At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and development of advanced RF systems for aerospace and defence.
- Company: Join a pioneering company at the forefront of RF engineering.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and opportunities to work on innovative projects.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on continuous improvement and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in high-tech industries while leading a talented team.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electronic Engineering and extensive RF engineering experience required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and driven RF Engineering Lead to join our Engineering team. This role is pivotal in leading the design, development, and delivery of high-performance RF and microwave systems for aerospace, defence, and space applications. You will combine deep technical expertise with leadership responsibility, guiding a team of RF engineers while ensuring robust, innovative, and manufacturable solutions are delivered across the full product lifecycle.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design and development of advanced RF circuits, subsystems, and system architectures.
- Define RF system architectures including cascade analysis and link budgets for radar, telemetry, and communication systems.
- Oversee simulation and validation activities using industry-standard tools (e.g. ADS, AWR, HFSS, CST, MATLAB).
- Ensure RF designs meet requirements for performance, manufacturability, reliability, and environmental constraints.
- Act as technical authority for RF engineering across projects, supporting design reviews (PDR, CDR, TRR).
- Collaborate with cross‑functional teams including systems, mechanical, manufacturing, and quality engineering.
- Support new product introduction (NPI) activities, ensuring smooth transition from design to production.
- Lead and line‑manage a team of RF engineers and technicians, including coaching, mentoring, and performance management.
- Contribute to bid and proposal activities through technical input, estimation, and risk assessment.
- Engage with customers and external partners to understand requirements and maintain strong technical relationships.
- Drive continuous improvement in RF design methodologies, tools, and engineering practices.
Required Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electronic Engineering or a related discipline.
- Extensive experience in RF and microwave engineering, including circuit design, simulation, and system integration.
- Proven experience delivering RF engineering projects within aerospace, defence, or similar high‑reliability industries.
- Strong hands‑on experience with RF simulation tools and laboratory test equipment (e.g. VNAs, spectrum analysers).
- Demonstrated experience in leading technical teams and managing engineering activities.
- Familiarity with product development lifecycles and regulated industry standards.
Skills & Competencies
- Technical: RF system design, Electromagnetic simulation, Circuit optimisation, RF testing and measurement, Design for manufacturability.
- Strategic: Ability to align engineering solutions with business and customer objectives, Manage technical risk, Support long‑term product roadmaps.
- Interpersonal: Strong communication skills, Effective cross‑functional collaboration, Ability to influence stakeholders and customers.
- Leadership: Team development, Mentoring, Performance management, Ownership of technical delivery, Fostering innovation and continuous improvement.
Other Requirements
You must be eligible for full security clearance.
RF Engineering Lead in Milton Keynes employer: API Microwave
As an RF Engineering Lead, you will thrive in a dynamic and innovative work environment that prioritises employee growth and collaboration. Our company offers competitive benefits, a strong commitment to professional development, and the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects in aerospace and defence. With a culture that fosters creativity and teamwork, you'll be empowered to lead a talented team while making a meaningful impact in high-reliability industries.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land RF Engineering Lead in Milton Keynes
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the RF engineering field! Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your hands-on experience with RF simulation tools and circuit design. We want to see your passion for RF engineering shine through, so share specific examples of projects you've worked on and the impact they had!
✨Prepare for Technical Interviews
Brush up on your technical knowledge and be ready to discuss RF system architectures and design methodologies. We recommend practising common interview questions related to RF engineering and even doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to build your confidence.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out our website for the latest job openings! Applying directly through our site not only shows your interest but also helps us keep track of your application. We’re excited to see what you bring to the table!
We think you need these skills to ace RF Engineering Lead in Milton Keynes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience in RF and microwave engineering. We want to see how your skills align with the job description, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant projects and achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the RF Engineering Lead role. Share your passion for aerospace and defence, and how your leadership experience can benefit our team.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:We love seeing hands-on experience! Be sure to mention any RF simulation tools and laboratory equipment you’ve worked with. This will help us understand your technical expertise and how you can contribute to our projects.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at API Microwave
✨Know Your RF Basics
Brush up on your RF and microwave engineering fundamentals. Be ready to discuss circuit design, simulation tools, and system integration. This will show that you have the technical expertise needed for the role.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
Prepare examples of how you've led teams in past projects. Highlight your mentoring and performance management skills, as well as how you've driven innovation and continuous improvement within your team.
✨Understand the Product Lifecycle
Familiarise yourself with the product development lifecycle, especially in regulated industries like aerospace and defence. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve ensured smooth transitions from design to production in previous roles.
✨Engage with Cross-Functional Teams
Think of examples where you've collaborated with other departments, such as systems or mechanical engineering. Emphasise your strong communication skills and ability to influence stakeholders, which are crucial for this position.
