At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop advanced RF subsystems for satellite communication and navigation systems.
- Company: Join Spire Global, a leader in space-powered data and analytics.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous time off, education assistance, and fitness reimbursement.
- Other info: Hybrid work model with opportunities for career growth and teamwork.
- Why this job: Make an impact in the exciting field of space technology and innovation.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in RF systems design with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.
Spire Global is a space‑powered data and analytics platform that offers unique insights and powerful solutions about Earth from the ultimate viewpoint – space – enabling organizations to act now and plan for the future with confidence, accuracy and speed. Leveraging its proprietary multi‑purpose satellite constellation and sophisticated predictive analytics, Spire gives commercial and government organizations an unprecedented competitive advantage to solve their toughest challenges, empowered with knowledge from space.
Spire Global is currently embarking on projects that range from the design of advanced satellite communication and navigation systems to RF monitoring constellations. As part of the development of next‑generation proprietary communication systems, we are seeking a Senior RF Engineer with expertise in RF systems design, RF transceivers, low‑noise and power amplifier design, antenna arrays, and a solid background in space‑based communications, navigation or RF monitoring systems. The ideal candidate will have hands‑on experience in high‑frequency, high‑power RF systems, ultra‑sensitive receiver systems, and strong simulation and analytical skills.
The candidate will work on designing, analysing, and optimising advanced RF subsystems for satellite and aerospace applications, and will need strong analytical and problem‑solving skills to thrive in a fast‑changing, dynamic and innovative environment.
Key Responsibilities- Contribute proactively to the design and development of RF subsystems for our next generation of satellite communication, navigation or RF monitoring systems.
- Component selection and circuit‑level design using PCB software (Altium preferred), along with simulation (CST, ADS preferred) where required, including transceivers for UHF, S‑, X‑ and Ka‑bands.
- Manage RF modules through production and test.
- Conduct RF module test and fault‑finding at bench level, environmental level (EMC and thermal vacuum testing) and spacecraft level.
- Lead RF testing, validation, and space qualification efforts for new and existing systems.
- Develop test plans and operational procedures.
- Provide technical consultancy support to software engineering, payloads, satellite operations and manufacturing teams.
- BSc, MSc or Ph.D. degree in Telecommunications, Microwave or RF Electronics Engineering.
- 5+ years of working experience in design, development and testing of RF systems.
- Hands‑on RF simulation, design and manufacturing experience and fault‑finding during test.
- PCB schematic capture and layout for RF circuits.
- Experience with laboratory or field RF testing with relevant technical equipment such as Network Analyzer, Signal Analyzer and Signal Generator.
- Measuring performance of passive and active circuits to provide data that backs up system requirements, including phase noise, compression points, associated chain losses and signal analysis.
- Tuning of RF circuits to achieve optimal performance.
- Proficient in simulation tools (ADS, CST, HFSS, MATLAB).
- Proven track record of promoting cooperation and teamwork.
- Demonstration of problem‑solving skills and solution‑oriented approaches when dealing with challenges.
- Flexibility to shifting priorities and operational requirements.
- Attention to detail, highly organised with clear communication skills.
- Proficiency in scripting languages and testing tools (Python preferred).
- Strong background in high‑frequency RF systems (e.g., Ku‑band, Ka‑band).
- End‑to‑end RF system analysis, simulation, and optimisation.
- Knowledge of frequency spectrum management.
- Knowledge of state‑of‑the‑art RF analog and high‑speed digital signal processing techniques and technologies using Xilinx/AMD MPSoC/RFSoC.
- Passive and active antenna design, and antenna measurement techniques.
- Experience of power supply design and EMI mitigation techniques.
- Experience of digital circuit design including microcontroller, FPGA and high‑speed transceivers.
Spire operates a hybrid work model, and this position will require you to work a minimum of three days per week in the office. Access to US export‑controlled software and/or technology may be required for this role. If needed, Spire will arrange the necessary licences – this is not something candidates need to have before applying.
Global Perks- Name Your Satellite Program (NYSP)
- Launch Attendance
- Generous Time Off Policy
- Education Assistance Program
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP)
- Family Leave
- Fitness Reimbursement
- Employee Referral Program
- Healthy snacks & beverages in every office
Spire is a global, equal‑opportunity employer and is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, colour, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or veteran status. All candidates who receive a conditional offer will be required to complete a background check, which may include criminal history and employment verification.
Senior RF Engineer in Glasgow employer: Spire Government
Spire Global is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Glasgow where innovation thrives. With a strong focus on employee growth through education assistance and generous time off policies, Spire fosters a collaborative culture that empowers engineers to contribute to cutting-edge satellite communication projects. The hybrid work model and unique perks, such as the Name Your Satellite Program, make it an attractive place for professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in the aerospace sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior RF Engineer in Glasgow
✨Join Aerospace Forums and Groups
Get involved in aerospace engineering forums and online communities, like the AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics). It's a great way to meet industry peers and stay updated on job openings and trends in the field.
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye on upcoming aerospace conferences and events where you can network with professionals and showcase your interest. Events like the Farnborough International Airshow are not just about flying machines; they're a goldmine for connections and potential job leads.
✨Spotlight Your Projects
Make sure to highlight any hands-on experience or projects on your portfolio that showcase your skills in aerospace engineering. Employers love seeing practical applications of theoretical knowledge. Show us what you've got!
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
When you find companies you want to work for, head straight to their careers page to apply for full-time roles, like the one with Spire Government for a Senior RF Engineer. This often puts your application in front of the right people faster than just waiting for job boards!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior RF Engineer in Glasgow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for the aerospace engineering role at Spire Government, make sure to highlight your technical expertise. Include specific software skills, like CAD tools or simulation software, and any relevant engineering projects you’ve worked on. This is your chance to really shine and showcase your engineering toolkit!
Don't Skip Your Projects!:Include a section in your CV dedicated to projects that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities in aerospace engineering. Whether it's a university project, an internship, or personal work, we love seeing how you’ve applied your skills in real-world scenarios. Make it clear what your role was and the impact of the project.
Show Your Passion in Your Cover Letter:At Spire Government, we're not just looking for skills – we want to know why you’re passionate about aerospace engineering. Use your cover letter to express what excites you about aviation technology and your career goals. Share any relevant experiences or inspirations that have led you to apply for this full-time position.
Tailor Your CV for Aerospace:Make sure your CV is specifically tailored to aerospace engineering. Focus on your education, any certifications, and your work experience, ensuring you highlight aspects that relate directly to the role. Don’t forget to mention any internships or apprenticeships that have given you hands-on experience.
How to prepare for a job interview at Spire Government
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Aerospace engineering is all about technical precision, so make sure you’re comfortable with key concepts like aerodynamics, propulsion, and materials science. We recommend going through any relevant coursework or projects you’ve worked on – these real-world examples can illustrate your understanding during the interview with Spire Government.
✨Showcase Your Projects with Confidence
Make sure to have a portfolio ready that details any significant projects you've worked on, whether it’s a group assignment or a personal endeavour. Be prepared to discuss the challenges you faced, the tools you used, like CAD software, and what you learned from the experience, as this will show your problem-solving skills in action.
✨Prepare for Technical Interviews
Expect some technical questions or even problem-solving exercises during your interview with Spire Government. Get familiar with design challenges or theoretical problems related to aerospace; this can range from calculating lift and drag forces to materials selection under stress. Practising these can help you feel more at ease when faced with tricky questions.
✨Emphasise Your Passion and Teamwork Skills
As a full-time candidate, it’s crucial to convey your passion for aerospace engineering and your ability to work in teams. Highlight any group projects or internships you've done, focusing on how you collaborated with others to achieve a goal. Companies like Spire Government love seeing candidates who not only have technical skills but also fit well within their team culture.