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- Tasks: Lead RF systems engineering projects, from R&D to advanced technology demonstrators.
- Company: BAE Systems Digital Intelligence is a leader in cyber defence with 4,500 experts across 10 countries.
- Benefits: Enjoy a diverse and inclusive culture, opportunities for mentorship, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Join a collaborative team shaping innovative RF solutions that support national security and commercial success.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electronic Engineering or related field; experience in RF systems, particularly Radar or Electronic Warfare.
- Other info: Occasional travel required; SC level security clearance needed.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 84000 ÂŁ per year.
Join to apply for the Lead RF Systems Engineer role at BAE Systems Digital Intelligence
Location: Great Baddow, UK (Flexible working: 2–3 days onsite per week)
Role Purpose
We are seeking a highly experienced and driven Lead RF Systems Engineer / Technical Lead to join our growing capability team focused on the development of RF systems. This role is ideal for a systems‑level thinker with deep expertise in RF technologies who thrives at the interface of multi‑disciplinary teams and excels in shaping innovative system solutions from concept through to demonstrator.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide technical leadership across Sense & Effect development projects, from early‑stage R&D (TRL 2‑4) through to advanced technology demonstrators (TRL 5/6 and beyond).
- Lead the development of RF system architectures, including trade‑off studies balancing performance, cost, time and risk.
- Bring together specialists in antennas, RF components, signal processing, electronics, firmware and software to deliver cohesive system solutions.
- Represent the technical solution to customers and stakeholders, providing briefings, technical justifications and system roadmaps.
- Work closely with the Engineering Manager and Project Manager to align delivery with project milestones and quality standards.
- Contribute to the development of new RF system concepts, supporting early‑stage innovation, proof‑of‑principle activities and feasibility studies.
- Lead, mentor and inspire engineers across the team, fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement.
Essential Skills & Experience
- Strong background in RF systems engineering, particularly in Radar and/or Electronic Warfare domains (or related).
- Understanding of RF subsystems, including antennas, front‑end electronics, signal processing chains and system integration.
- Proven track record of system design, trade‑off analysis and performance modelling.
- Experience developing early‑stage concepts into technology demonstrators or operational prototypes.
- Excellent communication skills with experience in customer‑facing roles and technical presentations.
- Strong collaboration skills across technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
- Experience leading multi‑disciplinary teams or acting as a technical authority.
Desirable Skills
- Knowledge of EM, RF, Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and RF simulation/modelling tools.
- Experience with either Radar or electronic warfare techniques and military threat environments.
- Understanding of system‑level testing and validation of RF systems.
- Familiarity with defence standards and system engineering frameworks (e.g., DOORS, SysML, NAF).
Qualifications
- Degree (or higher) in Electronic Engineering, Physics, Systems Engineering or a related discipline.
- Chartered Engineer status (or working towards it) is desirable.
Further Information
- Occasional travel may be required to visit customer sites for demonstrations, installations, handovers or reviews.
- An SC level security clearance is required for this role, and candidates should already have, or be capable of obtaining UK SC clearance.
Why BAE Systems
This is a place where you’ll be able to make a real difference. You’ll be part of an inclusive culture that values diversity of thought, rewards integrity and merit, and where you’ll be empowered to fulfil your potential. We welcome people from all backgrounds and want to ensure our recruitment processes are as inclusive as possible. If you have a disability or health condition that may affect your performance, please speak to your recruiter about reasonable adjustments.
Many roles at BAE Systems are subject to security and export control restrictions. Applicants must achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard and may require higher levels of National Security Vetting depending on residency requirements.
Division overview: Capabilities
At BAE Systems Digital Intelligence, Capabilities is the engine that keeps the business moving forward. It is the largest area of Digital Intelligence, containing Engineering, Consulting and Project Management teams that design and implement defence solutions and digital transformation projects.
Seniority level
Mid‑Senior level
Employment type
Full‑time
Job function
Engineering and Information Technology
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Lead RF Systems Engineer employer: BAE Systems Digital Intelligence
Contact Detail:
BAE Systems Digital Intelligence Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead RF Systems Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the RF systems engineering field. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or local meetups to connect with experts and learn about potential job openings at BAE Systems.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your technical leadership skills by participating in relevant projects or initiatives. Highlight any experience you have in leading multi-disciplinary teams or mentoring others, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with the latest RF technologies and trends, especially in Radar and Electronic Warfare. Being knowledgeable about current advancements will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with customer engagement and technical presentations. BAE Systems values strong communication skills, so be ready to demonstrate how you've effectively conveyed complex technical information to stakeholders.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead RF Systems Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in RF systems engineering, particularly in Radar and Electronic Warfare. Use specific examples that demonstrate your technical leadership and multi-disciplinary collaboration.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for RF technologies and how your background aligns with the role's requirements. Mention your experience in leading teams and engaging with customers, as these are key aspects of the position.
Showcase Relevant Projects: Include details of any relevant projects you've worked on, especially those involving RF system architectures or technology demonstrators. Highlight your role in these projects and the impact they had on the overall success.
Prepare for Technical Questions: Anticipate technical questions related to RF subsystems and system integration during the interview process. Brush up on your knowledge of EM, RF, and DSP concepts, as well as any relevant defence standards.
How to prepare for a job interview at BAE Systems Digital Intelligence
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
As a Lead RF Systems Engineer, it's crucial to demonstrate your deep understanding of RF technologies. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've led the development of RF system architectures and how you balanced performance, cost, and risk.
✨Highlight Multi-Disciplinary Collaboration
This role requires working with various specialists. Share examples of how you've successfully integrated different disciplines, such as antennas, signal processing, and firmware, to deliver cohesive system solutions in past projects.
✨Prepare for Customer Engagement Scenarios
Since customer engagement is key, practice explaining complex technical concepts in simple terms. Be ready to discuss how you've represented technical solutions to stakeholders and provided effective briefings or justifications.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Mentorship Skills
As a potential leader, it's important to convey your experience in mentoring and inspiring teams. Prepare to discuss how you've fostered a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement within your previous teams.