The team you’ll be a part of:
The Spectrum Systems and Engineering Policy team within Ofcom’s Spectrum Group delivers high-quality technical modelling, analysis, and measurements to understand interactions across wireless technologies, supporting policy decisions. We also represent the UK internationally to shape the future of spectrum management. Our team brings together diverse technical expertise, allowing us to approach challenges from multiple perspectives.
As a graduate spectrum engineer, you will embark on a two-year scheme of varied placements within our Spectrum Group covering roles in measurement, planning and regulatory initiatives, moving between projects and teams to ensure you are exposed to different technologies and challenges and grow your expertise. Your personal development is important to us, and you will receive support and training as you grow in your role.
The role:
The Graduate Spectrum Engineer is a two-year trainee role offering broad technical exposure within Ofcom’s Spectrum Group, preparing you to transition into a permanent Associate Spectrum Engineer position. You will support the effective management and regulation of radio frequency spectrum, assisting in spectrum planning and regulatory compliance to ensure that public and private spectrum users adhere to national and international standards. The role will also involve collaborating with stakeholders across the industry and government to resolve spectrum-related issues and ensure optimal usage across various sectors.
Throughout the program, you will contribute to projects on spectrum management, technical policy, standards, and measurements, rotating through different teams. Your work will help ensure efficient spectrum allocation, reliable communication services, and reinforce Ofcom’s leadership in global spectrum management.
To find out more about the Spectrum pathway, click here.
The role is based in London, with a rotation at our radio labs near Baldock, Hertfordshire. Hybrid/flexible working options are available.
Key responsibilities:
As part of the Spectrum Engineering team, you will join teams of colleagues to help enable new and innovative wireless services, working with a range of stakeholders and different industries. The role is an exciting mix of modelling and exploration combined with wider engagement at policy level. Recent projects have included analysis and measurements on drone connectivity, quality of mobile phone service, indoor WiFi demand, and more. You will be working in teams that:
- Use technical data and analytical techniques to assess the performance of wireless systems, to develop policies and to forecast future spectrum demand
- Develop and improve our modelling of how radio waves travel in different environments to assess coexistence between different wireless technologies
- Measure the impact of new technologies on the wireless environment to facilitate new options for spectrum sharing
- Carry out field and lab-based measurements using specialist test equipment to support Ofcom’s policy decisions such as establishing technical parameters and thresholds
- Liaise with industry and other regulators, both domestically and in other countries, to help shape spectrum policy and regulations
We are looking for a candidate that
- Is on track to obtain at least a 2:2 in an engineering discipline, science, mathematics or similar subject from any UK university
- Is curious, and has an aptitude for analytical thinking and problem solving
- Has strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Has computing, modelling, measurement or related skills and can describe complex and technical concepts to non-technical audiences
- Is ambitious, passionate and aspires to Ofcom’s values of Excellence, Collaboration, Agility, Respect and Empowerment
*You must have the Right to Work in the UK for the duration of the programme without requiring sponsorship.
Application Process
The application process consists of three stages:
- Initial application
- Blended Assessment
- Assessment Centre
Inclusivity Statement
Inclusivity is at the heart of what we do.
Ofcom has a clear mission: to make communications work for everyone. To be able to deliver on this, we want our organisation to reflect the diversity of background, experience, upbringing and thought that exists across the UK. We aim to recruit from the widest pool of candidates possible – no matter your gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or social background.
Where positions are listed as full-time, we remain open to reduced hours, part-time arrangements, job shares, and other flexible working options. From day one, we champion flexible work arrangements to accommodate individual needs.
We also warmly welcome applicants who are returning to the workforce after a break – for whatever reason. If you have taken time away and are ready to rejoin, we look forward to reviewing your application.
Our recruitment processes prioritise accessibility and inclusivity. If you need information in an alternative format or have specific preferences, please contact our recruitment team at ofcomcareers@ambertrack.co.uk.
As a Disability Confident employer, we offer an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for our advertised roles. When you apply, you can let us know if you would like your application to be considered under this scheme (sometimes known as ‘guaranteed interview scheme’). Find out more about the scheme here.
