At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the RF Design team with testing, tuning, and modifying RF PCBs and assemblies.
- Company: Join ETL Systems, a leader in satellite communications with a thriving culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, enhanced pension, health cash plan, and career development.
- Why this job: Make a global impact while working with cutting-edge RF technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in RF circuits, proficiency in test equipment, and scripting skills required.
- Other info: Great Place to Work certified with excellent growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Junior RF Engineer role at ETL Systems. Looking for your next career move in a company that’s shaping the future of satellite communications? At ETL Systems, we’ve been leading the way in RF design and manufacturing for over 35 years. Our technology powers critical satellite communications infrastructure used by the top 20 satellite operators and teleports worldwide, and 75% of NATO governments rely on our equipment to help protect their citizens.
We’re not just growing, we’re thriving. In addition to three Queen’s Awards for Enterprise in International Trade, and recent acquisitions of Atlantic Microwave, SpacePath Communications, and IRT Technologies, we’ve expanded our capabilities across the full RF chain. This includes everything from antenna to modem, as well as high‑power amplifiers and RF test equipment.
What truly sets us apart is our culture. We are proudly recognised as a Great Place to Work (2024, 2025 & 2026) and named Best Workplace in Manufacturing, Production and Transportation (2025). Our success is built on strong values that shape how we work and grow together:
- Collaboration: We work as one team, united in purpose and committed to shared success.
- Innovation: We embrace curiosity and forward‑thinking to drive meaningful progress.
- Excellence: We set ambitious standards and consistently deliver high‑quality outcomes.
- Integrity: We act ethically, honestly and with professionalism in everything we do.
If you’re looking to join a company where your ideas are valued, your growth is supported, and your work makes a global impact, ETL Systems is the place for you.
Role Overview
Working on‑site from our R&D offices in Rickmansworth, this hands‑on role is focused on supporting the RF Design team with new developments, primarily through testing, tuning, reworking, and modifying RF PCBs and assemblies. The responsibilities include maintaining the stock of components and consumables, assisting with test equipment calibration arrangements, and organising the RF laboratory. The role involves various support tasks within the RF engineering team, including building and testing boards, modules, and chassis.
Key Accountabilities
- Support the RF team with maintaining the lab area.
- Organise storage of development hardware.
- Arrange ordering of equipment, parts and lab supplies as necessary.
- Ensure test and rework benches are suitably equipped and maintained.
- Keep the lab area tidy.
- Ensure all lab equipment is functional and arrange repair as necessary.
- Assist with annual calibration of lab equipment (VNAs etc).
- Modify boards to IPC-610.
- Test and measure RF PCBs and their assemblies using VNA, oscilloscope, spectrum analyser, etc.
- Set up and operate test equipment to evaluate RF products and assemblies under different environmental conditions.
- Construct and assemble prototype boards and chassis.
- Construct wiring looms.
Our ideal candidate will have previous experience in the construction and testing of RF circuits or similar devices. The ability to read schematic and PCB layout diagrams accurately is essential, as is the ability to follow test procedures and document results meticulously. Proficiency in using RF/Electronic test equipment, such as VNAs, spectrum analysers, signal generators, power meters, oscilloscopes, and DVMs/DMMs, is required. Additionally, the candidate should have experience in writing and editing Python and LabVIEW scripts to control test equipment and run automated testing. While some experience with mechanical modification is a plus, it is not essential. Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) or similar software is necessary.
Closing date: At ETL, we always prioritise efficiency in everything we do. With this in mind, we are looking to commence our interview process without delay and reserve the right to close the opening early should we receive suitable applications.
BPSS Compliant: Due to the nature of our work, all roles require candidates to be BPSS compliant.
VISA Sponsorship: ETL Systems is proud to be a Grade A VISA sponsor for skills in short supply within the UK. If you currently hold a Skilled Worker VISA or Graduate VISA, please submit your application. We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for applicants outside the UK for this position.
Agency notice: We are looking to source suitable candidates for this role through our internal referral programme, direct marketing, and talent team. Please note that we do not accept speculative CVs from external suppliers. Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at ETL Systems by 2x.
Benefits include:
- 25 days holidays plus UK bank holidays (increases to 30 days with tenure)
- Buy and sell holiday scheme
- Enhanced pension plan
- Company funded Health Cash Plan including coverage for dental, optical, GP & prescriptions
- Annual Bonus
- Life assurance
- Career development and training for all roles
- Free employee refreshments
- Casual business dress
- Annual company events
- ETL employee wellbeing support
- Free onsite parking, car share scheme and EV charging
- Cycle to work scheme
- Green Car Scheme
Junior RF Engineer in Rickmansworth employer: ETL Systems
Contact Detail:
ETL Systems Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior RF Engineer in Rickmansworth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at ETL Systems on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can double your chances of landing that interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the technical side! Brush up on your RF knowledge and be ready to discuss your experience with test equipment like VNAs and oscilloscopes. Show them you’re not just a candidate, but a future team member who’s ready to dive in.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a follow-up! After your interview, shoot a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining ETL Systems and being part of our innovative culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Junior RF Engineer in Rickmansworth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Junior RF Engineer role. Highlight relevant experience with RF circuits, testing, and any specific skills mentioned in the job description. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for satellite communications and how your background aligns with our values of collaboration and innovation. Let us know why you want to join ETL Systems!
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t forget to mention your proficiency with RF test equipment and any programming skills you have, like Python or LabVIEW. We love seeing candidates who can hit the ground running and contribute to our projects from day one.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our amazing team at ETL Systems!
How to prepare for a job interview at ETL Systems
✨Know Your RF Basics
Before heading into the interview, brush up on your RF fundamentals. Understand key concepts like impedance matching, signal integrity, and the use of test equipment such as VNAs and oscilloscopes. This will not only show your technical knowledge but also your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Showcase Your Hands-On Experience
Be ready to discuss any practical experience you have with RF circuits or similar devices. Bring examples of projects you've worked on, especially those involving PCB modifications or testing. This will help demonstrate your ability to contribute to the RF Design team right from the start.
✨Familiarise Yourself with ETL's Culture
ETL Systems values collaboration, innovation, and excellence. Research their recent projects and awards, and think about how your personal values align with theirs. During the interview, share how you can contribute to their culture and support their mission in satellite communications.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask your interviewers. Inquire about the specific challenges the RF team is currently facing or how they measure success in this role. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.