🚀 Outside IR35 Contract – RF Engineer (mmWave / Ku & Ka Band) – 12 Months
We’re on the hunt for a Senior-level RF Engineer to take the lead on cutting-edge mmWave RF circuit design for mission-critical SATCOM systems. If you're an expert in RF engineering – particularly across the 10–30GHz range – and thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on environment, this opportunity is built for you. The key to this position is having both the system level design experience, transceiver/transmitter design and hands on RF design and test of the system.
This is a 12-month Outside IR35 contract with a leading technology client based just south of Henley-on-Thames. You’ll be joining a highly skilled engineering team working at the forefront of satellite communication, delivering RF subsystems with global reach and real-world impact.
🔧 What You’ll Be Doing:
* RF Subsystem Design – Architect and design Ku/Ka-band front-end modules (LNAs, PAs, filters, mixers, frequency converters) for next-gen SATCOM ground terminals.
* Simulation & Analysis – Run system analysis and propagation modelling using System Vue, ADS, and MATLAB.
* Prototyping & Testing – Take designs from schematic through to test and validation with VNAs, signal generators, satellite modems, and more.
* EM Simulation – Conduct high-fidelity simulations using HFSS, Keysight ADS, etc.
* Data-Driven Insight – Analyse and validate simulation and real-world data using MATLAB, Python, or similar tools.
* Collaborative Integration – Work closely with modem, antenna, mechanical and manufacturing teams to optimise at the system level.
* Documentation & Compliance – Create clear technical documentation and ensure all designs meet FCC, ITU, ETSI, EMC and ruggedisation standards.
✅ You’ll Need:
* 7–8+ years’ experience in RF/Microwave design – ideally for aerospace communications infrastructure
* Strong hands-on design experience across Ku and Ka bands (10–30GHz).
* Deep expertise in RF hardware (LNAs, mixers, VCOs, PAs, etc.) and performance optimisation (noise, linearity, impedance matching).
* Proficiency with RF test equipment: spectrum/network analysers, signal generators, etc.
* Simulation tool fluency: ADS, System Vue, MATLAB.
* Strong understanding of link budgets, phased arrays, and RF propagation.
* A knack for balancing high performance with DFM and cost-effectiveness.
đź’ˇ Nice to Have:
* RF PCB layout skills using Altium or equivalent.
* Familiarity with Python/MATLAB for automation and data processing.
* EM simulation experience (HFSS, CST).
đź“ŤLocation:
* Onsite role just south of Henley-on-Thames
* Commutable from Reading, Oxford, High Wycombe, Maidenhead, and surrounding areas
đź“… Contract Details:
* Length: 12 months (with potential to extend)
* Status: Outside IR35
* Start: ASAP / negotiable