At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop cutting-edge antennas for radar applications in a collaborative environment.
- Company: Join Blighter Surveillance Systems, a leader in electronic scanning radar technology.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, work hybrid, and be part of innovative projects.
- Other info: Dynamic team atmosphere with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on next-gen sensing and communication systems while enhancing your skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering or related field; RF/microwave antenna experience preferred.
Job Title: Antenna Design Engineer Location: Hybrid (3 days on-site) Reporting To: Engineering Manager / Technical Lead Overview We are looking for an experienced Antenna Design Engineer to support the development of high-performance electronic-scanning array antenna systems operating in the Ku-band frequency range (15–18 GHz), specifically focusing on radar applications. This role will involve the design, simulation, prototyping, and validation of advanced antenna solutions for next-generation sensing and communication systems. The ideal candidate will bring a solid grounding in RF engineering principles, practical antenna development experience, and a collaborative approach to multidisciplinary engineering. This is a long-term opportunity to develop new antenna designs and evolve our existing e-scan antennas with the aim of enhancing capabilities and performance while driving down the cost of manufacture. Key Responsibilities: * Design and develop antennas and antenna subsystems for Ku-band radar applications, including arrays, reflectors, planar and meta-structures. * Perform electromagnetic (EM) simulation and modelling using industry-standard tools (e.g. EMPRO, ADS, CST, HFSS, FEKO). * Translate system-level requirements into antenna specifications and detailed designs. * Conduct performance optimisation for gain, bandwidth, efficiency, beam shaping, and sidelobe levels. * Support prototyping and manufacturing activities including fabrication oversight and test setup definition. * Carry out antenna measurements (e.g., anechoic chamber testing, near-field/far-field measurements) and analyse results. * Collaborate with RF, mechanical, and systems engineering teams to ensure integration and performance compliance. * Contribute to design reviews, technical documentation, and verification reports. * Stay up to date with advances in antenna technologies, materials, and design methodologies. Key Requirements: * Degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline. * Proven experience designing and developing RF/microwave antennas. * Strong understanding of electromagnetic theory, transmission lines, and RF propagation. * Experience with antenna simulation tools * Familiarity with Ku-band or adjacent microwave frequency ranges (e.g., X-band, Ka-band). * Practical experience with antenna measurement techniques and RF test equipment (e.g., VNAs, spectrum analysers). * Ability to interpret and analyse complex technical data. * Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail. Desirable Experience * Experience working on radar systems or advanced communications systems. * Exposure to advanced antenna techniques such as phased arrays, beamforming techniques * Experience using Matlab, Systemvue and Solidworks Interface * Familiarity with meta-material or meta-surface-based antenna designs at microwave frequencies * Understanding of manufacturing considerations for high-frequency antenna structures. Personal Attributes * Effective communicator with the ability to work across multidisciplinary teams. * Proactive and self-motivated, with strong ownership of deliverables. * Comfortable balancing theoretical analysis with practical engineering constraints. * Adaptable and open to new technologies and approaches. Blighter Surveillance Systems Ltd designs and sells electronic scanning ground radar systems for national border security, counter-drone, perimeter security and coastline security. Our radars have a reputation for performance and reliability, protecting lives and critical assets worldwide. As an SME, we are able to develop and adapt our designs quickly in response to user requirements. Based in Great Chesterford just south of Cambridge, we are easy to reach by car and only two minutes' walk from the nearest rail station Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed
Graduate design engineer apprenticeship employer: Blighter Surveillance Services Ltd
Blighter Surveillance Systems Ltd. is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation thrives and employee contributions are valued. With a strong focus on professional growth, employees benefit from hands-on experience in cutting-edge technology while enjoying a supportive hybrid work culture that promotes work-life balance. Located in Great Chesterford, just a stone's throw from Cambridge, the company provides easy access to a vibrant tech community and opportunities for collaboration.
Contact Details:
Blighter Surveillance Services Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate design engineer apprenticeship
✨Dive into Aerospace Community Events
Get involved with local aerospace engineering events and workshops. They're a great way for us to meet industry professionals and other apprentices. Plus, showing up gives us a leg up in the hiring game by understanding the latest trends and technologies!
✨Follow the Big Players
Keep a keen eye on companies like Blighter Surveillance Services Ltd for their apprenticeship opportunities. Many big firms announce openings through their social media or official websites, so it’s crucial that we stay connected to catch those early announcements!
✨Connect with University Career Services
Don’t forget to tap into your university’s career services. They often have exclusive connections with aerospace companies looking for apprentices. It's like having a backstage pass to opportunities tailored specifically for us!
✨Showcase Your Passion
Create a small portfolio showcasing any related projects, school work, or personal passion projects in aerospace engineering. This can impress potential employers like Blighter Surveillance Services Ltd and set us apart from other candidates. Let’s demonstrate our dedication right from the start!
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate design engineer apprenticeship
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In aerospace engineering, having a solid grasp of technical skills is vital. Make sure to highlight any relevant experience or coursework in your application. If you've worked on projects related to aerodynamics or propulsion systems, mention them prominently—it shows you’re not just about theory!
Passion for Problem-Solving:It’s all about having that knack for tackling challenges in aerospace. In your cover letter, don’t just state your interest; share a specific problem you've solved or a project you’ve worked on that required innovative thinking. This will set you apart and show your enthusiasm for the field.
Use Your CV to Detail Relevant Coursework:For an apprenticeship, your CV should list any coursework or projects related to aerospace engineering. Include detailed descriptions of projects, any programming languages you’ve learnt (like MATLAB), or software tools you’re comfortable with, as these can make you shine in the eyes of Blighter Surveillance Services Ltd.
Personal Connection to Aerospace:Don’t underestimate the power of a good personal story! In your cover letter, share what drew you to aerospace engineering and why you're excited about this apprenticeship with Blighter Surveillance Services Ltd. Whether it’s a childhood fascination with flight or a desire to work on sustainable aerospace solutions, let your passion show!
How to prepare for a job interview at Blighter Surveillance Services Ltd
✨Get Technical with Your Knowledge
Brush up on your aerospace engineering basics! We might get some technical questions or scenarios thrown at us, so knowing about aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and materials used in aircraft could really help us shine in the interview with Blighter Surveillance Services Ltd.
✨Showcase Your Passion for Aviation
As an apprentice, it's all about our motivation and eagerness to learn. Share projects or experiences, like model building, engineering clubs, or internships that show our passion for aerospace—this will impress Blighter Surveillance Services Ltd and show them we're ready to dive in.
✨Prepare for Practical Tests
Be ready for some hands-on assessments! In the aerospace industry, we might face practical tests that align with engineering principles. Familiarise ourselves with common tools and techniques used in the field before our interview with Blighter Surveillance Services Ltd.
✨Ask about Career Development
Got questions? Absolutely! We should ask about how Blighter Surveillance Services Ltd supports apprentices in their career paths. This shows our commitment and interest in long-term growth, which is a key factor in apprenticeships.
