At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop RF electronics for innovative sensor systems in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join Leonardo, a leader in airborne communications with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and access to 4,000+ online courses.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional development and a comprehensive benefits package.
- Why this job: Make an impact in defence technology while growing your career in a supportive culture.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electronics Engineering or related field; hands-on RF design experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 70000 £ per year.
We are excited to be recruiting for an experienced Engineer with microwave engineering knowledge, familiar with working on complex electronic (ideally RF-based) sensor systems. The role can be based in either Southampton or Bristol and will focus on the electronics design of the RF and control subsystems; to be implemented on 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 be part of the Leonardo Airborne Communications product development group within the Integrated Sensing & Protection line of business; interacting with partner organisations / sub-contractors and potential customers.
Your Impact
- You will be responsible for delivery of work packages focused on analogue and RF electronics, covering the inter vehicle data link design, system test and integration.
- Modelling of proposed architectures to determine the optimal solution.
- Simulation of RF design.
- Documentation of design including configuration management within Teamcenter.
- Support laboratory hardware demonstrator development and test.
What we are looking for
- Practical hands-on experience of RF design of circuitry, ideally between DC and 30 GHz, but if you don’t have experience over this whole range then we’d still be interested to hear from you.
- Experience of working with PCB layout personnel in an advisory capacity.
- Hands-on experience of using RF test and measurement equipment to develop and debug RF circuitry.
- Ability to use RF and system modelling and simulation tools.
- Ability to produce concise technical reports detailing design solutions and implementation.
- Ability to understand and follow the business practices, such as design reviews, which come with working in a high technology defence environment.
- Degree in relevant engineering or related scientific discipline (Electronics Engineering preferred).
- As part of an electromechanical project, be willing to work closely with the mechanical team members to create a solution which addresses all design requirements.
It would be nice if you had
- Knowledge / experience of digital or mixed signal design.
- Experience in system level and sub-system integration and debug.
- Experience of working in the defence electronics sector.
- Chartered Engineer status, or a member of a professional engineering institution.
Security Clearance
This role is subject to pre-employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). An additional range of Personnel Security Controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) may apply, this could include meeting the eligibility requirements for The Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV).
Why join us
At Leonardo, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We offer a comprehensive, company-funded benefits package that supports your wellbeing, career development, and work–life balance. Whether you're looking to grow professionally, care for your health, or plan for the future, we’re here to help you thrive.
- Time to Recharge: Enjoy generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi-days each year.
- Secure your Future: Benefit from our award-winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
- Your Wellbeing Matters: Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee-led networks championing inclusion and diversity.
- Rewarding Performance: All employees at management level and below are eligible for our bonus scheme.
- Never Stop Learning: Free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
- Refer a friend: Receive a financial reward through our referral programme.
- Tailored Perks: Spend up to £500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more.
- Flexible working: Flexible hours with hybrid working options. For part-time opportunities, please talk to us about what might be possible for this role.
Locations and Contract
Primary Location: GB - Southampton
Additional Locations: GB - Bristol - Coldharbour Lane
Contract Type: Employee-Permanent
Hybrid Working: Hybrid
Principal RF Engineer in Southampton employer: 慨正橡扯
At Leonardo, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. With locations in both Southampton and Bristol, we provide flexible working options, a comprehensive benefits package including generous leave and an award-winning pension scheme, and access to extensive learning resources to help you thrive in your career. Join us to be part of a dynamic team where your contributions make a meaningful impact in the defence electronics sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal RF Engineer in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the RF engineering field, attend industry events, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your RF design projects, simulations, and any hands-on experience you've had. This will give potential employers a tangible sense of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get ready for interviews by rehearsing common technical questions related to RF engineering. Brush up on your knowledge of PCB layout, RF test equipment, and system integration to impress your interviewers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications directly from candidates who are passionate about joining us at Leonardo. It shows initiative and gives you a better chance of standing out in the crowd.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal RF Engineer in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your microwave engineering knowledge and RF design experience. We want to see how your skills match the job description, so don’t be shy about showcasing your relevant projects!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re excited about the role and how your background makes you a great fit. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm for what we do at Leonardo.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:When detailing your experience, focus on your hands-on RF design work and any relevant tools you've used. We’re looking for specifics, so mention any RF test equipment or modelling tools you’ve worked with!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at 慨正橡扯
✨Know Your RF Basics
Brush up on your microwave engineering knowledge and RF design principles. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with RF circuitry, especially in the DC to 30 GHz range. This will show that you understand the technical requirements of the role.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since you'll be working closely with mechanical teams and PCB layout personnel, prepare examples of past collaborations. Highlight how you’ve effectively communicated and integrated different engineering disciplines to achieve project goals.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about RF test and measurement equipment, as well as modelling and simulation tools. Brush up on your knowledge of these areas and be ready to explain how you've used them in previous projects.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Ability
Be prepared to discuss specific challenges you've faced in RF design and how you overcame them. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and clearly convey your problem-solving skills.
