RF Microwave Engineer

RF Microwave Engineer

Company: Leonardo
Location: Southampton, United Kingdom (optional Bristol)
Contract type: Permanent
Employment type: Full‑time
Hybrid working: Hybrid
Seniority level: Mid‑Senior
Job function: Engineering and Information Technology
Industries: Defense and Space Manufacturing, Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing, Computer and Network Security

We are excited to recruit an experienced engineer with microwave engineering knowledge, familiar with complex electronic (ideally RF‑based) sensor systems. The role may be based in Southampton or Bristol and will focus on electronics design of RF and control subsystems for laboratory and aircraft concept demonstrators. You will provide technical support throughout the product lifecycle, including design implementation, integration and test, system trials and product delivery.

You will work within the Leonardo Airborne Communications product development group, interacting with partner organisations, sub‑contractors and potential customers.

• Lead delivery of work packages focused on analogue and RF electronics, covering inter‑vehicle data link design, system test and integration.
• Model proposed architectures to determine optimal solutions.
• Simulate RF designs.
• Document designs with configuration management within Teamcenter.
• Support laboratory hardware demonstrator development and testing.

• Practical experience in RF design of circuitry, ideally between DC and 30 GHz.
• Experience working with PCB layout personnel in an advisory capacity.
• Hands‑on experience using RF test and measurement equipment for development and debugging.
• Proficiency with RF and system modelling and simulation tools.
• Ability to produce concise technical reports detailing design solutions and implementation.
• Understanding and following business practices such as design reviews in a high‑technology defence environment.
• Degree in a relevant engineering or scientific discipline (Electronics Engineering preferred).
• Willingness to work closely with mechanical team members on electromechanical projects.

• Knowledge or experience of digital or mixed‑signal design.
• Experience in system‑level and sub‑system integration and debugging.
• Experience in the defence electronics sector.
• Chartered Engineer status or membership of a professional engineering institution.

This role requires pre‑employment screening under the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). Additional personnel security controls, including National Security Vetting (NSV), may apply (e.g., Security Check or Developed Vetting). For more details, visit our security & vetting page.

• Generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi‑days each year.
• Company‑funded pension scheme with up to 15 % employer contribution.
• Comprehensive wellbeing program: mental health support, financial advice, and inclusive employee networks.
• Bonus scheme for all employees at management level and below.
• Free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and Linked In Learning.
• Referral programme with financial rewards.
• Tailored perks allowing up to £500 annually on flexible benefits.
• Flexible hours with hybrid working options.

Apply now to be part of a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security, shaping innovation and enhancing safety worldwide. Leonardo values inclusivity and diversity, and we welcome applicants with accessibility requirements to let us know how we can support the recruitment process.