This permanent post sits in the Civil Aviation Authority's Communications, Navigation and Surveillance team, running frequency management for primary and secondary surveillance radar. The job holder assesses surveillance equipment applications and modifications, coordinates radar approvals with civil and military users, and acts as technical officer and secretary to the National IFF and SSR Committee. Hybrid working applies, and the role involves regular defence interaction. SC clearance needs five years' UK residency, and no visa sponsorship is offered.
What the job involves
- Act as NISC Technical Officer and secretary under CAP 761, supporting the National IFF and SSR Committee
- Assess and approve SSR/IFF systems for safe, efficient use of the 1030/1090MHz spectrum
- Monitor UK SSR performance and, with the Surveillance Policy Specialist, identify poorly performing equipment
- Coordinate civil and maritime PSR approvals and military PSR and SSR requirements, including trials and exercises
- Keep radar databases, internal records, certification, CAPs and forms up to date, including CAP 761
- Review and issue Mode S exemptions for airborne surveillance equipage with the Surveillance Policy Specialist
- Act as UK focal point for European allocation of Mode S interrogator codes (MICA) and surveillance maps
- Oversee UK ICAO 24-bit address codes, including for non-registered aircraft and portable EC devices, and liaise with ASSI on overseas territories and crown dependencies
- Represent the UK at Eurocontrol, national and military working groups, including as focal point for the N-SUR group
- Manage the 1090 environment using Eurocontrol tools, field work, specialist equipment and data analysis, and investigate causes with policy colleagues
- Oversee and maintain the UK elements of the European SSR monitoring network
- Liaise with CNS+S policy specialists, support direct state engagement, and maintain published information including CAA website content
What’s required
Qualifications
- Relevant degree or equivalent technical industry experience
Experience
- Experience working with civilian and military air traffic surveillance systems
Skills & knowledge
- In-depth knowledge of cooperative and non-cooperative air traffic surveillance systems and military IFF systems
- Knowledge of radio frequency engineering and/or radio propagation principles
- Attention to detail and accuracy with technical and sensitive information
- Excellent organisational skills, coordinating multiple conflicting demands from stakeholders
- Good communication for producing documents and briefings
Checks & eligibility
- SC security clearance, with five years' UK residency for vetting
- Declaration of interest if invited to interview
Other
- Collaborative teamworking with internal and external stakeholders nationally and internationally, with and without formal authority
Nice to have
- Understanding of SSR IFF signal structure to support radar analysis
- Experience of modern frequency management techniques
- Understanding of radio propagation and modelling tools such as ATDI HTZ
- Familiarity with Eurocontrol surveillance standards, including ESASSP
- Working knowledge of military and civilian surveillance manufacturers and equipment models
- Knowledge of ADS-B technology
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Frequency Management Specialist (Surveillance) in England employer: Civil Aviation Authority
The Civil Aviation Authority is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where you can make a significant impact on pension governance and strategy. With a strong focus on employee development, collaboration with leading external advisers, and a commitment to compliance and education, you'll find ample opportunities for growth and professional advancement. Located at the heart of the aviation sector, we foster a culture of innovation and inclusivity, making it a rewarding place to build your career.
