Senior RF Design Engineer
Based in Stevenage, Bolton or Bristol
Salary up to £65,000 depending on experience
Bonus up to £2,500 | Paid overtime | Pension up to 14% | 25 days leave + up to 15 flexi days
We are recruiting for a Senior RF Design Engineer to join a leading defence engineering organisation working on the research, design and testing of advanced RF and microwave technology for integration into complex weapons systems.
This is a hands-on RF hardware role, ideal for an engineer who enjoys working across the full lifecycle, from design and simulation through to lab testing, fault-finding and supporting manufacture.
The Role
You will work on technically challenging defence projects, contributing directly to the design and verification of RF hardware used in demanding operational environments.
Key responsibilities include:
- Design and development of RF and microwave circuits across 30MHz–30GHz
- Design of LNAs, HPAs, filters, oscillators, synthesisers and modulators
- Hands-on soldering, fault-finding, board modification and rapid prototyping
- Conducting RF design proving tests and trials in an onsite laboratory
- Designing for harsh environments (EMC, vibration, thermal)
- Supporting products through manufacture (DFM / DFT)
- Producing clear technical documentation and communicating results to stakeholders
What We’re Looking For
Essential:
- Proven component-level RF design and testing experience
- Strong practical laboratory skills
- Confident use of RF test equipment:
- Spectrum Analysers
- Vector Network Analysers (VNAs)
- Power Meters
- Experience using RF design and layout tools (e.g. Microwave Office)
- Good knowledge of analogue, digital and power supply design
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team
Desirable:
- Experience in defence, aerospace or safety-critical environments
- Exposure to regulated, high-reliability products
- Manufacturing and qualification support experience
Working Arrangements
- Hybrid working supported, typically 3–4 days onsite due to classified work
- Flexible working welcomed, including part-time options
- Supportive, accommodating approach to individual working needs
Security & Eligibility (Non-negotiable)
Due to the nature of the work, applicants must be British Citizens or dual UK nationals with British citizenship and capable of achieving the required security clearance (BPSS as a minimum).
Benefits
- Salary up to £65,000 (depending on experience)
- Annual bonus up to £2,500
- Pension contributions up to 14%
- Paid overtime
- 25 days annual leave + up to 15 additional flexi leave days
- Enhanced parental leave packages
- Subsidised meals, free parking and excellent onsite facilities
- Strong focus on career development, inclusion and employee wellbeing
