Lead RF Architect

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YOUR MISSION

We are seeking a Senior RF system engineer to join a NewSpace tech startups network team with extensive experience in RF engineering and a strong background in supporting operational networked constellation design.

As a key contributor to our constellation RF systems architecture, you will work collaboratively with a multi-functional team of R&D and product validation engineers. Your expertise in RF design, simulation, analysis, characterization, integration, and testing will be crucial in achieving our mission.

Responsibilities include:

• Serving as an avionics subject matter expert for spacecraft communications networks, leading trade studies, and making technology investment decisions for long-term benefits.

• Taking accountability for product acceptance and space environment qualification, supported by the extended avionics test team.

• Developing, designing, integrating, and testing operational prototypes.

• Specializing in RF amplifier, PLL, antenna, and system design domains, including the integration of RF sub-systems into larger system-of-systems.

• Collaborating actively with flight software, on-board computing, and other subsystem experts to meet constellation system needs and constraints.

• Conceptualizing and defining requirements for future innovations.

• Automating testing procedures and mentoring junior team members.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Demonstrated hands-on experience in RF engineering and architectures, including working with VNAs, oscilloscopes, function generators, benchtop digital multimeters, and power supplies.

• Proven track record in developing electrical circuit boards and delivering functional products.

• Intimate knowledge of signal integrity, power and grounding schemes, and board layout principles.

• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, MATLAB, or other scripting/data analysis languages.

• Deep understanding of state-of-the-art communication and network protocols and standards, specifically within the 3GPP framework, and the ability to implement them in space-borne assets.

• Simulating end-to-end link budgets, considering variations in performance through Monte Carlo simulations and analyses.

• Identifying and engaging with suppliers and integrating solutions providers from traditional, New Space, and state-of-the-art sectors.

• Hands-on hardware testing experience using VSGs, VSAs, NWA, and oscilloscopes.

• Developing automated test scripts for efficient testing.

• Responsible for end-to-end system-of-systems constellation simulation budgets, utilizing optimized waveforms to meet high-performance mission requirements.

• Ability to reconcile simulations and tests, driving new product developments within the organization.

• Regularly communicating status updates and preparing test plans with detailed methodologies for automated testing.

YOUR PROFILE We are looking for individuals who excel in dealing with ambiguity, leveraging their experience to address challenges and navigate complex organizations during pivotal shifts.

Your profile should include:

• Solid knowledge of analog and digital communication systems, modulation techniques, and mixed signal design.

• Extensive experience across all aspects of RF communications, including EIRP, G/T, impedance mismatches, gains, and associated interdependencies.

• Proficiency in simulating constellation system architectures using tools like ADS, SystemVue, or Simulink, and conducting Monte Carlo analyses.

• Strong hands-on experience with amplifiers, phase shifters, filters, PLLs, mixers, and other relevant components for effective product selection.

• Understanding of interoperability, EMC, DCDC converters, microcontrollers, and FPGA.

• Experience in PCB design/layout and troubleshooting weaknesses and blind spots.

• Collaborative work with team members to execute hardware and software developments.

Nice to have skills:

• Deep understanding of LTE concepts, such as DL/UL scheduling, modulation, OFDM, multi-carrier operation, LTE power control, and beamforming fundamentals, as well as experience with ongoing 3GPP Release activities.

• Knowledge of 4G/5G air interfaces, call processing technologies, and network architecture, particularly focused on Radio Access Network (RAN).

• Understanding of wireless systems

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

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