At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop cutting-edge RF/microwave circuits for advanced guidance systems.
- Company: Leading UK defence organisation with a rich history in engineering excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent transport links, onsite gym, and coffee shop.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on long-term programmes and technical depth.
- Why this job: Get hands-on experience in RF design and see your work make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Strong practical experience in RF/microwave circuit design and testing.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are supporting a leading UK defence organisation on the development of cutting edge RF and microwave technology used within complex guidance and datalink systems. This role is ideal for an RF Engineer who enjoys hands-on design, rapid prototyping and lab-based testing, and wants to see their work progress from concept through to real hardware.
What you'll be doing:
- Designing and developing RF / microwave circuits across a wide frequency range (typically 30 MHz to 30 GHz)
- Working at component and module level on RF subsystems including LNAs, power amplifiers, filters, oscillators and synthesisers
- Building, modifying and debugging prototypes to support development and test activities
- Conducting hands-on RF testing and verification in an on-site laboratory environment
- Ensuring designs perform in demanding operational environments (EMC, vibration, thermal)
- Collaborating closely with systems, mechanical and test teams to integrate RF designs into larger systems
What we're looking for (essential):
- Strong practical experience in RF / microwave circuit design and test
- Confident use of RF test equipment (spectrum analysers, VNAs, power meters)
- Hands-on laboratory skills including fault finding, rework and fine soldering
- Experience designing for real world constraints (EMC, environmental conditions)
- Understanding of analogue, digital and power supply interfaces around RF designs
Nice to have (not essential):
- Experience with RF simulation and layout tools (e.g., Microwave Office)
- Exposure to design for manufacture and test
- Background in defence, aerospace or other safety critical environments
Why this role:
- Highly technical, engineering led environment
- Genuine hands-on RF design, not paperwork-heavy
- Work on advanced, high frequency systems with real end-use impact
- Long term programmes and technical depth rather than short term projects
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 client's Security Team.
This role is based at their headquarters in Stevenage which plays a key part in missiles operations. The site also offers excellent transportation links and boasts an onsite gym and coffee shop.
Senior RF - Microwave Design Engineer employer: Guidant Global
Guidant Global is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and inclusive work culture, perfect for those looking to thrive in high-volume recruitment. With a strong emphasis on employee development and collaboration, team members benefit from ongoing training opportunities and the chance to build meaningful relationships with clients across the Midlands area. The hybrid working model not only promotes work-life balance but also allows for flexibility and autonomy in managing your workload.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior RF - Microwave Design Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Get hands-on! Since this role is all about practical RF design, make sure to showcase your lab skills. Bring along examples of your prototypes or any cool projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to build and test RF circuits.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with professionals in the defence and aerospace sectors. Attend industry events or join online forums where you can chat about RF technology. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for that screening call! Brush up on your RF knowledge and be ready to discuss your experience with specific equipment like spectrum analysers and VNAs. We want to see your confidence shine through when talking about your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and contributing to cutting-edge RF and microwave technology.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior RF - Microwave Design Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your RF and microwave design experience. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Show Off Your Hands-On Skills:Since this role is all about hands-on design and testing, don’t forget to showcase your practical experience. Mention specific projects where you've built or modified prototypes and any lab work you've done.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We want to see your skills and experiences without wading through unnecessary fluff. Make every word count!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you're serious about joining our team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Guidant Global
✨Know Your RF Basics
Brush up on your RF and microwave circuit design fundamentals. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've designed components like LNAs or power amplifiers. This shows you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Hands-On Experience is Key
Prepare to talk about your hands-on lab work. Share examples of how you've built, modified, or debugged prototypes. Highlight your skills with RF test equipment like spectrum analysers and VNAs, as this will demonstrate your capability in a real-world setting.
✨Understand Real-World Constraints
Be ready to discuss how you've designed for challenging environments, such as EMC or thermal conditions. This role requires an understanding of how designs perform under pressure, so having concrete examples will set you apart.
✨Collaboration is Crucial
Since this role involves working closely with systems and mechanical teams, think of instances where you’ve collaborated effectively. Emphasise your communication skills and how you’ve integrated RF designs into larger systems, as teamwork is essential in this environment.
