At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us to develop cutting-edge RF technologies and contribute to innovative defence systems.
- Company: Leonardo, a world-class defence technology company with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a comprehensive benefits package.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for mentorship and career development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in defence technology while growing your engineering skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering and 5+ years in RF circuit design.
The predicted salary is between 53300 - 71400 £ per year.
Salary: Principal: £53,300 to £71,400
Leonardo UK operates a grade-based salary framework with broad bands. The salary range shown reflects the approved grade band for this role, or a narrower hiring range published within that band, and is benchmarked against the external market. Exceptions above the standard range are managed through governance controls to protect internal equity.
Your Impact
We are looking for a Principal RF Engineer to join Leonardo in Edinburgh. Leonardo are a world-class defence Technology Company. We develop cutting-edge Radars as well as Maritime and Airborne surveillance systems. We are also investors in innovation, undertaking all our own research to fuel our future products. This role sits within the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) Multifunction RF System (MRFS) team, where you will join our growing Electronics team to contribute to the delivery of a key Technology Demonstrator Programme (TDP), paving the way for the next generation of fire control radar.
Hybrid working - in this role it is possible to work from home some of the time, but the nature of the work and security requirements mean that you should expect to be mostly working on site.
What You’ll Do as a Principal RF Engineer
This is an exciting opportunity for you as an engineer to bring your skillset and knowledge into our working environment. You will be involved in developing a range of multifunctional RF, PCB and Module designs using the latest technologies available and contribute to the definition and execution of a testing and integration phase of a key TDP to enable GCAP.
- Full hardware lifecycle for our products: from system concept, through detailed design and prototyping, test and verification, system integration and support in production.
- Creating high quality and robust designs, conducting design reviews for your design, fully documenting and recording your work products, keeping them under configuration management and providing plans and progress reports.
- Developing a range of multifunctional RF PCB and Module designs using the latest technologies available and enhancing your understanding of key design and manufacture processes.
- Designing to test, creating test prototypes for design validation, verification of development models and support for production test.
- Preparing robust manufacturing data packs and provide technical support to sub-contracts and engineering interface with manufacturing.
- Working closely with Systems, Test and Electronics engineers, you will be solving real integration problems on advanced systems.
- Coach and mentor junior team members to support the development of a high-performance engineering team in preparation for the delivery of the demands of the GCAP programme.
What you’ll bring
You will ideally have experience in a number of the following areas:
- RF microwave sub-system design
- RF system test and integration
- Lab measurements such as signal generation, spectrum analysis and vector network analysis
- Microwave design tools
- GaAs/GaN MMIC design and application
- Design of passive microwave structures
- Low phase noise design and measurement
- Microwave component selection
- Technical report writing
- Design reviews and lifecycle management
This role requires you to have:
- Degree qualified in Electrical & Electronic Engineering (preferable) or related science (e.g. Physics).
- Proven experience (5+ years) in RF circuit design and analysis and a strong understanding of microwave techniques and electromagnetic theory.
- Ability to work effectively and lead in a collaborative team environment.
Personal attributes and values are just as important to us as technical ability so we are looking for engineers with a willingness to learn, progress and develop through our devoted technical career path. If you are passionate in what you do and can deliver a pragmatic approach to problem-solving we would like to hear from you.
Security Clearance
Please note that to apply for this opportunity you must be eligible for UK security clearance. Normally this is to the level of Security Check (typically known as “SC”) for our business which includes having a minimum of 5 years permanent residency in the UK.
Why join us
At Leonardo, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We offer a comprehensive, company-funded benefits package that supports your wellbeing, career development, and work–life balance. Whether you're looking to grow professionally, care for your health, or plan for the future, we’re here to help you thrive.
- Time to Recharge: Enjoy generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi-days each year.
- Secure your Future: Benefit from our award-winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
- Your Wellbeing Matters: Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee-led networks championing inclusion and diversity.
- Rewarding Performance: All employees at management level and below are eligible for our bonus scheme.
- Never Stop Learning: Free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
- Refer a friend: Receive a financial reward through our referral programme.
- Tailored Perks: Spend up to £500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more.
- Flexible working: Flexible hours with hybrid working options. For part time opportunities, please talk to us about what might be possible for this role.
For a full list of our company benefits please visit our website.
Leonardo is a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security. Headquartered in Italy, we employ over 53,000 people worldwide including 8,500 across 9 sites in the UK. Our employees are not just part of a team—they are key contributors to shaping innovation, advancing technology, and enhancing global safety.
At Leonardo we are committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace. We believe that a diverse workforce sparks creativity, drives innovation, and leads to better outcomes for our people and our customers. If you have any accessibility requirements to support you during the recruitment process, just let us know.
Be part of something bigger - apply now!
Primary Location: GB - Edinburgh
Contract Type: Permanent
Hybrid Working: Hybrid
Principal RF Engineer in Edinburgh employer: Leonardo
Leonardo is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee experience and inclusion, offering a dynamic work culture in the heart of Edinburgh. With flexible hybrid working arrangements, generous leave policies, and comprehensive mental health support, employees are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. The company fosters growth opportunities, ensuring that every team member can develop their skills and advance their careers in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal RF Engineer in Edinburgh
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Principal RF Engineer role you’re after at Leonardo.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at Leonardo a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at Leonardo.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Principal RF Engineer at Leonardo, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal RF Engineer in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Principal RF Engineer, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Leonardo a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Leonardo specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Leonardo
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Leonardo, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Leonardo want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
