Position: DSP Engineer
Location: Northampton, UK

Blackstar are recruiting for a guitar playing, audio-specific DSP engineer to join our established R&D team. This is a key role within the department and our software team.

The company:
Launched in 2007, Blackstar is an internationally recognised and respected guitar amplification company. We are a team of musicians who are truly passionate about what we do, and who understand the importance of great tone.

Blackstar is based in Northampton, England, with over 100 years’ combined experience in guitar amplification design and production. Our team pioneer change in the industry and have a strong commitment to driving transformational innovation in all of our products. Blackstar products are the best in the world for design, technology and performance – we are setting the standard for the industry.

The role:
Due to continued business growth and large product roadmap, we are looking to appoint someone looking for a long-term career opportunity, who wants to help our team and business grow. This is an exciting and diverse position, where you will be primarily providing efficient DSP programming & testing in all Blackstar digital products, through full project life cycle – from early research and prototypes, through to mass production.

The duties and responsibilities will include, but are not limited to

• DSP algorithm development, implementation and optimisation
• This includes both high-level modelling (MATLAB, C/C++, VST plug-ins) and assembler-level optimisation on the target platforms
• Testing own code, both digitally and sonically on amps and products throughout the process.
• Assisting in project planning, scoping and problem solving in terms of software
• Other duties within skill set but not necessarily role scope as and when (creative design input, attending meetings etc.)

The ideally sought candidate will possess the following

• Qualified to degree level or above in a relevant subject
• Guitar player, with first-hand understanding of products in the wider Musical Instrument market
• Several years (minimum 2+) commercial experience as an Audio–specific DSP Engineer
• DSP development for embedded hardware
• Practical experience using the JUCE framework
• Experience in assembler-level optimisation (ARM Cortex M/SHARC) to build and test own work
• Experience in testing audio algorithms and audio processing blocks
• Excellent demonstrable Embedded C programming skills
• Excellent C++ (OOP) programming skills
• Solid understanding of fundamental DSP theory
• Critical listening experience
• Strong understanding of software engineering principles
• Understanding of/experience developing VST plugins

Additionally, sought Experience / Knowledge:

• Optimisation on out-of-order architectures
• Real-world modelling of audio systems
• Independent and self-reliant, being able to work without close supervision, in addition to having a team mentality
• Working within a KPI (Key Performance Indicator) structure

The Person fit:

• Able to work from Blackstar HQ in Northampton, UK, full-time, with the wider Blackstar R&D team
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent numerical and analytical skills
• Looking for a long-term career
• Highly organised
• Independent and self-reliant
• A flexible approach to work.
• Passion for the music industry
• Driven, Passionate and a definite go-getter

The Environment:
Blackstar is a unique environment; we are all musicians and the dress code is very relaxed. Our teams are experts in their field and we are incredibly passionate about our products and the industry as a whole. Most of our world-class team have worked in the music industry for a long time, and we are looking for candidates who wish to grow with the company and share in our current and future success. This role requires working at the Blackstar HQ with the R&D team in Northampton, UK, full-time.

Job Details

• Location: Northampton, Northamptonshire
• Ref No: DSP1703
• Job Type: Permanent
• Department: Research and Development

Position: Electronics Engineer (Audio)

Location: Northampton, Northamptonshire

Salary: Negotiable depending on experience

Due to continued year on year growth, Blackstar are looking to appoint a number of Audio Electronics Engineer at varying levels, to join our established team on a full-time permanent basis. These are important positions within the R&D team and you will be key in driving the development of new audio products from initial design, through to production and post-production maintenance.

Launched in 2007, Blackstar are an internationally recognised Audio Design and Amplification Company. We are a company of musicians who we are truly passionate about what we do and understand the importance of great tone – whether practicing at home or on stage in a live environment.

Blackstar are based in Northampton, England with over 100 years combined experience in guitar amplification design and production. We are totally committed to providing people with the ultimate tools for self-expression.

The duties and responsibilities will include, but not limited to:

• Assisting with the design, input and modification of electronic schematics, with guidance from the Chief Engineer and experienced team.
• Undertaking the building and testing of electronic prototypes.
• Advising and assisting with the sourcing of components for prototype production and testing.
• Writing and performing new audio product tests, recording and presenting results.
• Setting up Speaker test environments.
• Brainstorming new product ideas and technical requirements/ specifications.
• Communicating with UK and overseas teams on project-specific topics.
• Assisting other day-to day technical activities of the R&D department.
• Possible, infrequent overseas travel as required – this is not essential, however can be an exciting opportunity for an engineer to broaden their knowledge and experience.

The ideally sought candidate will possess the following:

• Degree qualified in electronics or similar engineering subject.
• 2+ years’ commercial experience in electronic design, ideally in audio electronics.
• Audio experience working with ADC/DAC (Analogue/Digital Converters) and associated components, Op-amps etc.
• High speed digital electronics experience, working with microcontrollers, DSPs etc.
• PCB layout experience.

The below skills would be beneficial, however not essential.

• Commercial proficiency using Altium design software.
• Appreciation of EMC and its considerations during design.
• Experience using Audio Precision test equipment.
• Experience with project coordination, helping to deliver a project from concept through to delivery.

The Person fit

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent numerical and analytical skills.
• Guitar or bass player is preferred.
• High level of attention to detail.
• Independent and self-reliant.
• A flexible approach to work.

Environment

• Blackstar is a very unique environment; we are all musicians and dress code is very relaxed.
• Our teams are experts in their field and we are incredibly passionate about our products and the industry as a whole.
• Most of our staff have worked in the industry for a long time and we are looking for candidates who wish to grow with the company and share in our current and future success.
• Office hours are 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday, with a willingness to work extra hours as and when required to achieve project deliverables to schedule.
• Flexible approach to working hours/environment where possible, according to business needs.

Please apply with an up-to-date CV and tailored cover letter for an immediate response. We are looking to hold interviews asap of which an initial telephone conversation would be the first step.

Position: Experienced Electronics Engineer (Audio)

Location: Northampton, Northamptonshire

Salary: Negotiable depending on experience

Due to continued year on year growth, Blackstar are looking to appoint a number of Audio Electronics Engineer at varying levels, to join our established team on a full-time permanent basis. These are important positions within the R&D team and you will be key in driving the development of new audio products from initial design, through to production and post-production maintenance.

Launched in 2007, Blackstar are an internationally recognised Audio Design and Amplification Company. We are a company of musicians who we are truly passionate about what we do and understand the importance of great tone – whether practicing at home or on stage in a live environment.

Blackstar are based in Northampton, England with over 100 years combined experience in guitar amplification design and production. We are totally committed to providing people with the ultimate tools for self-expression.

The duties and responsibilities will include, but not limited to:

• Project lead and design of system architecture.
• Responsible for all research and full development, through full life cycle, of assigned projects.
• Contributing towards new innovative design ideas to drive Blackstar’s technology forward.
• Undertaking the building and testing of electronic prototypes.
• Brainstorming new product ideas and technical requirements/ specifications.
• Communicating with UK and overseas teams on project-specific topics.
• Assisting other day-to day technical activities of the R&D department.
• Possible, infrequent overseas travel as required – this is not essential, however can be an exciting opportunity for an engineer to broaden their knowledge and experience.

The ideally sought candidate will possess the following:

• Degree qualified in electronics or similar engineering subject.
• 5+ years’ commercial experience in electronic design, ideally within audio electronics.
• Audio experience working with ADC/DAC (Analogue/Digital Converters) and associated components, Op-amps etc.
• High speed digital electronics experience, working with microcontrollers, DSPs etc.
• PCB layout and design experience.

The below skills would be beneficial, however not essential.

• Commercial proficiency using Altium design software.
• Appreciation of EMC and its considerations during design.
• Experience with project ownership, helping to deliver a project, on time and on cost, from initial concept through all sample stages and mass production.

The Person fit

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent numerical and analytical skills.
• Guitar or bass player is preferred.
• High level of attention to detail.
• Independent and self-reliant.
• A flexible approach to work.

Environment

• Blackstar is a very unique environment; we are a company of musicians and dress code is very relaxed.
• Our teams are experts in their field and we are incredibly passionate about our products and the industry as a whole.
• Most of our staff have worked in the industry for a long time and we are looking for candidates who wish to grow with the company and share in our current and future success.
• Office hours are 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday, with a willingness to work extra hours as and when required to achieve project deliverables to schedule.
• Flexible approach to working hours/environment where possible, according to business needs.

Please apply with an up-to-date CV and tailored cover letter for an immediate response. We are looking to hold interviews asap of which an initial telephone conversation would be the first step.

Position: Junior Project Coordinator

Location: Northampton, UK

Blackstar are recruiting for a guitar playing Junior Project Coordinator, or a graduate who is keen to move in to a Project Coordination/ Management role commercially.

This role isn’t for the feint hearted! It is an incredibly varied role and would suit someone who is driven by achieving targets, a strong team player, someone who is focussed on ‘the bigger company picture’ and passionate about helping the company grow.

Our project management team is the beating heart of the company, and although the role sits in our R&D team, we work closely across all Blackstar departments, regularly solving problems both inhouse and overseas – we go the extra mile to keep the projects on time and on cost whilst keeping a high standard of quality. Communication is key in this role and you cannot be afraid to ask the ‘why’ question and be confident in challenging others and process. Ideally you will have experience or knowledge of Prince2 or Agile project delivery methodologies.

The company:

Launched in 2007, Blackstar is an internationally recognised and respected guitar amplification company. We are a team of musicians who are truly passionate about what we do, and who understand the importance of great tone.

Blackstar is based in Northampton, England, with over 100 years’ combined experience in guitar amplification design and production. Our team pioneer change in the industry and have a strong commitment to driving transformational innovation in all of our products. Blackstar products are the best in the world for design, technology and performance – we are setting the standard for the industry.

The role:

Due to continued business growth and large product roadmap, we are looking to appoint a junior project coordinator to join our established team on a full-time basis. This is a very diverse position, but you will primarily be providing a key role in managing projects throughout their full life cycle, from whiteboard concept through, purchasing, prototype and mass production stages. This is an active role where collaboration with people across the Company and wider world is essential.

The duties and responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

Project Management

• The writing, maintenance and reporting of Microsoft project plans (including Gantt charts).
• Working with the R&D Project Manager on prioritisation and follow-up of day-to-day project tasks.
• Maintenance of project-related budgets and spends.
• The formulation and maintenance of the project risk register.
• Administrating the testing and documentation for new products (non-technical).
• Tracking and maintaining costs on the projects, helping to achieve our goals.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships both internally and externally to achieve project objectives.
• Coordinate resources in line with project plan to meet project requirements

Project Coordination

• The coordination and chasing of project information between the UK-based Blackstar departments (R&D, Marketing, Sales etc).
• The daily coordination of information and activities between the UK team and overseas engineering teams.

Technical Support

• Setting up and performing product sound tests.
• Sourcing local components for UK prototype production and testing.

Documentation

• Regular reports on all aspects of projects including timescales, budgets and costs.
• The organisation and filing of project-related documentation from internal and external sources
• Ensure that the QMS (Quality Management System) is followed and all project documentation if followed.

The ideally sought candidate will possess the following:

• Qualified to degree/ HND level or above in Electronics, Acoustics or Music Technology-based subjects
• Experience in a project management role or similar.
• Experience working in a target driven environment and working to deadlines.
• Be a guitar player, and confident with the setting up of amplifiers etc.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Confident working with numerical data and financial information.
• Incredibly organised.
• Experience working in a purchasing role, although not essential.
• Independent and self-reliant, being able to work without close supervision.
• Very methodical and a diligent record keeper
• A positive ‘can-do/ go getter’ attitude with a keen eye for detail

The below skills would be beneficial, however not essential:

• Experience with project ownership and project coordination.
• Adobe Photoshop / Illustrator design skills.
• Experience using Microsoft Project software.
• Knowledge of Agile or Prince2 management processes

The Person fit:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent numerical and analytical skills.
• Highly organised.
• High level of attention to detail.
• Independent and self-reliant.
• A flexible approach to work.
• Driven, Passionate and a definite go-getter.

The Environment:

Blackstar is a unique environment; we are all musicians and the dress code is very relaxed. Our teams are experts in their field and we are incredibly passionate about our products and the industry as a whole. Most of our world-class team have worked in the music industry for a long time, and we are looking for candidates who wish to grow with the company and share in our current and future success.

Office hours are 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday, with a willingness to work extra hours as and when required to achieve project deliverables to schedule. Flexible approach to working hours/environment where required, according to business needs.

If you share our passion, approach your work with pride, are driven by innovation, want to be the best and help to grow our global brand to its highest potential – we would love to hear from you.

Please apply with an up-to-date CV for an immediate response. We are looking to hold interviews ASAP, for which an initial telephone conversation would be the first step.

Position: Graduate Electronics Engineer

Location: Northampton, Northamptonshire

Salary: Negotiable depending on experience

Launched in 2007, Blackstar are an internationally recognised Audio Design and Amplification Company. We are a company of musicians who we are truly passionate about what we do and understand the importance of great tone – whether practicing at home or on stage in a live environment.

Blackstar are based in Northampton, England with over 100 years combined experience in guitar amplification design and production. We are totally committed to providing people with the ultimate tools for self-expression.

Due to continued business growth we are looking to appoint a Graduate Electronics Engineer to join our established team on a full-time permanent basis. This is an important position within the R&D team and you will be key in supporting the electronics design and project activities with the department.  This role has clear scope for progression within the team and company, with a view for the individual growing in to a project engineer and project lead role.

Overall purpose of the job:

• Support of electronic design and project activities within Blackstar’s established R&D team, from initial whiteboard sessions through all prototype stages and production. This is a key role in supporting the development of new products from concept through to production and post-production maintenance.

The duties and responsibilities will include, but not limited to:

Technical

• Assisting in day-to-day R&D new product development activities.
• Setting up and performing sound tests and competitor evaluations
• Assisting in the building and testing of prototypes
• Sourcing components for prototype production and testing
• Writing and performing new product test procedures and recording/presenting results
• The modification of electronics schematics, with guidance from the Design Engineers
• The modification of PCB artworks using CAD, with guidance from the Design Engineers
• General duties within the department, such as keeping laboratories and sound-room tidy and well stocked.

Documentation:

• Creation and maintenance of parts lists and associated documentation on assigned projects
• The maintenance and filing of approvals documentation

The ideally sought candidate will possess the following:

• Degree qualified in electronics or similar subject.
• 1-2 years’ experience of electronic and/or mechanical design in a consumer audio or electronics environment would be beneficial – but not essential.
• A demonstrable aptitude for electronics and have an interest in audio products, consumer electronics and circuitry or as a hobby.
• Knowledge of PCB design software would be desirable but not essential.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent numerical and analytical skills.
• Ideally a Bass or guitar player.
• High level of attention to detail Highly organised Independent and self-reliant A flexible approach to work

The Person fit

• A passion for the music industry
• Team player and work ethics
• Personable and outgoing nature
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Enthusiastic, conscientious, committed and dependable A ‘can-do’ attitude
• A structured engineering approach.
• Very methodical and diligent record keeper
• Ability to manage time effectively and prioritise appropriately.

Environment

• Blackstar is a people focussed and innovative company, we pride ourselves on our values. We work closely with all our staff and set a clear development and growth plan for individuals.
• Blackstar is a very unique environment; we are a company of musicians and dress code is very relaxed.
• Our teams are experts in their field and we are incredibly passionate about our products and the industry as a whole.
• Most of our staff have worked in the industry for a long time and we are looking for candidates who wish to grow with the company and share in our current and future success.
• Office hours are 8:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday, with a willingness to work extra hours as and when required to achieve project deliverables to schedule.
• Flexible approach to working hours/ environment where possible, according to business needs.

Please apply with an up to date CV and a tailor cover letter for an immediate response. We are looking to hold interviews asap of which an initial telephone conversation would be the first step.