Senior RF Design Engineer
Wappenham, Northamptonshire | Hybrid Working (3 days onsite, 2 WFH) | Competitive Salary + Benefits
About My Client
My client is a globally recognized UK defense technology leader with 45+ years of innovation in advanced communications systems, long-range data links, and mission-critical RF solutions. Their systems support military and security operations in over 100 countries worldwide.
They're expanding their engineering team to develop next-generation products for defense, aerospace, and battlespace communications markets.
The Opportunity
An exciting opportunity for a Senior RF Design Engineer to join a small, dynamic team designing world-class RF systems. You'll own full-lifecycle RF circuit design—from architecture and simulation through PCB development, testing, and production support.
This is hands-on, technical RF engineering on cutting-edge defense technologies in a fast-paced but rewarding environment.
Key Responsibilities
RF Circuit Design:
* Design high-power wideband RF amplifiers (up to 200W) using GaN/LDMOS technology
* Develop RF filters, LNAs, upconverters, downconverters, and RF frontends
* Transmitter/receiver circuit design and antenna development
* RF system architecture and electromagnetic simulation
* PCB schematic capture, layout, and component creation using Altium Designer
Technical Leadership:
* Lead and contribute to design reviews (PDR, IDR, CDR)
* Verify designs against specifications
* Troubleshoot hardware/system issues across the business
* Mentor junior engineers assigned to your projects
* Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams
* Manage external design partners when required
* Support manufacturing and production as needed
Essential Requirements
Must Have (5+ years minimum):
* Proven RF circuit design experience (not just layout or systems-level work)
* High-power RF amplifier design using GaN, LDMOS, or similar technologies
* RF filter design from concept to implementation
* Transmitter/receiver circuit design experience
* LNA, upconverter, downconverter design expertise
* Proficiency with PCB design software (Altium preferred)
* Experience with RF simulation tools (AWR Microwave Office, Ansys HFSS, or similar)
* Strong analog and digital electronics knowledge
* Hands-on experience with RF test equipment (VNAs, spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes)
* British Citizen or ability to obtain SC security clearance
* Degree in Engineering or equivalent work experience