Microwave Radiometer RF Engineer (Entry Level)

About the role

A Junior RF Microwave Radiometer Engineer position is open at Airbus Defence and Space in Getafe (Madrid). The selected candidate joins the Microwave Instrument Engineering Team, which develops microwave engineering for space-based Earth-observation missions. The role covers the definition, prototyping, validation and integration of high-precision passive microwave payloads, with structured mentorship, technical training and hands-on learning.

Key responsibilities

• Translate payload mission requirements into equipment specifications and build RF link/system budgets (noise figure, noise temperature, gain, dynamic range and sensitivity)
• Develop schematic and electromagnetic models for RF front-ends (receivers, LNAs, mixers, filters, detectors, antenna-coupling networks) using tools such as HFSS, ADS or CST Studio
• Assemble breadboards and prototypes and carry out laboratory characterization (S-parameters, phase stability, noise figure, gain)
• Support payload AIT and V&V campaigns, ensuring compliance with space flight margins
• Work with mechanical, thermal, power and digital engineering teams in trade-offs, design reviews and technology readiness milestones
• Write engineering memos, test plans and verification reports and help prepare technical proposals for future Earth Observation instruments

Required profile

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Telecommunications, RF/Microwave, Electrical Engineering or Physics
• Entry-level profile: internships, academic projects, master's thesis or initial professional experience in RF/microwave design or test
• Advanced English (written and spoken); fluent Spanish is valuable, French or German a plus

Required skills

• Microwave circuit design fundamentals (impedance matching, S-parameters, noise theory)
• Proficiency with RF simulation suites such as Keysight ADS, ANSYS HFSS or CST Studio
• Nice to have: Python or MATLAB, ECSS/ESA qualification standards, space environmental constraints, requirement management workflows

What we offer

• Permanent position with an attractive salary
• Vacation days plus additional days off, hybrid working where possible
• Life insurance, health insurance, employee stock options, retirement plan or study grants
• On-site facilities including a free canteen, kindergarten and medical office
• Upskilling opportunities and development in a multicultural environment