Communications Systems Engineer

About the role 
 We're seeking a highly skilled Communications Systems Engineer to join our team at our Gloucester site. This is an exciting opportunity to work on the design and development of Software-Defined Radio (SDR) systems, focusing on system architectures, interfaces, protocols, and network topography. You will play a pivotal role in delivering innovative solutions for Defence, Cyber, and Intelligence programmes. At Lockheed Martin, we offer a collaborative environment where you can thrive professionally while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. We provide flexible working hours, hybrid work options when possible, and a comprehensive benefits package to support both your career and personal life. As a Communications Systems Engineer, you’ll be responsible for designing, integrating, and optimizing SDR systems, ensuring they meet the requirements of complex mission environments. You’ll be involved in working with advanced communication architectures, industry protocols, and network topologies, making this role ideal for someone passionate about next-generation communication systems.

SDR System Architecture – Consult upon the design and optimization of Software-Defined Radio (SDR) system architectures for advanced communications applications, ensuring scalability, performance, and reliability. Interfaces & Protocols – Develop and implement interfaces and communication protocols to support robust, high-performance SDR systems. Network Topography – Design and model network topologies, ensuring seamless integration and efficient communication across diverse systems and platforms. System Integration – Collaborate with hardware and software teams to integrate SDR solutions into larger mission systems and ensure full system functionality. Standards Compliance – Ensure adherence to relevant industry standards and protocols to maintain interoperability and compliance with operational requirements. Testing & Validation – Conduct testing and validation of communication systems, verifying the correct operation of interfaces, protocols, and network structures. Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration – Work closely with engineers from other disciplines, including software, RF, and payload development teams, to integrate communication systems effectively into broader platforms.   If you’re passionate about designing cutting-edge communication systems and want to contribute to innovative solutions for critical Defence, Cyber, and Intelligence applications, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now  to join Lockheed Martin and take your career in communications systems engineering to the next level Required skills, qualifications and experience 
 Strong experience with SDR system architectures for communications applications. In-depth knowledge of communication interfaces, protocols, encoding schemes, and standards (e.g., TCP/IP, IEEE 802 standards, cellular mobile network standards, forward error correction schemes etc.). Experience in designing network topographies and link budgets to support complex communication systems. Familiarity with the integration of SDR systems and associated components. Proficiency with network modelling and system design tools. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on system performance and efficiency. Desired Skills 
 Experience with real-time communication systems and network management tools. Knowledge of OpenCPI, GnuRadio, Python, C/C++, and other SDR development tools. Experience working in Linux environments and using GitLab or similar version control tools. Background in working with Defence or Cyber communications systems. Familiarity with interoperability testing and network performance analysis.