RF Communication Architect

SII Group; England; On-site; GBP 60,000 - GBP 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading digital services provider in the UK is looking for an RF Communications Architect responsible for defining and delivering spacecraft RF and optical communication systems. This role covers the full project lifecycle, supporting communication systems within aerospace and defense sectors. Candidates should have a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, strong RF engineering experience, and familiarity with project lifecycle phases. The position offers a competitive salary and various benefits, including professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Competitive Basic Salary

6% Employer Contribution

Private Medical Insurance

25 days holiday

Flexible working

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field with RF/Communications focus.
• Strong experience in RF systems engineering for space or safety-critical applications.
• Proven hardware and software design experience for RF systems.

Responsibilities

• Own and deliver the RF Engineering work package including hardware, models, and documentation.
• Act as the primary technical point of contact for RF and communications-related matters.
• Define RF communications requirements and architectures.

Skills

RF systems engineering experience

Fluent English

Project lifecycle experience

Hardware and software design

Education

Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering

Job description

SII Group delivers Digital Services, IT, Engineering, and Consulting to diverse industries, enabling digital transformation through our commitment to Growth, People, and CSR.

With over 16,000 professionals across 21 countries, we’re recognised as a “Great Place to Work” for fostering a high-trust culture. Our core values of Trust, Transparency, and Quality drive our work package delivery, ensuring we meet and exceed client expectations as a committed partner.

Since 2016, SII UK has supported top Aerospace & Defence, Aviation, Transportation, and Finance clients, empowering digital transformation with industry‑leading engineering expertise.

Let’s Tech Together is our promise to encourage innovation and teamwork. We support our engineers with development and a collaborative, inclusive environment where every voice is valued and empowered.

THE OPPORTUNITY

SII are seeking an RF Communications Architect who will be responsible for the definition, development, and delivery of spacecraft RF and optical communication systems, ensuring reliable ground‑to‑spacecraft and inter‑satellite communications. The role covers RF engineering aspects across the full project lifecycle (Phases A–E) and supports Functional Avionics in line with On Time, On Quality, On Cost (OTOQOC) objectives.

The role works closely with Functional Avionics, Digital Engineering, EMC, and system teams, and reports operationally to the Electrical Systems (ELSYS) Lead.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Own and deliver the RF Engineering work package, including hardware, models, firmware, and documentation
• Act as the primary technical point of contact for all RF and communications‑related matters
• Define RF communications requirements and architectures (functional and electrical), including RF and optical links
• Specify and manage RF and communications equipment, including:
  • TT&C Transponders
  • Data transmission systems (modulators, encoders)
  • RF amplifiers
  • Antenna systems
  • RF harnesses (coax, waveguide, fibre), filters, and switching assemblies
  • Laser Communication Terminals (LCT)
  • Special RF equipment (e.g. search & rescue receivers)
• Perform RF/optical link budget and system performance analyses
• Manage and co‑engineer with suppliers, including MAIT activities
• Support system‑level engineering, AIT, and launch campaign activities (TT&C and data downlink)
• Contribute to R&D, standardisation, and continuous improvement initiatives

SKILLS REQUIRED

Essential:

• Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field (RF/Communications focus)
• Strong experience in RF systems engineering for space or safety‑critical applications
• Proven hardware and software design experience for RF systems
• Experience working across project lifecycle phases (A–E)
• Fluent English; able to work effectively in international, multidisciplinary teams

Desirable:

• Hands‑on experience with satellite communications systems
• Project or work‑package management experience

BENEFITS

• Competitive Basic Salary
• 6% Employers Contribution + 6% as a salary sacrifice
• Private Medical Insurance, Life Cover and Income Protection
• 25 days holiday
• 10 days full sick pay per year
• Flexible working
• Cycle to Work & TechScheme
• Continuous professional development
• Corporate access to the Udemy platform

* If you're applying for a role requiring security clearance, please be aware that foreign or dual nationality is not an automatic bar, however certain posts may have restrictions which could affect those who do not have sole British nationality or who have personal connections with certain countries outside the UK.
http://www.groupe-sii.com/en