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ICEYE is building a space-based RF constellation (100 MHz to 30 GHz) alongside its SAR fleet. As an RF Test Engineer in the Experimentation Lab in Valencia, you will be one of the first engineers in the lab, directly influencing how ICEYE develops and validates RF signal capture and playback capabilities for satellite constellation testing.
Your responsibilities include:
- Capture real emissions from marine radars, AIS and ADS-B transponders, satcom terminals, and partner equipment in a controlled, screened setup, recording at appropriate bandwidth, dynamic range and timing accuracy. Extend this to field and airborne collection campaigns.
- Characterize signal captures by converting raw recordings into library entries with I/Q data in documented formats (SigMF or equivalent), measured parameters (PRI, pulse width, scan, chirp, hopping, modulation), metadata and truth values for reuse.
- Build the generate and playback chain by specifying, integrating and calibrating RF record and playback systems (SDRs, vector signal generators, arbitrary waveform generators, multi-channel playback) from single emitters to dense scenes.
- Build the channel simulator path applying per-satellite delay, Doppler, Doppler rate, path loss, multipath and interference to recorded and synthetic signals, phase-coherently across channels and driven by simulation software geometry.
- Develop test hardware and software including fixtures, RF interconnect, switching, attenuation and calibration paths, plus Python code for instrument control and automation.
- Feed the end-to-end loop by injecting signals into flatsat, receivers and processing chains, coordinating with simulation teams to align RF stimulus and simulated truth in time and frequency, and supporting algorithm validation campaigns.
- Ensure lawful and safe operations by working with regulators, site safety and partners on screened operation, test identities (MMSI, ICAO address) and RF exposure limits.
Success milestones: 6 months—first lab emitters (marine radar, AIS) captured, characterized and in library with playback repeatability; 12 months—multi-channel playback through channel simulator supporting algorithm validation and first field collection complete; 24 months—processing teams routinely use library and calibrated automated stimulus chain integrated into end-to-end lab loop.
Reports to Laboratory Lead & Test Architect. Permanent, hybrid role in Valencia.
REQUIREMENTS:
Must haves:
- Hands-on RF measurement and signal capture experience with spectrum and real-time signal analyzers, vector signal generators, SDRs and oscilloscopes, with ability to spot clipped, aliased or contaminated captures
- Experience building or integrating RF record and playback, signal generation or hardware-in-the-loop test systems
- Solid DSP fundamentals: sampling, I/Q, filtering, channelization, Doppler and timing effects, and how each appears in recordings
- Python (or equivalent) for instrument control, automation and analysis, with comfort in SCPI/VISA and SDR APIs
- Calibration discipline: reference planes, path loss and phase characterization, with defensible uncertainty
- Clear written and spoken English
Nice to haves:
- Radar, ELINT, ESM or EW background, especially with pulsed and frequency-agile emitters
- Experience with channel emulators or fading simulators (PROPSIM, Vertex) or home-built equivalent, and satellite or LEO link simulation
- Multi-channel phase-coherent systems, precision timing (GPSDO, PPS, White Rabbit) or TDOA/FDOA test
- GNU Radio, MATLAB, UHD, VITA 49, SigMF
- Microwave work above 18 GHz, anechoic and screened-room operation, EMC test
- Field collection campaigns from masts, vehicles or aircraft
- Eligibility for national security clearance
Note: Employment is subject to applicable security screening (including SUPO where required).
