At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead RF test campaigns and ensure advanced hardware readiness for space applications.
- Company: SII UK, a leader in innovative space technology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on experience, and opportunities for career advancement.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Why this job: Join a cutting-edge team and contribute to exciting space projects.
- Qualifications: Strong RF design knowledge and experience with test equipment required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 70000 € per year.
Opportunity SII UK is seeking an experienced Senior RF Test & Qualification Engineer to support the design maturity, qualification, and transition to production of advanced RF receiver hardware for space applications. This role will take technical ownership of PCB and tile‑level qualification activities, definition and execution of environmental and RF test campaigns, and the delivery of formal qualification reports. The engineer will work closely with internal teams and external stakeholders to establish test infrastructure, develop new test routines, and provide hands‑on engineering support through qualification and early production phases.
Responsibilities
- Mature the design definition of complex RF PCB assemblies, ensuring readiness for qualification and production.
- Define and lead the Engineering Qualification Model (EQM) test campaign, including authoring PCB and tile‑level Qualification Test Plans.
- Deliver and commission a PCB Assembly Test Site within an RF and Environmental laboratory environment:
- Ensure lab infrastructure is compatible with RF receiver PCBs.
- Specify and integrate required test equipment.
- Develop and validate test software and detailed test procedures.
- Liaise with external engineering resources where specialist support is required.
- Execute and support the EQM tile qualification campaign, including:
- Pipe‑cleaning and validating new test routines and test setups.
- Providing hands‑on engineering support during initial testing.
- Supporting environmental testing activities such as vibration, thermal vacuum (TVAC), and EMC.
- Generate formal EQM Qualification Reports, including test results, analysis, non‑conformance investigation, and conclusions.
- Support the transition into production, including:
- Application of TRAC (or equivalent) processes.
- Technical support to Proto‑Flight and Flight Model builds.
Essential Skills and Experience
- Strong RF design and test knowledge, ideally up to 30 GHz.
- Proven competency with RF test equipment, such as:
- Vector Network Analyzers
- Signal generators
- Spectrum analyzers
- Power meters and associated RF instrumentation
- Understanding of RF receiver architectures and concepts such as amplitude and phase control within beam‑forming or networked RF assemblies.
- Ability to develop and debug test procedures and test software in a laboratory environment.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to diagnose test issues and drive technical resolution.
Desirable Skills
- Demonstrable experience working on space hardware qualification programmes.
- Practical experience delivering PCB‑level and unit‑level qualification testing.
- Background in supporting or leading environmental test campaigns (vibration, TVAC, EMC).
- Familiarity with aerospace / space industry processes and documentation standards.
- Experience acting as an Equipment Responsible Engineer (ERE) or equivalent technical authority.
- Experience supporting hardware through EQM to production transition is highly desirable.
Senior RF Test & Qualification Engineer in Portsmouth employer: Groupe SII
At SII UK, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration in the field of advanced RF technology for space applications. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through continuous training opportunities and hands-on experience with cutting-edge projects, all while enjoying a supportive culture that values teamwork and technical excellence. Located in a vibrant area, our state-of-the-art facilities provide the perfect backdrop for engineers to thrive and contribute to groundbreaking advancements in aerospace technology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior RF Test & Qualification Engineer in Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the RF and aerospace industries. Attend relevant events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your previous RF test projects and qualifications. This could include reports, test plans, or even videos of you in action. When you apply through our website, attach this portfolio to give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge. Be ready to discuss your experience with RF test equipment and environmental testing. Practise explaining complex concepts in simple terms, as you might need to communicate with non-technical stakeholders.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. Reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and mention something specific from the interview that excites you about the opportunity. It shows you’re genuinely interested and keeps you fresh in their minds.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior RF Test & Qualification Engineer in Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your RF design and test knowledge. We want to see your experience with RF test equipment and any relevant projects you've worked on, especially in space applications.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for the Senior RF Test & Qualification Engineer role. Share specific examples of your past work that align with our needs, like leading qualification campaigns or developing test procedures.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t forget to mention your hands-on experience with RF instrumentation and your ability to troubleshoot test issues. We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate strong analytical skills and technical resolution capabilities.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you into our system quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Groupe SII
✨Know Your RF Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your RF design and test knowledge, especially up to 30 GHz. Be ready to discuss specific RF test equipment like Vector Network Analyzers and Spectrum Analyzers, as well as your experience with RF receiver architectures. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically.
✨Showcase Your Hands-On Experience
Prepare to talk about your hands-on engineering support during qualification and production phases. Share examples of how you've executed EQM test campaigns or developed test procedures in a lab environment. Real-world examples will help demonstrate your capability and confidence in the role.
✨Understand the Qualification Process
Familiarise yourself with the Engineering Qualification Model (EQM) and be ready to discuss how you’ve contributed to PCB-level and unit-level qualification testing. Highlight any experience you have with environmental testing activities like vibration and thermal vacuum, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Communicate Effectively
Since you'll be liaising with internal teams and external stakeholders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare to explain complex technical concepts in a way that’s easy to understand. Good communication skills can set you apart from other candidates, especially in a collaborative environment.
