Project Engineering Lead

Project Engineering Lead

Full-Time 60000 - 80000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
API Microwave

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 strong focus on mentorship and team development.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in aerospace and defence with cutting-edge technology.
  • 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.

Project Engineering Lead employer: API Microwave

Join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and excellence in the aerospace, defence, and space sectors. As a Project Engineering Lead, you will thrive in a collaborative work culture that prioritises employee growth through mentorship and continuous improvement initiatives. With access to cutting-edge technology and a commitment to high-performance solutions, this role offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact while enjoying a supportive environment that champions diversity and inclusion.

API Microwave

Contact Details:

API Microwave Recruitment Team

We think you need these skills to ace Project Engineering Lead

RF Circuit Design
Microwave Engineering
System Architecture Design
Cascade Analysis
Link Budgets
Simulation and Validation
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