At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop and run RF tests, automate processes, and analyse results in a hands-on lab environment.
- Company: Fast-growing UK engineering firm focused on advanced sensing and wireless systems.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic lab environment with strong ties to product development and excellent career prospects.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on cutting-edge RF technology and work closely with innovative teams.
- Qualifications: Experience with RF testing, Python scripting, and a methodical approach to problem-solving.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Our client is a fast-growing UK engineering business developing advanced sensing, communications and wireless systems for demanding operational environments. Their work brings together RF hardware, mixed-signal systems, software-defined radio, AI and edge-deployed technology to support critical real-world applications. They are now looking for an RF Test Engineer to strengthen their RF test and evaluation capability in Bristol.
The Role Will Involve:
- Developing RF test approaches covering sensitivity, dynamic range, noise figure, gain and bandwidth
- Setting up and running RF tests using spectrum analysers, VNAs, signal generators and oscilloscopes
- Writing scripts, typically in Python, to automate tests and control lab equipment
- Supporting hardware bring-up and early-stage validation of new RF platforms
- Analysing test results and helping diagnose performance issues across analogue, mixed-signal and digital domains
- Working with RF, hardware, software, systems and QA engineers to build structured, repeatable test procedures
- Maintaining and improving lab setups, equipment configurations and test infrastructure
- Producing clear test plans, procedures and results reports
Our client is looking for someone with hands-on RF test, validation or characterisation experience. You should be comfortable working in the lab, using RF test equipment, automating measurements and taking a methodical approach to understanding why a system is or is not performing as expected.
Key Experience They Are Looking For:
- RF test, validation or characterisation experience
- Practical use of spectrum analysers, VNAs, signal generators and oscilloscopes
- Python or similar scripting for test automation and equipment control
- Understanding of RF performance metrics such as noise figure, gain, sensitivity, bandwidth and dynamic range
- Ability to develop test approaches where requirements are not fully defined
- Experience creating repeatable test procedures and maintaining clear documentation
- Confidence working across RF, hardware, software and product teams
Experience with SDR platforms, SCPI or instrument APIs, hardware-in-the-loop testing, automated regression testing, RF signal chain analysis, compliance testing or defence/aerospace environments would be useful, but is not essential. This RF Test Engineer role would suit someone who enjoys practical lab work, debugging complex systems and building test approaches that give engineering teams clear answers. It offers the chance to work on advanced RF systems with real operational impact, in an environment where test engineering is closely tied to product development rather than treated as a box-ticking exercise.
The role is based in Bristol with hybrid working available, although candidates should expect to be on site at least 3 days per week, with regular time in the lab. Occasional travel may be required to support integration or deployment activities. Candidates must be eligible for UK SC clearance.
RF Test Engineer in Bristol employer: IC Resources
Join a dynamic and innovative engineering firm in Bristol, where your role as an RF Test Engineer will directly contribute to the development of cutting-edge sensing and communication technologies. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and employee growth, the company fosters a supportive work culture that encourages hands-on experimentation and continuous learning. Enjoy the benefits of hybrid working, a vibrant team environment, and the opportunity to make a tangible impact on critical real-world applications.
