At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a skilled team to develop and validate advanced RF communication systems through hands-on testing.
- Company: Innovative company at the forefront of space communications technology.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for career growth in a dynamic environment.
- Other info: Work alongside experts in a collaborative atmosphere with exciting technical challenges.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on cutting-edge projects that push engineering boundaries.
- Qualifications: Experience in RF communications and automated testing; strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 66000 £ per year.
With significant growth plans and a strong pipeline of future projects, this is an opportunity to join a business investing heavily in advanced space communications technology and engineering capability. Working at the forefront of RF communications and advanced electronics, you'll become part of a highly skilled team responsible for ensuring complex systems perform exactly as intended through rigorous integration, testing and verification activities.
As an Automated Test RF Engineer, you'll play a key role in the development and validation of sophisticated communications systems. The position combines hands‑on testing with system-level engineering, giving you the opportunity to work across the full integration and verification lifecycle. From developing automated test solutions and analysing performance data to troubleshooting technical issues and supporting major test campaigns, you'll be involved in work that has a direct impact on the success of highly advanced programmes.
You'll work alongside specialists in RF engineering, high-speed electronics and communications technology, using advanced test equipment and automated tools to assess system performance and reliability. The role offers plenty of technical variety and would suit someone who enjoys understanding how complete systems operate, rather than focusing solely on individual components. Although this is a senior-level position, the focus remains firmly on technical contribution rather than people management. You'll act as a subject matter expert within the team, helping to guide less experienced engineers while remaining hands‑on with testing, verification and problem-solving activities.
The business is experiencing substantial growth and has ambitious plans for the future, creating excellent opportunities for engineers looking to develop their careers within a technically challenging environment. Whether your background comes from space, defence, telecommunications or another high-technology sector, you'll find yourself working on projects that push engineering boundaries and deliver genuine technical challenges. The role can be based from either the Stevenage or Oxfordshire site, with a hybrid working pattern of four days per week on‑site.
Key Skills & Experience
- Experience within RF communications, telecommunications, defence, aerospace, space or another high-technology engineering environment
- Experience with automated test and verification environments (AIT)
- Strong understanding of RF communication systems and communications architectures
- Hands‑on experience using RF test equipment including VNAs, spectrum analysers, signal generators and related test equipment
- Experience conducting system integration, testing, verification and validation activities
- Python scripting for test automation and data analysis
- Experience working within Linux and Windows environments
- Strong fault‑finding, troubleshooting and analytical skills
- Experience creating technical documentation, test procedures and reports
- Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary engineering teams
- Experience working with RF payloads, FPGA technology, high-speed digital electronics or advanced communications systems would be advantageous
Please note: sponsorship is available for this position, subject to eligibility requirements.
Automated Test RF Engineer employer: UK Space Jobs
Lockheed Martin is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where employees are valued and supported in their professional growth. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, the company provides competitive salaries, flexible working options including a potential 4-day week, and a comprehensive benefits package that includes private medical insurance and educational assistance. Located in the North East, Lockheed Martin is at the forefront of advancing the space sector, providing unique opportunities for collaboration and innovation while contributing to national security.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Automated Test RF Engineer
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Automated Test RF Engineer role you’re after at UK Space Jobs.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at UK Space Jobs a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at UK Space Jobs.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Automated Test RF Engineer at UK Space Jobs, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Automated Test RF Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Automated Test RF Engineer, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at UK Space Jobs a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to UK Space Jobs specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Space Jobs
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with UK Space Jobs, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like UK Space Jobs want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.