iO Associates
Senior AIT RF Communications Engineer
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Job Title: Senior AIT RF Communications Engineer
Organisation Overview:
Our Client is a global leader operating within the space industry, pioneering innovations across satellite systems, earth observation, space exploration, and infrastructure. With over 55 years of experience and more than 450 successful missions, they are renowned for delivering cutting-edge solutions and pushing technological boundaries. Known for fostering a collaborative and forward-thinking culture, our Client offers an environment that encourages innovation, continuous development, and impactful work that shapes the future of space exploration. Embracing diversity and inclusion, they are committed to attracting talented professionals driven by a passion for science and technology, making them an exciting place to grow your career in the space sector.
Role Summary:
Due to strategic growth and ongoing programmes, we are seeking a highly skilled Senior AIT RF Communications Engineer to join our Client's team. This pivotal role offers the opportunity to lead critical satellite integration and testing activities, directly contributing to groundbreaking space missions. You will be instrumental in ensuring payload performance and reliability, supporting complex environmental tests, and developing advanced communication systems. This challenging and rewarding position provides a platform to influence the future of space technology while working alongside some of the industry's most talented engineers.
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Responsibilities:
- Lead a multidisciplinary team of AIT engineers to deliver comprehensive integration, testing, and verification campaigns within project timelines and budgets.
- Oversee the integration and performance testing of satellite payloads, including RF chain characterisation and link budget validation.
- Manage preparation and execution of environmental qualification tests such as thermal vacuum, vibration, acoustics, EMC/EMI, and shock assessments.
- Specify, commission, and maintain electrical ground support equipment (EGSE), developing detailed testing scripts, validation procedures, and maintenance plans.
- Prepare and maintain detailed documentation, including integration procedures, test plans, reports, and verification records.
- Manage non-conformance reports, oversee review processes, and support project review meetings, including Test Readiness, Post-Test, and Test Review Boards.
- Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers, fostering their professional development.
Essential Skills & Experience:
- Bachelor's degree or higher qualification in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
- At least 5 years' experience specialising in RF payload integration, satellite communications, or related aerospace fields.
- Proven expertise in RF system testing, including familiarity with vector network analysers, spectrum analysers, signal generators, and RF switching systems.
- Strong understanding of satellite communication architectures and RF chain design.
- Competent in both Linux and Windows environments, with proficiency in scripting and automation using Python.
- Exceptional communication skills, capable of presenting technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences, including senior stakeholders.
- Demonstrated success in steering cross-functional teams without direct authority, showcasing collaborative leadership.
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Desirable Skills & Experience:
- Experience with GEO, MEO, or LEO satellite projects.
- Knowledge of Ka-band, Ku-band, X-band payloads, and phased array antennas.
- Familiarity with on-board processing, spacecraft-level AIT campaigns, and software-defined payload architectures.
- Exposure to active phased array antennas and digital transparent or regenerative payload systems.
Call to Action:
If you are a motivated professional eager to contribute to pioneering space missions and possess the relevant expertise, we encourage you to submit your CV for consideration. Join our Client's innovative team and play a vital role in pushing the boundaries of space technology. We look forward to hearing from talented candidates who are passionate about making a difference in the cosmos.
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