Space Forge is a fast-growing in-space manufacturing company. We are first and foremost a materials company, developing new compound semiconductor substrates. We do this onboard the world’s first returnable and re-launchable satellite platform, the ForgeStar. The ForgeStar can support a wide array of missions, from in-space manufacturing of new materials and microgravity research to planetary landing systems and deep space exploration.
We are looking to hire a RF & Microwave Technologist to join our Semiconductor team.
What will you do?
- Be the Design authority for plasma CVD tool development
- The development of the plasma generation for current and future tools
- Fault-finding/troubleshooting in tools in the field (or space)
- Spread microwave expertise internally through the business by generating design rules and conducting training to relevant engineer
- Conduct FTO and prepare IP submissions based on plasma development work
Key responsibilities of the role:
- Complete the design and commissioning of the prototype plasma Chamber
- Complete the design and commissioning of the first CVD capable reactor
- Support iterative changes to the design as limits of the reactor are elucidated
Requirements
The range of skills we are looking for:
Technical skills:
- Experience in microwave generation and coupling, matching, resonance and optimisation in cavity-based systems
- Ideally experience of microwave plasma generation, but at least of design and development of microwave systems for industrial applications, e.g. heating
- Sound understanding of electromagnetics
- RF design experience
Soft skills:
- Hands-on experimental attitude
- Enthusiasm for R&D work
- Comfortable with hybrid work, but also occasional intense effort
If you have any of these skills please ensure they are obvious on your CV and you should highlight them in your application answers.
Benefits
Why Space Forge?
We believe in a future where our most polluting industries are built for sustainability and moved out of the planet’s atmosphere, and products returned to Earth for the benefit of all. Space is the next step for our manufacturing needs.
At Space Forge, we believe in creating the best possible workplace that suits every single person that joins us.
- Flexitime hours - 40 hours to be worked across Monday-Friday as fits both your needs and the needs of the role
- Hybrid remote working possible with nominally 1-2 days per week onsite in Cardiff or Swansea and as required
- 33 days holiday including bank holidays
- Pension scheme at 4% matched
- Charity or cause you’re passionate about? Up to 5 volunteering days a year to support the things closest to you and make an impact
- Super cool office and factory - the coffee is on us (and it’s certified carbon neutral too, our snazzy machine does anything from the humble americano to a superb flat white)
- Pizza pay day - okay, it’s not always pizza, but if you’re at the office on pay day, lunch is on us
- Your mental health is important! You’ll have access to Spill and Health Assured - an all-in-one mental health support platforms offering completely anonymous therapy sessions to our whole team
- Working with a passionate, friendly and highly motivated team
- Maternity / Paternity benefits beyond statutory
Salary range for this role: £40,000 - £60,000 per annum, depending on knowledge, experience and skills.
We are committed to building an inclusive workplace and that starts with hiring diversely. However you identify, and whatever background you bring with you, we welcome you to apply for a role at Space Forge.
If there are any adjustments that would help improve your experience with Space Forge, please do let us know when you apply.
Please note, the closing date is 17th June 2026.
