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 impactful projects.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a focus on innovation and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a difference 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 employer: API Microwave
Join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and excellence in the aerospace, defence, and space sectors. As an RF 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 equal opportunity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land RF Engineering Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the RF engineering field, attend industry events, and join relevant online forums. 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 best RF projects, simulations, and designs. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, having tangible examples of your work can really set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get ready for interviews by rehearsing common RF engineering questions and scenarios. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who take the initiative. Make sure to tailor your application to highlight your leadership experience and technical expertise in RF systems, as that’s what we’re looking for in a strong candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace RF Engineering Lead
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 role, 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 passionate about RF engineering and how your leadership experience can benefit our team. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:We love seeing hands-on experience! Mention specific RF simulation tools and any relevant laboratory equipment you’ve worked with. This will help us understand your technical expertise right off the bat.
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 RF Engineering Lead position. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at API Microwave
✨Know Your RF Basics
Brush up on your RF and microwave engineering fundamentals. Be prepared to discuss circuit design, simulation, and system integration in detail. This will show that you have the technical expertise needed for the role.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
Since this position involves leading a team, be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed engineering teams in the past. Highlight your mentoring and performance management skills to demonstrate your leadership capabilities.
✨Familiarise with Tools
Make sure you're comfortable discussing industry-standard tools like ADS, AWR, HFSS, CST, and MATLAB. If possible, mention any hands-on experience you have with RF simulation tools and laboratory test equipment, as this will set you apart.
✨Engage with Cross-Functional Teams
Prepare to talk about your experience collaborating with other departments such as systems, mechanical, and quality engineering. Emphasising your ability to work effectively across teams will show that you can contribute to a cohesive engineering environment.
