Role Overview:
The HPA Manufacturing Technician is responsible for the precise assembly, testing, and handling of High Power Amplifier (HPA) products within ETL’s manufacturing environment. This role requires an exceptional level of attention to detail, technical discipline, and safety awareness, due to the nature of working with high-power RF equipment, high-value components, and potentially hazardous systems.
The role ensures that all products are manufactured to the highest standards of quality, safety, and reliability, supporting ETL’s reputation for excellence in mission-critical satellite communications.
This is a hands-on, safety-critical role, with direct accountability for protecting both people and high-value company assets through disciplined working practices and adherence to defined processes.
The ideal candidate:
The ideal HPA Manufacturing Technician is a disciplined, detail-oriented professional who excels in a precision-driven, safety-critical manufacturing environment. They bring strong technical capability in electro-mechanical assembly and are comfortable working from detailed engineering instructions and procedures. With experience in handling sensitive or high-value components, they understand the importance of accuracy, traceability, and delivering right-first-time results to support high-performance, mission-critical products.
A standout candidate demonstrates an exceptional sense of responsibility, particularly when working with high-power, potentially hazardous systems and high-value assets. They consistently prioritise safety, apply meticulous care in handling components, and recognise the financial and operational risks associated with errors. Their working style is focused, reliable, and process-driven, balancing efficiency with precision while maintaining high standards of quality and compliance.
Aligned to ETL’s values, they collaborate effectively with colleagues, communicate clearly, and contribute positively to team success. They show curiosity and a willingness to improve processes, while maintaining a strong commitment to excellence through attention to detail and ownership of their work. Acting with integrity, they follow procedures rigorously, raise concerns transparently, and take accountability for outcomes, ensuring both people and products are protected at all times.
Key Accountabilities:
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Assemble HPA units in line with detailed work instructions and engineering specifications
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Handle high-value, sensitive components with the utmost care to prevent damage, loss, or performance degradation
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Work with high-power RF hardware and high-voltage systems using disciplined, controlled methods
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Carry out mechanical and electrical assembly tasks with exceptional precision
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Maintain strict adherence to build standards and quality requirements
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Perform functional testing and basic fault identification on assembled units
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Operate in a high-risk environment, maintaining strict compliance with safety protocols
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Exercise extreme duty of care when handling high-value components, recognising the financial and operational impact of errors
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Identify and report hazards, risks, or potential damage immediately
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Take personal responsibility for the safety of yourself, others, and the integrity of the product
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Ensure all work meets ETL’s quality standards, specifications, and documented procedures
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Complete manufacturing documentation accurately to support traceability of high-value assets
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Work closely with colleagues across production, engineering, and quality functions
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Provide feedback on build challenges, risks, or inefficiencies
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Contribute to a safety-first, quality-driven team culture
Desirables:
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Experience in electro-mechanical or electronic assembly
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Ability to work with precision tools and equipment
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Familiarity with high-voltage, RF, or high-power systems
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Ability to interpret engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, and build instructions
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Experience in testing and fault finding of technical equipment
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Background in high-specification manufacturing environments (e.g. aerospace, defence, electronics, communications)
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Experience working with high-value, sensitive, or safety-critical components
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Familiarity with quality standards and controlled processes (e.g. ISO, traceability)
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Experience working in a clean, controlled, or regulated environment
Location:
This role requires you to work on-site at our modern manufacturing facility in Hereford - Before applying, please make sure you can commute to Coldwell Radio Station, Madley, Herefordshire, HR2 9NE
Closing date: At ETL, we always prioritise efficiency in everything we do. With this in mind, we are looking to commence our interview process without delay and reserve the right to close the opening early should we receive suitable applications.
BPSS Compliant: Due to the nature of our work, all roles require candidates to be BPSS compliant.
VISA Sponsorship: Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.
Agency notice: We are sourcing suitable candidates for this role directly via our internal referral programme, direct marketing, and talent team.
Please note that we do not accept speculative CVs from external suppliers.
Looking for your next career move in a company that’s shaping the future of satellite communications?
At ETL Systems, we’ve been leading the way in RF design and manufacturing for over 40 years. Our technology powers critical satellite communications infrastructure used by the top 20 satellite operators and teleports worldwide, and 75% of NATO governments rely on our equipment to help protect their citizens.
We’re not just growing, we’re thriving. With three Queen’s Awards for Enterprise in International Trade, and recent acquisitions of Atlantic Microwave, SpacePath Communications, and IRT Technologies, we’ve expanded our capabilities across the full RF chain. This includes everything from antenna to modem, as well as high-power amplifiers and RF test equipment.
What truly sets us apart is our culture.
We are proudly recognised as a Great Place to Work (2024, 2025 & 2026) and named Best Workplace in Manufacturing, Production and Transportation (2025). Our success is built on strong values that shape how we work and grow together:
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Collaboration: We work as one team, united in purpose and committed to shared success.
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Innovation: We embrace curiosity and forward-thinking to drive meaningful progress.
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Excellence: We set ambitious standards and consistently deliver high-quality outcomes.
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Integrity: We act ethically, honestly and with professionalism in everything we do.
If you’re looking to join a company where your ideas are valued, your growth is supported, and your work makes a global impact, ETL Systems is the place for you.
ETL People benefits
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33 days' holiday per year (including UK bank holidays), rising to 38 days over your first five years’ service.
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Company‑funded Health Cash Plan (helping with everyday healthcare costs).
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Annual Bonus & Salary Review.
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Company Pension.
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Career development and training for all roles.
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ETL Employee Wellbeing Support:, free eye tests, free Employee Assistance Programme, GP anytime.
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ETL People Perks: discounts on shopping, holidays, gym membership, days out, cinema and dining.
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Buy and Sell Holiday Scheme.
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Free on‑site Employee Gym (HFD HQ) and subsidised Gym memberships via People Perks
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Subsidised on‑site employee Café (HFD HQ), with free refreshments for all employees
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Free onsite parking, car share scheme and EV charging.
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Casual Business Dress.
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Annual company events.
