Principal rf engineer in stockton-on-tees, county durham

Our client is a global leader in the design and manufacture of advanced RF, microwave, and millimetre-wave components and subsystems, with a strong presence in County Durham, UK. Their products are widely used in wireless communication infrastructure and point-to-point communication systems.

They work with leading international OEMs as well as mobile network operators, delivering tailored RF solutions to meet complex performance requirements. Their long-term strategy is to remain at the forefront of RF electronics by leveraging proprietary technologies, engineering expertise, and strong global customer relationships.

Broadband Division

Our client's Broadband division is a world-class designer and manufacturer of microwave and millimetre-wave products for telecoms, defence, and security markets, based in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, UK. The business also provides build-to-print manufacturing services from its advanced, highly automated UK facility.

Key capabilities include:

• Design and manufacture of microwave and millimetre-wave transceiver modules
• Development of filters and diplexers
• Custom MMIC design for multi-chip modules and advanced packaging
• Design for manufacture and cost optimisation services
• High-precision hybrid and surface-mount manufacturing

The division benefits from vertically integrated MMIC design and manufacturing, enabling faster time-to-market and highly competitive high-frequency products. Customers benefit from the co-location of design and production at a world-class facility in Newton Aycliffe, UK, ensuring efficiency, quality, and scalability.

With strong quality processes, advanced automation, and proven delivery to over 60 countries, the business supports high-reliability, high-mix production across demanding sectors.

Job Overview

Our client is seeking a Principal RF Engineer to join their growing engineering team in County Durham, UK. This role offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge RF and mmWave products, from initial concept through to full production, within a state-of-the-art facility.

The successful Principal RF Engineer will play a key role in the design, development, and delivery of innovative solutions across telecommunications and defence applications.

Purpose of the Role

The Principal RF Engineer will be responsible for leading the design of RF and mmWave systems, ensuring performance, quality, cost, and manufacturability requirements are met. The role also involves providing technical leadership, supporting project delivery, and driving engineering best practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of RF/mmWave circuits, subsystems, and systems
• Take ownership of RF specifications, simulation, realisation, and validation
• Provide technical leadership and mentoring to engineering teams
• Conduct system line-up and tolerance analysis, ensuring design for manufacture
• Support component and MMIC selection, liaising with suppliers where required
• Collaborate closely with mechanical, electronics, PCB, manufacturing, and test teams
• Produce and review technical documentation, including design records and release data
• Lead design reviews, identifying and mitigating technical risks
• Support verification, validation, and reliability testing activitiesTroubleshoot and resolve technical issues during development and production
• Deliver designs in line with project timelines, cost targets, and technical requirements

Requirements

• Degree (or equivalent) in RF, Microwave, Electronics, or Communications Engineering
• Significant experience in RF/mmWave circuit or system design
• Strong proficiency with RF design tools such as ADS, CST, Microwave Office, or EMPro
• Solid understanding of microwave circuit design, system analysis, and design for manufacture
• Experience with transceivers, amplifiers, filters, or subsystem design is advantageous
• Proven ability to lead technical activities and mentor engineers
• Strong problem-solving skills with a practical engineering approach
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work across cross-functional teams

Benefits

• Private medical insurance
• Save As You Earn share scheme (£500 invested over 2 years at a discounted rate, held for 3 years)
• Pension scheme with up to 8% employer contribution (plus 2% match structure)
• Electric vehicle scheme (salary sacrifice)
• Cycle to work programme
• 15 days annual leave + bank holidays, with option to purchase 5 extra days
• 4x life assurance and income protection

Relocation Support

UK: Up to £5,000

International: Up to £8,000

Support covers relocation expenses such as removals, transport, and up to 3 months of temporary accommodation (excludes furniture/appliances).