Sr. Systems Validation Engineer (SerDes / Physical Layer) in Farnborough
Sr. Systems Validation Engineer (SerDes / Physical Layer)

Sr. Systems Validation Engineer (SerDes / Physical Layer) in Farnborough

Farnborough Full-Time 50000 - 70000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
MDA Space

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Validate high-speed SerDes PHY and execute test plans for cutting-edge satellite systems.
  • Company: Join MDA Space, a leader in satellite communications and space exploration.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, private healthcare, pension plans, and more.
  • Why this job: Be part of a team that pushes boundaries and makes a real impact in space technology.
  • Qualifications: Degree in Electronic/Computer Science Engineering and experience in telecommunications testing.
  • Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth and innovation.

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

Overview

About MDA Space

Building the space between proven and possible, MDA Space is a trusted mission partner to the global space industry. A robotics, satellite systems and Geointelligence pioneer with a 55-year+ story of world firsts and more than 450 missions, MDA Space is a global leader in communications satellites, Earth and space observation, and space exploration and infrastructure. The global MDA Space team of more than 3,800 space experts has the knowledge and know-how to turn an audacious customer vision into an achievable mission – bringing to bear a one-of-a-kind mix of experience, engineering excellence and wide-eyed wonder that’s been in our DNA since day one. For those who dream big and push boundaries on the ground and in the stars to change the world for the better, we’ll take you there.

Our Sat Connect IC business unit, a division of our Satellite Systems business, is a leading provider of ASICs, software, multibeam electronically steered antennas, and complete systems for communication satellites, as well as ground and airborne terminals. With locations in Israel, the UK, Bulgaria, and the US, we are a technology leader in satellite communication.

Role

Reporting to the Chip Validation Team Leader, the candidate will have the following responsibilities:

  • Validate high-speed SerDes PHY.
  • Execute test plans for:
  • Link bring-up
  • Equalization tuning
  • Verify functionality across:
    • PVT (Process, Voltage, Temperature)
    • Different data rates and bandwidths
  • Lab Bring-up & Measurement
  • Work hands-on with lab equipment:
    • Oscilloscopes (real-time / sampling)
    • BERT (Bit Error Rate Tester)
    • DCAPNAX
  • Perform:
    • Eye diagram measurements
    • Jitter tolerance testing
    • Tune PHY parameters
    • Enable debug hooks (register access, logging)
    • Able to test a Stressed eye
  • Validation of MDA Chipsets verifying functional and performance metrics
  • Development and ownership of chip and system test plan with collaboration of development and test teams
  • Development of test automation in Python for the chip and system test plans
  • Investigation of root cause of test case failures and providing corrective action in conjunction with the development teams
  • Execution, development and planning of Chip & System tests and contribute to the evolution of product quality for MDA ESMA silicon products
  • Support Test Management tools and continuous integration methodologies
  • Data analysis and post processing of data collected
  • Requirements

    • Bachelor/Master Degree in Electronic/Computer Science Engineering
    • Experience of testing Telecommunication or Satellite Systems
    • Experience of Chip and system testing, especially with Analog, RF and high speed communication blocks
    • Knowledge in time domain high speed links (SerDes) and associated equipment (BERT, DCA)
    • Proven experience in program language in an automation test environment (C/C++/Python etc.)
    • Very good debugging skills. Ability to investigate and root cause the issues observed
    • Experience in planning, estimating and development of system tests
    • Defect Tracking and Knowledge Management software (Atlassian JIRA and Confluence preferred)
    • Knowledge of testing Methodologies
    • Knowledge of operation of RF test equipment such as Spectrum Analysers, VNAs/PNA’s, Sig. Gens, power meters, high speed sampling scopes, etc.
    • Excellent Interpersonal skills
    • Knowledge on RF fundamentals and communications theory
    • Independent, self-motivated, team player and multitasking capabilities
    • Ability to work in a fast-paced and changing environment

    Comments/Special Considerations

    We are required to conduct a BPSS (Baseline Personnel Security Standard) screening in which we will check your:

    • Right to work: To confirm that you are entitled to take up the position as well as check your nationality and immigration status
    • Identity: Full ID check
    • Criminal records: Basic Disclosure
    • Employment history check: Confirmation of past three years of employment (minimum) history/activity
    • Reference checks

    Benefits Statement

    MDA Space provides competitive compensation and benefits packages for its employees at all locations. As a team member of MDA, you and your qualified dependents are eligible to participate in a benefit plan that ensures a comprehensive level of protection through competitive health care including; private healthcare, disability income protection, life insurance, pension plan; and an employee assistance program.

    Equal Opportunity Statement

    MDA Space is an equal opportunity employer prizing diversity and inclusion. We are committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity. If you require assistance and/or reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please feel free to notify us.

    Accommodations

    MDA Space is proud to provide accommodation(s) during the recruitment process. Should you require any accommodations, please indicate this on your application/cover letter and we will work with you to meet your accessibility needs.

    Sr. Systems Validation Engineer (SerDes / Physical Layer) in Farnborough employer: MDA Space

    MDA Space is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation meets collaboration. With a strong commitment to employee growth, competitive benefits including private healthcare and a pension plan, and a culture that values diversity and inclusion, MDA Space empowers its team of over 3,800 experts to push the boundaries of space technology. Located in the UK, this role provides a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking projects in satellite communication while enjoying a supportive and inclusive workplace.
    MDA Space

    Contact Detail:

    MDA Space Recruiting Team

    StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

    We think this is how you could land Sr. Systems Validation Engineer (SerDes / Physical Layer) in Farnborough

    ✨Tip Number 1

    Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at MDA Space on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.

    ✨Tip Number 2

    Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical skills. Since you're applying for a Sr. Systems Validation Engineer role, make sure you can talk confidently about SerDes, high-speed links, and testing methodologies. We want to see your expertise shine!

    ✨Tip Number 3

    Show off your problem-solving skills during interviews. Be ready to discuss past experiences where you tackled complex issues, especially in chip and system testing. We love candidates who can think on their feet!

    ✨Tip Number 4

    Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the MDA Space team.

    We think you need these skills to ace Sr. Systems Validation Engineer (SerDes / Physical Layer) in Farnborough

    High-speed SerDes PHY validation
    Test plan execution
    Link bring-up
    Equalization tuning
    PVT (Process, Voltage, Temperature) verification
    Lab equipment operation (Oscilloscopes, BERT, DCA)
    Eye diagram measurements
    Jitter tolerance testing
    Debugging skills
    Chip and system testing
    Automation test development (Python, C/C++)
    Defect tracking (Atlassian JIRA, Confluence)
    Knowledge of RF fundamentals and communications theory
    Interpersonal skills
    Ability to work in a fast-paced environment

    Some tips for your application 🫡

    Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Sr. Systems Validation Engineer role. Highlight your experience with SerDes, high-speed communication blocks, and any relevant projects that showcase your skills in testing and validation.

    Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about space technology and how your background aligns with MDA Space's mission. Don’t forget to mention specific experiences that relate to the job description.

    Show Off Your Technical Skills: Be sure to include your technical skills prominently. Mention your experience with Python for test automation, as well as any hands-on experience with lab equipment like oscilloscopes and BERTs. This will show us you’re ready to hit the ground running!

    Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to keep track of your application status directly. Plus, we love seeing applications come in through our own platform!

    How to prepare for a job interview at MDA Space

    ✨Know Your Tech Inside Out

    Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of SerDes, high-speed communication blocks, and the specific lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Being able to discuss your hands-on experience with oscilloscopes and BERTs will show that you're not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically.

    ✨Prepare for Technical Questions

    Expect to face technical questions related to chip validation and testing methodologies. Review common scenarios you might encounter, such as debugging issues or developing test plans. Practising how to articulate your thought process will help you stand out.

    ✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills

    Be ready to discuss past experiences where you identified root causes of test failures and implemented corrective actions. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and demonstrate your analytical skills.

    ✨Familiarise Yourself with Their Tools

    Since MDA Space uses tools like Atlassian JIRA and Confluence, it’s a good idea to get acquainted with these platforms if you haven't already. Mentioning your familiarity with these tools during the interview can give you an edge and show that you're ready to integrate smoothly into their workflow.

    Sr. Systems Validation Engineer (SerDes / Physical Layer) in Farnborough
    MDA Space
    Location: Farnborough

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