Senior RF (Radio Frequency) Engineer

Flyer One VenturesMadrid, MadridOn-siteFull-timeSenior, 5–8 yearsListed 1 hour ago

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About this role

An early-stage European defence-tech company developing autonomous robotic systems for real-world operational environments and is looking for the Senior RF Engineer.

The team is building next-generation autonomy technology, with a current focus on aerial robotics and counter-drone systems. The work combines advanced algorithms, robotics, perception, control and physical hardware to create autonomous systems capable of operating reliably in complex and dynamic environments.

The role

Build and harden the wireless links that keep our platforms alive in contested, EW-contested spectrum — antenna to packet, bench to flight line. You own the RF chain end-to-end and shape our path to GNSS-denied operation.

What you'll do

- Design and build the RF link from platform to ground station — antenna selection, link budget, modulation, protocol stack.
- Prototype and validate on lab and field benches; take designs to the flight line and measure link budget, SNR and packet loss in real conditions.
- Implement interference-mitigation and resilience strategies for contested / EW spectrum.
- Drive future directions — GNSS-denied operation, sub-GHz alternatives, resilient localization.

What you'll bring

- Strong RF systems engineering — link budgets, antenna theory, propagation and modulation (OFDM, FSK, etc.).
- Hands-on DSP and SDR (GNU Radio, UHD or equivalent); C++ or Python for DSP and protocol work.
- A track record of building and fielding wireless links that have flown — not just simulated.
- Experience with EW or other contested-spectrum environments.

Bonus points

- EASA / NATO RF standards; custom RF board design; FPGA / RFSoC; sub-GHz (433 MHz), terrain-relative navigation.

What we offer

- Deep ownership on a small, senior, founder-led team building something that matters.
- Combat-relevant work that ships, meaningful equity, and Made-in-Europe impact.