At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop advanced RF and digital SDR solutions for satellite signals.
- Company: Join a collaborative KTP between PNTaaS Ltd and Heriot-Watt University.
- Benefits: Receive training, a £4,000 personal development budget, and potential for permanent position.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make an impact in the PNT industry while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: MSc, MEng, or PhD in electronics; experience in RF & Microwave Engineering.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are looking for an ambitious and motivated RF/digital engineer to join a collaborative Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) between PNTaaS Ltd and Heriot-Watt University. The role offers an opportunity to develop advanced RF and digital Software Defined Radio (SDR) solutions for satellite signals of opportunity, supporting Position, Navigation and Timing (PNT) systems in GNSS‑denied environments. Applicants will work from the PNTaaS premises on Heriot‑Watt’s Edinburgh Research Campus, collaborating with colleagues at Heriot‑Watt’s Riccarton campus. This is a fixed‑term appointment for 24 months, with a possibility of a permanent position at the end of the project.
As part of the KTP Associate role you will receive training on PNTaaS systems and processes, cohort training, a dedicated time for management training, and a £4,000 personal‑development budget.
Key Responsibilities- Hardware and firmware development for integrated RF front‑end solutions for Ku, Ka, and C band applications.
- RF PCB design, development and validation.
- Present technical work at internal and external meetings and conferences.
- Stay current with emerging technologies in RF, satellite communication and PNT systems.
- Take a leading role in project management and reporting; resource planning and budgeting; and stakeholder engagement and collaboration.
- Ensure alignment between academic innovation and industrial requirements.
- Contribute to broader activities across both organisations, including professional development initiatives, as appropriate.
- Actively participate in the activities of the wider business as a full member of the PNTaaS Team.
- Transfer and embed knowledge on antenna design to support the development of an alternative Position, Navigation and Timing service.
- Contribute to market growth for the business by embedding knowledge and expertise within the PNTaaS team on hands‑on antenna, RF and digital development, laboratory testing, and close collaboration with academic and industry teams.
- Good understanding of the processes and challenges associated with RF and Microwave hardware implementation.
- Practical experience of applying specialist skills and techniques required for the role.
- Effective communication, report preparation, and time management to meet deadlines.
- Flexibility to travel for meetings.
- Must be prepared to work as part of a team.
- Ability to contribute to method improvement where required.
- MSc, MEng, Ms or PhD in electronics or a related subject.
- Understanding of the PNT industry.
- Experience related to RF & Microwave Engineering, Wireless Communications, RF circuit design, Antenna design.
- Familiarity with RF modelling and circuit design tools such as CST Microwave Studio, Keysight ADS, and Matlab.
- Familiarity with embedded firmware development tools and programming languages including C/C++ and Python.
- Experience operating RF measurement and characterisation equipment such as vector network analysers, spectrum and signal analysers, RF signal generators and similar equipment.
- Experience in the development of RF Printed Circuit Boards.
- Familiarity with PCB design software like Altium Designer, KiCad or similar.
- Experience with satellite communication subsystems.
- Experience of collaborative research or working in a team.
- Experience working in industry is desirable, specifically within the electronic engineering sector.
RF/Digital SDR Integration Engineer (KTP Associate) employer: The Knowledge Transfer Network Limited
PNTaaS Ltd offers an exceptional opportunity for RF/Digital SDR Integration Engineers to thrive in a dynamic and innovative environment at the Heriot-Watt University Edinburgh Research Campus. With a strong emphasis on collaboration, professional development, and cutting-edge technology, employees benefit from a generous personal development budget and comprehensive training programmes, ensuring continuous growth and engagement in pioneering projects that shape the future of Position, Navigation and Timing systems. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to advancing satellite communication solutions in GNSS-denied environments.
Contact Details:
The Knowledge Transfer Network Limited Recruitment Team
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We think this is how you could land RF/Digital SDR Integration Engineer (KTP Associate)
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We think you need these skills to ace RF/Digital SDR Integration Engineer (KTP Associate)
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