technology into space. Your work on our revolutionary air-breathing ion propulsion system will redefine satellite operations in ultra-low Earth orbits.
• Unmatched Ownership and Impact - You'll experience a level of ownership that's rare in the space industry. You will participate in the full lifecycle of satellite technology.
• Equity and Competitive Salary - You'll receive not just a competitive salary but also company ownership stakes. Your dedication and hard work are rewarded with a share in the technology you help build, ensuring you're a part of our collective success.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package - Including private health insurance with dental and optical coverage, annual healthcare check-ups, etc.