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Communications Systems Engineer (SC Cleared) Bristol - 3 days a week onsite £Negotiable + Comprehensive Benefits Package This is an excellent opportunity for a systems-focused Communications Engineer to take ownership of the vital data links that keep Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) connected. Whether your background is in SDRs, Satcom, or Tactical Data Links, this role offers the chance to design end-to-end architectures that ensure seamless command and control (C2) in the most contested environments. This company is at the forefront of UAS innovation, developing platforms that must remain reachable across diverse and complex mission profiles. You will act as the bridge between high-level mission requirements and hardware implementation, selecting the right mix of RF and Military Bearers to ensure mission success and high-bandwidth telemetry. In this varied role, you will move from defining link budgets and sizing hardware (transceivers, antennas, modems) to leading the integration of LOS and BLOS systems. You will oversee the implementation of secure military waveforms and encryption, optimise networking stacks for low-latency aerial links, and lead "on-platform" interference testing to validate link performance. The ideal candidate will possess a background in flight safety and mission data quality, and should be a hands-on problem solver, comfortable troubleshooting RF interference or network dropouts in real-world environments while collaborating closely with Avionics and Airframe engineers. This is a fantastic opportunity to drive the communications roadmap for a next-generation UAS program. From bench-top HIL testing to ground range trials and flight campaigns, you will have the autonomy to define how our aircraft stay connected, ensuring they are never out of reach. The Role: Define RF/Satcom hardware sizing and end-to-end link budgets. Lead LOS/BLOS system integration and secure protocol optimisation. Oversee military-grade waveforms and cryptographic equipment compliance. Execute HIL, EMI/EMC, and flight test campaigns for connectivity. The Person: Previous experience in RF, antenna theory, and modulation schemes. Hands-on experience with SDRs, Satcom, and tactical data links. Preferably a degree in Electrical, Electronic, or Telecommunications Engineering. Must be eligible for UK SC Clearance. Reference Number: BBBH270459 Rise Technical Recruitment Ltd acts an employment agency for permanent roles and an employment business for temporary roles. The salary advertised is the bracket available for this position. The actual salary paid will be dependent on your level of experience, qualifications and skill set and will be decided by our client, the employer. Rise are not responsible or liable for any hiring decisions made by the end client. We are an equal opportunities company and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.