Systems Antenna Engineer

Purpose of the Role:

System Antenna Engineers are responsible for designing the phased array antenna beams for ALL.SPACE satellite terminals whose RF performance meets market needs. They work within the overall system architecture, designing specific antenna RF functionality via requirements, antenna RF modelling and chamber-based testing as appropriate.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Understand the overall system architecture and RF functionality:
• Understand the end-to-end system design and RF architecture
• Analyse and improve any existing system documentation
• Engaging with relevant stakeholders to refine the architecture
• Design Antenna Beam Patterns via:
• Use of Ansys HFSS modelling tools and plug-in scripts
• Matlab modelling of Antenna RF performance
• Python modelling as needed
• Simulation results generation, capture and visualisation
• Refine and improve Antenna Beam Patterns via:
• Running real-world RF chamber tests
• Investigate and understand the variances between simulation and chamber results
• Determine the consequences of manufacturing variances on RF performance
• Refine the models to reduce any variances found
• Produce specifications for the Hardware, Firmware and Software teams, using RF design conclusions to drive RF layout, FPGA and software design
• Detailed reporting on all activities, suitable to drive internal decision making, and inform external partners
• Management of High-Performance Compute servers
• Advise and support other engineering teams on Antenna testing scenarios and criteria

• Candidate must hold a degree in a Physics (or closely related) Bachelor, Masters, or Ph.D. program.

• Strong background and understanding of electromagnetics and antenna theory.
• Experience in high-performance numerical modeling of electromagnetic fields calculations
• Experience of Electronically steerable phased array antennas
• An in-depth knowledge of RF antenna implementation, in particular the RF, Digital and signal affecting components
• Working knowledge of best-in-class antenna modelling tools and approaches, using 3D full-wave electromagnetic modelling software (e.g. ANSYS HFSS, CST, XFDTD, COMSOL etc.)
• Strong skills in controlling and automating modelling tools using Matlab and Python
• Expert knowledge of Satellite Communications, constellations, modems, and related technologies
• Familiarity with the transformations and distinctions between near and far-fields, from far-fields to directivity, gain, realized gain, and antenna aperture efficiency
• Familiarity with RF, Digital, Software, Hardware, Mechanical and Thermal concerns
• Familiarity with software development practices such as source & version control
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills; ability to work well in a diverse environment, good cross-functional communication skills.
• Team-player, can-do attitude, and ability to work well in a group environment, while still contributing on an individual basis.
• High level of self-motivation, enjoys being challenged and learning new skills.
• Ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with changing needs and requirements; ability to meet tough goals under high pressure and manage your time effectively.