Lead RF Engineer

Lead technically complex RF programmes across aerospace, defence and space projects, combining hands‑on engineering with real leadership influence.

An advanced engineering organisation working on cutting‑edge aerospace, defence, and space platforms is seeking an experienced RF Engineering Lead to join its growing Engineering function. The team designs and delivers high‑performance RF and microwave systems used in mission‑critical environments where reliability, innovation, and engineering rigour are essential.

This role sits at the heart of complex product development programmes, taking ownership of RF system architecture, detailed design, and delivery across the full lifecycle — from concept and bid support through to production and in‑service support.

This position is ideal for an experienced senior or principal RF engineer who enjoys technical leadership as much as hands‑on problem solving. You’ll suit this role if you like influencing design direction, mentoring engineers, and acting as a technical authority while still staying close to the engineering detail. If you are motivated by technically challenging projects, long‑term product development, and seeing your designs move into real‑world, safety‑critical applications, this role offers both depth and progression.

• Senior technical leadership position with genuine design authority
• Work on complex RF, microwave, radar, telemetry, and communications systems
• Involvement across the full product lifecycle (concept to production)
• Leadership and line‑management responsibility within a specialist RF team
• Exposure to high‑reliability, regulated engineering environments
• Opportunity to influence engineering strategy, tools, and best practice
• Competitive salary package (commensurate with experience)
• Flexible working arrangements (subject to project requirements)
• Strong long‑term career development within advanced engineering programmes

• Eligibility for full security clearance is essential
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electronic Engineering or a closely related discipline
• Extensive experience in RF and microwave engineering, including:
  • RF circuit and subsystem design
  • System architecture definition, cascade analysis, and link budgets
  • Integration and verification of RF systems
  • Proven delivery of RF projects within aerospace, defence, space, or other high‑reliability sectors
  • Strong hands‑on experience with RF simulation and analysis tools such as ADS, AWR, HFSS, CST, MATLAB
  • Practical laboratory experience using RF test equipment (e.g. VNAs, spectrum analysers)
  • Experience leading technical teams and managing engineering activities
  • Familiarity with structured product development life cycles and regulated standards

• Experience acting as technical authority at design reviews (PDR, CDR, TRR)
• Background in radar, satellite communications, or telemetry systems
• Experience supporting NPI and transition from design to manufacture
• Involvement in bid, proposal, or customer‑facing technical activities
• Strong mentoring, coaching, and performance management capability
• Passion for continuous improvement in RF design methods and tools