RF Test Systems Engineer - Space

ALTEN Group; Portsmouth; On-site; GBP 80,000 - GBP 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A global engineering consultancy is looking for an RF Test Systems Engineer in Portsmouth to work in the aerospace sector. This role involves designing, building, and validating RF test systems, and requires proven experience in RF test system design, along with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering. The candidate should have strong knowledge of microwave theory and hands-on experience with relevant test hardware. This position offers competitive benefits, including private medical insurance and a flexible working environment.

Benefits

Private Medical Insurance

Cycle & Tech Scheme

Employee assistance programme

Life insurance & Pension Scheme

Social atmosphere, regular gatherings & team buildings

Flexible way of working

Qualifications

• Proven experience in RF test system design (L-band and above).
• Strong knowledge of microwave theory.
• Hands-on experience with microwave test hardware, including Network Analysers and Spectrum Analysers.

Responsibilities

• Derive detailed RF test system requirements from equipment specifications.
• Design RF and microwave test systems (L-band and above).
• Produce and maintain test solution documentation.

Skills

RF test system design (L-band and above)

Microwave theory

Microwave test hardware

System integration and validation

Technical specifications conversion

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering

Tools

Network Analysers

Spectrum Analysers

Job description

Overview

ALTEN is a global engineering and technology consultancy operating across over 35 countries worldwide. We partner with industry leaders across sectors including Aeronautics, Aerospace, Defence, Naval, Automotive, Energy, Rail, IT and many more to deliver innovative engineering solutions that drive technological advancement & support sustainable transformation.

Our teams of passionate and agile engineers work on cutting-edge projects that shape the future of technology and sustainability. At ALTEN, we empower talented engineers to innovate, solve complex challenges, and deliver impactful solutions that build tomorrow’s world—today.

Join us and start building tomorrow’s world today!

Job Description

As a RF test Systems Engineer, you will join our team in Portsmouth to support our activities within the Aerospace sector.

You will be responsible for defining and delivering RF test system solutions derived from detailed equipment specifications. The role involves designing, building, and validating RF test systems (L-band and above), supporting formal project reviews, and working closely with both project management and the RF Test Systems Team Lead.

Location: Portsmouth

On Site: Full time

Clearance: Clearable

Experience Level: Mid to Senior

Key Responsibilities

• Derive detailed RF test system requirements from equipment specifications
• Design RF and microwave test systems (L-band and above)
• Support system build, integration, and validation activities
• Produce and maintain test solution documentation
• Participate in formal design and project reviews
• Report progress and technical issues to Project Management and the RF Test Systems Team Lead

Qualifications

Required Skills

• Proven experience in RF test system design (L-band and above)
• Strong knowledge of microwave theory
• Hands-on experience with microwave test hardware, including Network Analysers and Spectrum Analysers
• Experience in system integration and validation
• Ability to translate technical specifications into robust test solutions

Required Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, or equivalent military experience
• Demonstrable experience designing and delivering RF test systems
• Strong understanding of engineering documentation and review processes

Desirable Skills

• Experience with software development or scripting for test systems
• Background in aerospace, Defence, or space programmes
• Familiarity with formal engineering lifecycle processes
• Experience working in project-led, multi-disciplinary environments

Additional Information

Why join us?

We bring together entrepreneurial, tech-driven people to deliver innovative solutions for leading companies.

At ALTEN, you’ll work on exciting projects, supported by ongoing learning, mentoring, and clear career development tailored to your goals.

Join a passionate team and help build tomorrow, today.

In short you get:

• A personalised career path and a rewarding management style
• A huge diversity of engineering projects and industries
• Private Medical Insurance
• Cycle & Tech Scheme
• Employee assistance programme
• Life insurance & Pension Scheme
• Social atmosphere, regular gatherings & team buildings
• Flexible way of working (role dependent)

We are proud to support the Armed Forces Covenant & actively encourage applications from members of the Armed Forces community, including veterans, reservists, service leavers, and military spouses/partners. We recognise the value of military skills and experience and are committed to ensuring that no applicant is unfairly disadvantaged during our recruitment and selection processes.

This role may require you to have or be willing to go through Security Clearance. As part of the onboarding process candidates will be asked to complete a Baseline Personnel Security Standard; details of the evidence required to apply may be found on the government website Gov.UK. If you are unable to meet this and any associated criteria, then your employment may be delayed, or rejected. Details of this will be discussed with you at interview.