RF Payload Engineer

RF Payload Engineer

Full-Time 50000 - 70000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Design and develop cutting-edge RF systems for military satellites.
  • Company: Join Lockheed Martin, a leader in secure military communications.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive pay, and comprehensive health benefits.
  • Other info: Be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of the North East space sector.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on national security while advancing your career in space technology.
  • Qualifications: Experience in RF systems design and a passion for innovation.

The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.

Job Description
Be part of a team delivering the next generation of secure military communications satellites for the UK Ministry of Defence. This work provides resilient, high‑performance connectivity for the UK, its allies and Defence personnel worldwide, playing a critical role in protecting national security as space becomes more contested and demand for secure data continues to grow.
Joining Lockheed Martin also means helping to shape significant investment in the North East space sector, with more than £100 million proposed to support high‑skill jobs, advanced manufacturing and long‑term economic growth. Opportunities include potential satellite manufacturing in County Durham and collaboration with NESST – the North East Space Skills and Technology Centre at Northumbria University – helping to build a strong pipeline of talent, learning and innovation.
This is your chance to work on mission‑critical technology, develop cutting‑edge skills and build a meaningful career, while delivering lasting impact for the region and the nation
The successful candidate will be responsible for the overall design of the RF payload of a satellite. They will develop detailed knowledge of the payload structure and its characteristics and be able to represent all aspects of the payload to the customer as part of our design authority.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Lockheed Martin is committed to upholding principles of equal opportunity, fostering a work environment that is aligned with our core values of integrity, respect, and exceptional performance. We recognize the importance of leveraging the unique talents and experiences of all our employees to drive innovation, deliver superior solutions, and maximize value for our customers. Our focus is on identifying the most qualified candidate for each role, regardless of their background. If you are interested in a position, we invite you to share how your skills and perspectives could bolster our team and encourage you to apply, even if you feel your qualifications do not fully meet all the job criteria outlined in our advertisement. Furthermore, Lockheed Martin is dedicated to ensuring our recruitment process is inclusive for all individuals. We are prepared to accommodate reasonable adjustments for applicants as needed. If you require assistance or adjustments to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact recruitment@global.lmco.com.
  • Architects and designs Radio Frequency systems and circuitry.
  • Designs and develops RF circuitry used in high frequency and microwave applications, including receivers, transmitters, antennas, and frequency synthesizers.
  • Responsible for hardware layout, component evaluation, prototype construction, and test.
  • Prepares test methods and specifications; analyses and tests RF hardware to verify performance characteristics.
  • Provides inputs to Product Development for formal documentation and supports manufacturing during the deliverable assembly and test phase.
  • In addition, develops RF System/Subsystem Architectures consisting of: antennas, transmitters, receivers, low noise amplifiers, high power amplifiers, RF conversion elements and transmission line equipment.
  • Performs link analysis and optimization, including effects of propagation medium and possible interference sources.
  • Develops and allocates RF system and subsystem functional and performance requirements.
  • Identifies and tracks RF technical performance measurements (TPMs).
  • Performs RF system/subsystem/component trade studies and CAIV analysis.
  • Supports Life Cycle Costs, reliability, availability, and maintainability analysis.
  • Develops innovative solutions to a range of complex problems that are consistent with organizational objectives.
  • Works without direction. Work is reviewed upon completion and is consistent with departmental objectives.
  • Guides major projects to completion and may function in leadership role.
  • Decisions are long-lasting and heavily influences the organization. Engages with senior personnel on significant matters.
  • Actively contributes to the development of new concepts.
  • Possesses full knowledge of industry and company practices, demonstrating expertise in the field and related disciplines.

Business Environment
By bringing together people that use their passion for purposeful innovation, at Lockheed Martin we keep people safe and solve the world's most complex challenges. Our people are some of the greatest minds in the industry and truly make Lockheed Martin a great place to work. With our employees as our priority, we provide career opportunities designed to propel development and boost agility. Our flexible schedules, competitive pay, and comprehensive benefits enable our employees to live a healthy, fulfilling life at and outside of work. At Lockheed Martin, we place an emphasis on empowering our employees by fostering innovation, integrity, and exemplifying the embodiment of corporate responsibility. Lockheed Martin Space is one of the four major business areas within Lockheed Martin. LMUK Space is at the forefront of Lockheed Martin’s International growth strategy including building exquisite satellites for a broad array of missions, ground station mission planning and command & control software products deployed to a diverse customer base as well as key capabilities in AI and space exploration and all underpinned by key strategic collaborations with universities in the UK. We not only deliver on current requirements, Lockheed Martin are always focused on the future requirements of this exciting and growing space domain which is a key enabler to our daily lives and future safety and security.
What we offer you
At Lockheed Martin our employees come first and therefore your physical, mental and financial wellbeing matters to us. On top of working in a highly supportive, friendly, respectful environment you can expect so much more.
We are an employer in support of and offering Flexible working with the option to also work a 4 day week depending on business requirements, where you have the option of Fridays off. We offer Competitive salaries alongside a flexible holiday entitlement.
We have a Wealth of benefits available to you that can be selected through our wellbeing tool upon commencement of employment. Just a few of our amazing benefits are shown below:
  • Private Medical Insurance
  • Competitive Pension
  • Dental
  • Critical Illness
  • Life Assurance
  • Travel Insurance
  • Employee discounts for top high street shops
  • Employee Assistance Program which includes free face to face counseling sessions, Legal advice, Financial advice, etc
  • Internal training and development alongside our Education assistance programmes
  • Reimbursement for a professional membership
  • Competitive policies that support flexibility and family leave inclusive of enhanced maternity leave

RF Payload Engineer employer: LM Careers

Lockheed Martin is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and integrity are at the forefront. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, we provide flexible working options, competitive salaries, and a comprehensive benefits package that includes private medical insurance and professional development opportunities. By joining our team in the North East, you will not only contribute to cutting-edge military communications technology but also play a vital role in shaping the future of the local space sector.

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Contact Details:

LM Careers Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land RF Payload Engineer

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their mission and values, especially how they relate to RF payload engineering. This will help you tailor your answers and show you're genuinely interested.

Tip Number 3

Practice your technical skills and be ready to discuss your past projects. Be specific about your contributions and the impact they had. This is your chance to shine and demonstrate your expertise in RF systems!

Tip Number 4

Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team at Lockheed Martin and contributing to exciting projects in the space sector.

We think you need these skills to ace RF Payload Engineer

RF System Design
Circuit Design
High Frequency Applications
Microwave Applications
Hardware Layout
Prototype Construction
Test Method Development

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the RF Payload Engineer role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the job description, especially in RF systems and satellite technology.

Showcase Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for the space sector and military communications. Share any projects or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to innovation and problem-solving in this field.

Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities of the role.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our official website. This ensures that your application is received directly by our recruitment team and gives you the best chance to stand out!

How to prepare for a job interview at LM Careers

Know Your RF Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of RF systems and circuitry. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on, especially those involving antennas, transmitters, and receivers. This will show that you have the technical expertise needed for the role.

Understand the Mission

Familiarise yourself with Lockheed Martin's mission in the space sector, particularly regarding military communications satellites. Being able to articulate how your skills align with their goals will demonstrate your genuine interest in the position and the company.

Prepare for Problem-Solving Questions

Expect to face questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Think of examples where you've developed innovative solutions to complex issues in RF design or testing. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers effectively.

Show Your Team Spirit

Lockheed Martin values collaboration, so be prepared to discuss how you've worked in teams before. Highlight any leadership roles you've taken on and how you contributed to the success of group projects, especially in high-stakes environments.