RF Engineering Lead

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The RF and Microwave Design Team deliver cutting-edge solutions across aerospace, defence, and space sectors, primarily focused on radar and telecommunication systems. As RF Engineering Lead, you will combine technical depth in RF engineering with leadership and project management responsibilities. You will lead a team of RF engineers, guide the design, development, and delivery of high-performance RF systems while ensure successful execution of projects from concept to production.

Main Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and development of advanced RF circuits, subsystems, and architectures aligned with customer requirements and product roadmaps.
• Define RF system architectures, cascade analyses, and link budgets for radar, telemetry, and communication systems.
• Oversee and perform linear and non-linear simulations using tools such as ADS, AWR Microwave Office, HFSS, CST, and MATLAB to validate designs before prototyping.
• Review and approve technical documentation, manufacturing packages, and engineering changes.
• Ensure RF designs are optimised for manufacturability, reliability, and environmental constraints (thermal, EMC, vibration).
• Act as technical lead in design reviews (PDR, CDR, TRR) and represent the RF discipline in cross-functional project teams.
• Line-manage a team of RF engineers and technicians, including coaching, mentoring, and performance management.
• Foster a culture of continuous technical improvement, collaboration, and knowledge sharing.
• Engage with customers during early project phases to understand technical needs and constraints.
• Support bids and proposals by providing RF input on capability, estimates, and risk assessments.
• Build links with external partners including suppliers, academia, and technology networks to stay ahead of emerging technologies.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Electronic Engineering (or equivalent experience).
• Strong foundation in RF and microwave engineering, including circuit design, electromagnetic theory, and system integration.
• Significant hands-on experience in simulation, prototyping, testing, and optimisation of RF systems.
• Proven track record in leading technical teams and delivering RF engineering projects.
• Familiarity with industry-standard tools (e.g., ADS, HFSS, CST, MATLAB, Altium) and RF test equipment (VNAs, spectrum analysers, etc.).
• Understanding of space and defence product development lifecycle and relevant quality/regulatory standards.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence and motivate a team.
• Project planning and coordination experience, preferably in a matrixed or cross-functional environment.
• Strong technical and communications skills.
• Self-motivated, creative and forward thinking.
• Ability to perform under pressure as an individual or as part of a team.
• Eligible to obtain UK Security Clearance in order to undertake related work in accordance with business needs.
• Strong technical and communications skills.
• Self-motivated, creative and forward thinking.
• Ability to perform under pressure as an individual or as part of a team.
• Customer facing/negotiation skills. Able to understand critical requirements.

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package that recognises the value you will bring to Spectrum Control. You will receive:

• Flexible working practices – we work a 9-day fortnight, offer hybrid working, flexitime, and work a half day Friday
• 25 days holiday (plus bank holidays) with the option to buy up to 5 additional days
• Health cash plan – cash back for everyday health expenses
• Pension scheme with 6% employer contributions
• Life assurance – 4 x annual salary
• Discount platform – retail, leisure, gym discounts and…