Senior Engineer, Antenna Test and Calibration, meoSphere

Senior Engineer, Antenna Test and Calibration, meoSphere

SES

Betzdorf, Luxembourg

Programme Description

We are developing the next generation of Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) and non-geostationary satellite communication systems, delivering secure connectivity services to governmental, enterprise, and commercial customers, as well as high-speed broadband to eliminate global coverage gaps.

To accelerate development timelines, reduce costs, and ensure the highest quality standards, we are internalizing key segments of the satellite supply chain. This includes the end-to-end integration of partner satellite platforms with advanced software-defined payloads, carried out within a state-of-the-art manufacturing and test environment.

The antenna subsystem plays a critical role in overall payload performance. Modern satellite architectures rely on highly complex direct radiating arrays and active phased antenna systems, combining RF front-end hardware, digital beamforming, and calibration capabilities across large-scale antenna element networks.

This role contributes to the development, integration, validation, and in-orbit performance assurance of advanced antenna subsystems, with a strong focus on calibration, measurement, and compliance with space standards (ESA/ECSS). The successful candidate will support the antenna system across its full lifecycle, from design validation and ground testing to in-orbit commissioning and operational optimization.

ROLE DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Engineer Antenna Test and Calibration to be responsible for antenna validation, measurement, and calibration activities across the full satellite lifecycle.

The candidate will act as the key interface between RF/Antenna teams, Integration & Test (AIT), and commissioning teams, ensuring seamless calibration and verification of complex antenna systems both on-ground and in-orbit.

This role combines deep RF hardware expertise, system engineering responsibility, and cross-functional coordination, with a strong focus on antenna calibration strategies, EMC/EMI compliance, and large-scale phased array systems under varying environmental conditions.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES/KEY RESULT AREAS

Antenna Validation, Measurement

• Define and execute antenna validation and calibration strategies for satellite payloads (Tx/Rx systems);
• Author antenna test plans and procedures for integration and test teams;
• Set up and lead anechoic chamber measurements for full antenna system characterization;
• Perform radiation pattern measurements, Gain, phase, and amplitude calibration, Array calibration for multi-element antenna systems;
• Perform comparison and correlation of EM simulation results vs. chamber measurement data, including model validation and tuning;
• Ensure consistency between simulation, ground measurements, and in-orbit performance;
• Define and oversee EMC/EMI testing strategies for complete antenna systems;
• Support qualification and acceptance reviews with proper documentation.

Satellite Antenna Calibration Ownership

• Act as Antenna Calibration Responsible across the entire satellite lifecycle;
• Define and apply calibration strategies to compensate thermal effects (e.g. temperature-dependent drift of gain, phase, and RF components);
• Define and implement on-ground and in-orbit calibration concepts for complex antenna arrays in alignment with payload integration and test team;
• Support in-orbit commissioning and calibration, including anomaly analysis and performance optimization.

QUALIFICATIONS & COMPENTENCIES

• Master’s degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering, RF/Microwave Engineering, or Telecommunications;
• 10+ years of experience in complex RF and antenna systems (preferably space applications);
• Fluency in English; other languages are an asset.

Technical Skills

• Strong expertise in:
  • Antenna validation, measurement, and calibration;
  • Phased array and active digital antenna systems;
  • RF system verification and performance analysis.
• Hands-on experience with EM simulation tools, CST Microwave Studio, Ansys HFSS;
• Experience in design and generation of multibeam configurations, including beam steering and optimization.
• Knowledge of:
  • Familiarity with digital beamforming systems and ASIC interfaces;
  • Knowledge of space qualification processes (thermal, radiation, EMC);
  • RF test equipment (VNA, spectrum analyzers, signal generators);
  • EMC/EMI constraints and validation;
  • System-level modelling and verification methods.
• Experience with Ka-band or higher frequency satellite systems;
• Involvement in in-orbit commissioning and calibration.

Soft Skills

• Strong system ownership and end-to-end thinking;
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills;
• Ability to coordinate across RF, software, AIT, and system engineering teams;
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills in complex environments.