Senior Spectrum Engineer RF measurement specialist – Baldock

About the team you’ll be part of 

Ofcom’s Spectrum Group manages the use of wireless spectrum throughout the UK to ensure that it is used efficiently. As the UK’s communications regulator we make spectrum available for new and innovative services such as next-generation mobile or satellite systems whilst ensuring that existing solutions like Wi-Fi and radio can continue to operate.   

The role sits within the Spectrum Engineering Systems and Measurement team, part of the Spectrum Group. We provide high-quality technical modelling, advice and measurements to inform Ofcom’s spectrum policy and management decisions and subsequent implementation.  We represent the UK in international groups to influence the future of spectrum management and technology. Our skilled Engineering team includes a wide range of technical experts from varied backgrounds, and we benefit from the different perspectives they bring.  

Purpose of the Role 

This is an important role, helping our engineering and policy teams analyse current and future use of the wireless spectrum; interpret what this means for UK spectrum management; and recommend how Ofcom can best balance the interests of stakeholders and consumers through its measurement and policy work.  The role requires creativity and insight to develop measurement solutions to understand how radio communication technologies such as mobile, fixed and satellite operate in different scenarios.  Given Ofcom’s cross-spectrum remit, the work covers an exceptional range of topics including coexistence, interoperability, coverage, propagation, and spectrum monitoring.  

The role offers an exciting mix of RF lab measurements, field trials and associated data analysis, combined with wider engagement with policy teams, where your understanding of underlying systems will help support a solid basis for new and existing wireless services. You will work with colleagues across the organisation as well as stakeholders from the communications industry and international forums.  

This role is based at our Baldock Radio Station facilities near Stevenage, and while we support hybrid working in line with our corporate policy the work is predominantly laboratory based with some field travel, mainly in the UK.  

Your key responsibilities 

You will:  

• use your specialist RF measurement experience to scope, design and undertake complex RF lab and field measurements and associated data analysis to provide solid evidence which underpins our spectrum management work  

• take the lead in delivering on technical measurement projects, working with colleagues across the organisation as well as external stakeholders  

• help to develop our measurement capabilities, keeping abreast of new technology, test equipment and measurement methods 

• organise and participate in the maintenance and installation of monitoring equipment and antenna systems 

• prepare oral and written reports, meeting inputs and presentations, often at a senior level 

• use your extensive practical knowledge and experience to support and mentor less experienced members of the team 

• translate complex topics for non-technical audiences  

• manage the necessary quality assurance, asset management, equipment calibration, procurement and project governance of your projects 

• have the opportunity to represent Ofcom and the UK at national and international technical standards bodies   

The skills, knowledge and experience you will need for success 

Technical knowledge and experience   

• You will have extensive experience working across a range of different RF frequencies and technologies 

• Practical technical measurement expertise in planning and undertaking radio equipment test; complex monitoring campaigns; field trials; and using RF or EMC measurement equipment   

• Ability to translate your knowledge into other bands, different modulation types and a variety of equipment systems  

• Numerical skills, with the ability to understand varied datasets and extract key trends  

• Knowledge of installation and maintenance of specialised technical equipment   

• Evidence of technical knowledge on RF topics including coexistence, interoperability, coverage, propagation, and spectrum monitoring 

Behavioural attributes 

• Evidence and enthusiasm for technical problem solving and creative thinking 

• Scanning Horizons and Building Solutions – understand the bigger picture, identify and solve complex issues, using evidence-based methods to develop well-founded solutions 

• Articulating Ideas – express the context, results and conclusions of technical work, whether written or orally, in a clear and concise manner, ensuring messages are understood by everyone 

• Project Management – organise tasks or projects, manage your own and other engineering colleagues’ input, setting clear goals and keeping an eye on progress to ensure timely delivery 

• Forming Relationships – build and nurture positive relationships with people inside and outside the organisation 

• Empowering Development – Support the growth and development of others’ skills and strengths, through empowerment and mentorship 

Qualifications and Accreditations  

• You will have an engineering or other technical, scientific or numerical degree or possess an equivalent level of experience.