At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and test advanced RF systems in a hands-on lab environment.
- Company: Leading UK defence organisation with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, access to cutting-edge equipment, and a chance to work on complex projects.
- Other info: Security clearance needed; great opportunity for career growth in defence engineering.
- Why this job: Join a high-performing team and contribute to critical missile test programmes.
- Qualifications: Strong RF design experience and troubleshooting skills required.
The predicted salary is between 65 - 75 £ per hour.
We are supporting a leading UK defence organisation looking to bring in a Principal RF Engineer to join their specialist Hardware‑in‑the‑Loop (HWIL) team. This is a hands‑on, lab‑based role working with advanced RF systems, real‑time simulation environments, and live hardware integration supporting some of the most complex missile test programmes in the UK.
Responsibilities
- Design, develop and test RF systems within HWIL environments
- Integrate RF hardware into real‑time simulation platforms
- Troubleshoot and resolve complex system/interface issues
- Carry out system‑level performance analysis and optimisation
- Work closely with software, electronics and systems teams
- Support validation of missile system behaviour in controlled test environments
Essential Qualifications
- Strong background in RF design, development & test
- Experience working with RF test equipment (e.g. spectrum analysers, VNAs)
- Strong system integration, debugging & troubleshooting experience
- Experience working in complex or real‑time environments
Desirable Qualifications
- Linux experience
- C++ knowledge
- Microcontrollers within RF environments (e.g. Raspberry Pi)
Benefits
- Work in a true lab‑based engineering environment with access to cutting‑edge equipment
- Opportunity to contribute to full‑system testing (HWIL) as close as it gets to live firing
- Join a high‑performing, specialist team working on complex defence programmes
Security Clearance
British Citizen or a Dual UK national with British citizenship. Restrictions and/or limitations relating to nationality and/or rights to work may apply. As a minimum and after offer stage, all successful candidates will need to undergo HMG Basic Personnel Security Standard checks (BPSS), which are managed by our clients Security Team.
Principal RF Engineer HWIL in Stafford employer: American Society of Civil Engineers
Join a leading UK defence organisation as a Principal RF Engineer HWIL, where you will thrive in a dynamic lab-based environment equipped with cutting-edge technology. Our collaborative work culture fosters innovation and professional growth, allowing you to contribute to critical missile test programmes while working alongside a high-performing specialist team. With long-term contract opportunities and the chance to engage in full-system testing, this role offers a meaningful and rewarding career path in the heart of Stevenage.
Contact Details:
American Society of Civil Engineers Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal RF Engineer HWIL in Stafford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the RF engineering field, especially those who work in defence. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve got experience with RF test equipment or system integration, make sure to highlight that in conversations. Bring examples of your work to interviews to demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on your troubleshooting techniques and real-time simulation knowledge. Practise explaining complex concepts simply; it shows you really know your stuff!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always looking for talented individuals like you to join our team. It’s a great way to get noticed and land that dream role in RF engineering.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal RF Engineer HWIL in Stafford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience in RF design and testing. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your hands-on lab experience and any relevant projects you've worked on.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for our HWIL team. Mention specific experiences that relate to the job description, especially your troubleshooting and system integration skills.
Showcase Relevant Skills:Don’t forget to mention your experience with RF test equipment and any programming knowledge you have, like C++ or Linux. We love seeing candidates who can bring a diverse skill set to the table, especially in complex environments.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it makes the process smoother for everyone!
How to prepare for a job interview at American Society of Civil Engineers
✨Know Your RF Basics
Brush up on your RF design and testing fundamentals. Be ready to discuss your experience with RF test equipment like spectrum analysers and VNAs, as these are crucial for the role. Showing confidence in your technical knowledge will impress the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to share specific examples of how you've tackled complex system integration or troubleshooting issues in the past. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, making it easier for the interviewers to see your thought process.
✨Familiarise Yourself with HWIL Environments
Since this role involves working in Hardware-in-the-Loop environments, make sure you understand how these systems operate. If possible, bring up any relevant projects you've worked on that involved real-time simulation or hardware integration to showcase your hands-on experience.
✨Show Enthusiasm for Defence Projects
Express your passion for working on complex defence programmes and how you can contribute to the team. Research the organisation's recent projects or innovations in missile testing, and be prepared to discuss how your skills align with their goals.
