At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and test advanced RF systems in a hands-on lab environment.
- Company: Leading UK defence organisation with a rich history in engineering.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, access to cutting-edge equipment, and onsite gym.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and involvement in real-time simulation environments.
- Why this job: Join a specialist team and contribute to complex missile test programmes.
- Qualifications: Strong RF design experience and troubleshooting skills required.
The predicted salary is between 65 - 75 £ per hour.
We are supporting a leading UK defence organisation looking to bring in a Principal RF Engineer to join their specialist Hardware-in-the-Loop (HWIL) team. This is a hands-on, lab-based role working with advanced RF systems, real-time simulation environments, and live hardware integration supporting some of the most complex missile test programmes in the UK.
What you'll be doing:
- Design, develop and test RF systems within HWIL environments
- Integrate RF hardware into real-time simulation platforms
- Troubleshoot and resolve complex system/interface issues
- Carry out system-level performance analysis and optimisation
- Work closely with software, electronics and systems teams
- Support validation of missile system behaviour in controlled test environments
What we're looking for:
Essential:
- Strong background in RF design, development & test
- Experience working with RF test equipment (e.g. spectrum analysers, VNAs)
- Strong system integration, debugging & troubleshooting experience
- Experience working in complex or real-time environments
Desirable:
- Linux experience
- C++ knowledge
- Microcontrollers within RF environments (e.g. Raspberry Pi)
Why this role:
- Work in a true lab-based engineering environment with access to cutting-edge equipment
- Opportunity to contribute to full-system testing (HWIL) as close as it gets to live firing
- Join a high-performing, specialist team working on complex defence programmes
What happens now?
Upon submission of your application, should it meet our selection criteria, you will be contacted via e-mail by one of our talent acquisition specialists to arrange a screening call. This telephone chat is structured to explore a series of questions aimed at matching your competencies and capabilities to the specific demands of the position. Please note, this screening is contingent upon the initial success of your application.
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 clients Security Team.
More about the role:
Our client's relationship with the UK military spans back over 70 years. They have delivered countless landmarks in defence engineering, supplying vital defence capability to meet the needs of the armed forces over land, sea, and air. 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.
Principal RF Engineer HWIL in Creswell employer: Impellam
Join a leading UK defence organisation as a Principal RF Engineer in Stevenage, where you'll work in a dynamic lab-based environment with cutting-edge technology. Enjoy a collaborative work culture that fosters innovation and offers significant opportunities for professional growth, all while contributing to critical defence programmes. With excellent transport links and onsite amenities like a gym and coffee shop, this role provides a rewarding and supportive workplace for those passionate about engineering excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal RF Engineer HWIL in Creswell
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees in the RF engineering field, especially those who have worked on HWIL projects. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for that screening call! Brush up on your RF design and troubleshooting skills, and be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with RF test equipment. We want to see your passion and expertise shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your problem-solving skills! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've tackled complex system issues in real-time environments. This will demonstrate your ability to thrive in challenging situations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal RF Engineer HWIL in Creswell
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your RF design and testing experience. We want to see how your skills match the job description, so don’t be shy about showcasing your hands-on lab work and any relevant projects you've tackled.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for our HWIL team. Share specific examples of your troubleshooting skills and system integration experience to grab our attention.
Showcase Relevant Skills:Don’t forget to mention your experience with RF test equipment and any programming knowledge, like C++. We love seeing candidates who can bring a mix of technical skills to the table, especially in complex environments!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for everyone!
How to prepare for a job interview at Impellam
✨Know Your RF Basics
Make sure you brush up on your RF design, development, and testing fundamentals. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've integrated RF hardware into real-time simulation platforms, as this will show your hands-on experience.
✨Familiarise with Test Equipment
Get comfortable with RF test equipment like spectrum analysers and VNAs. If you can, bring examples of how you've used these tools in past roles to troubleshoot and resolve complex system issues.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to discuss specific instances where you've debugged or optimised systems in complex environments. Highlight your approach to performance analysis and how you tackled any challenges that arose.
✨Highlight Team Collaboration
This role involves working closely with software, electronics, and systems teams. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with cross-functional teams in the past, especially in high-pressure situations.
