RF Engineer - Pioneering Autonomous Defence Systems

Permanent Employee, Full-time · Munich Area

Shape the Future of Autonomous Defence.

A dynamic and rapidly growing technology innovator at the forefront of autonomous systems development for defence applications is seeking a talented and driven RF Engineer (m/f/d) to join our expanding team in the Munich area. You will play a crucial role in designing, developing, and integrating cutting-edge RF and wireless communication systems for our next-generation unmanned platforms. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute directly to impactful technologies that bolster the security of allied nations.

Key Responsibilities:

Design and Integration: Select, design, and integrate a range of RF hardware, including Software Defined Radios (SDRs), antennas, filters, Low Noise Amplifiers (LNAs), power amplifiers, and front-end modules.
System Requirements: Define system-level RF performance requirements, ensuring adherence to stringent environmental and regulatory standards relevant to defence applications.
Communication Architectures: Develop robust and secure communication architectures for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) command and control, telemetry, and high-bandwidth payload data transfer.
Electronic Warfare Support: Contribute to the design and integration of Electronic Warfare (EW) capabilities, including signal detection, jamming, spoofing techniques, and RF hardening of systems.
Performance Analysis: Conduct detailed RF simulations, perform link budget calculations, and develop accurate range performance models.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with mechanical and systems engineers to optimize antenna placement, ensure Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) and Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) mitigation, and achieve Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) efficiency.
Component Evaluation: Evaluate and qualify both Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) and custom-designed RF components for integration into demanding military platforms.
Testing and Validation: Plan and execute comprehensive lab testing, range validation trials, and flight trials to verify the performance of RF systems.
Compliance and Documentation: Ensure strict compliance with relevant NATO STANAGs, MIL standards (e.g., MIL-STD-461, MIL-STD-464, MIL-STD-810), and applicable frequency allocation regulations. Contribute to safety, reliability, and certification documentation, including SC-Light UAS or equivalent certification pathways where relevant.

Essential Skills and Experience:

A strong degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, Telecommunications, or a closely related technical discipline.
Minimum of 5 years of proven experience in RF systems design, development, and integration. Experience within the aerospace, defence, or tactical communications sectors is highly advantageous.
In-depth knowledge and practical experience with Software Defined Radios (SDRs), advanced RF front-end design, and complex antenna system integration.
Comprehensive understanding of RF propagation, various modulation schemes, spectral efficiency principles, and effective interference mitigation techniques.
Hands-on experience with industry-standard RF test equipment (e.g., Vector Network Analyzers (VNAs), spectrum analyzers, signal generators) and proficiency in RF design and simulation tools (e.g., HFSS, CST, MATLAB).
Solid understanding of EMC/EMI principles and best practices for the ruggedization of RF systems for operation in challenging environmental conditions.
Familiarity with relevant military standards and NATO STANAGs pertaining to communication and electronic warfare systems.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, coupled with excellent technical documentation and communication skills.
Must be eligible to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance required for working within the defence sector.
Fluency in English is essential. Proficiency in German and/or other European languages is considered a valuable asset.

Join us in shaping the future of defence technology!