Systems integration and communications engineer

We are looking for a hands-on systems integration and communications engineer to support the development, integration and delivery of advanced electric and autonomous maritime systems. You will work across hardware, software and communications technologies to bring complex systems into reliable operational use. This role sits at the intersection of systems engineering, networking, communications, software and electrical integration. You will contribute across the full engineering lifecycle, from requirements definition through to testing, trials and operational deployment.

Key responsibilities

Systems integration and engineering
• Lead and support integration of hardware, software, control systems, networks,
sensors and communications equipment
• Define and manage system requirements, ensuring traceability through testing and
validation
• Develop system architectures, interface definitions and integration documentation
• Integrate onboard and remote communication systems (LOS, RF, Cellular, Satellite)
Networking & Communications
• Configure and support networking infrastructure (routers, switches, firewalls and
VPNs)
• Work with protocols such as Ethernet, CAN, Serial, NMEA and IP-based
communications
• Ensure secure, reliable connectivity between vessels and supporting infrastructure
Testing, Validation & Trials
• Plan and execute system testing, including bench, environmental, field and sea
trials
• Develop test procedures, acceptance criteria and validation activities
RAD Propulsion Ltd, Unit 2a, Universal Marina, Crableck Lane, Southampton, SO31 7ZN
• Analyse system data and logs to identify faults, performance issues and
improvement opportunities

Fault finding and operational support
• Diagnose and resolve issues across software, hardware, networking and control
systems
• Support commissioning, deployments and customer demonstrations
• Contribute to continuous improvement of system reliability, scalability and
performance

Documentation and collaboration
• Maintain integration records, configurations, network diagrams and test reports
• Support configuration control and release management processes
• Work closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams and act as a technical point
of contact for integration activities

Essential skills and experience
• Degree or equivalent experience in Systems, Electrical, Software, Communications
or related engineering discipline
• Experience in system integration, testing, commissioning or operational support
• Strong understanding of systems engineering and complex system interactions
• Practical knowledge of IP networking (TCP/IP, routing, switching, VLANs)
• Familiarity with communications technologies (RF, cellular, satellite)
• Experience working with sensors, embedded systems or control platforms
• Strong fault-finding and problem-solving skills across multiple domains
• Ability to interpret technical diagrams and maintain clear documentation

Desirable skills
• Experience in maritime, defence, robotics or autonomous systems
• Knowledge of marine communication protocols (e.g. NMEA, CAN)
• Familiarity with GNSS, radar or navigation sensors
• Programming or scripting experience (eg Python, bash, C++)
• Exposure to autonomy stacks (e.g. Ardupilot)
• Relevant networking certifications (e.g. CCNA)