At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and development of cutting-edge RF and mmWave systems.
- Company: Global leader in advanced RF, microwave, and millimetre-wave components.
- Benefits: Private medical insurance, pension scheme, and generous annual leave.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team in a state-of-the-art facility in County Durham.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in telecommunications and defence with innovative solutions.
- Qualifications: Degree in RF, Microwave, Electronics, or Communications Engineering required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
Our client is a global leader in the design and manufacture of advanced RF, microwave, and millimetre-wave components and subsystems, with a strong presence in County Durham, UK. Their products are widely used in wireless communication infrastructure and point-to-point communication systems. They work with leading international OEMs as well as mobile network operators, delivering tailored RF solutions to meet complex performance requirements. Their long-term strategy is to remain at the forefront of RF electronics by leveraging proprietary technologies, engineering expertise, and strong global customer relationships.
Broadband Division
Our client's Broadband division is a world-class designer and manufacturer of microwave and millimetre-wave products for telecoms, defence, and security markets, based in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, UK. The business also provides build-to-print manufacturing services from its advanced, highly automated UK facility.
Key capabilities include:
- Design and manufacture of microwave and millimetre-wave transceiver modules
- Development of filters and diplexers
- Custom MMIC design for multi-chip modules and advanced packaging
- Design for manufacture and cost optimisation services
- High-precision hybrid and surface-mount manufacturing
The division benefits from vertically integrated MMIC design and manufacturing, enabling faster time-to-market and highly competitive high-frequency products. Customers benefit from the co-location of design and production at a world-class facility in Newton Aycliffe, UK, ensuring efficiency, quality, and scalability. With strong quality processes, advanced automation, and proven delivery to over 60 countries, the business supports high-reliability, high-mix production across demanding sectors.
Job Overview
Our client is seeking a Principal RF Engineer to join their growing engineering team in County Durham, UK. This role offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge RF and mmWave products, from initial concept through to full production, within a state-of-the-art facility. The successful Principal RF Engineer will play a key role in the design, development, and delivery of innovative solutions across telecommunications and defence applications.
Purpose of the Role
The Principal RF Engineer will be responsible for leading the design of RF and mmWave systems, ensuring performance, quality, cost, and manufacturability requirements are met. The role also involves providing technical leadership, supporting project delivery, and driving engineering best practice.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design and development of RF/mmWave circuits, subsystems, and systems
- Take ownership of RF specifications, simulation, realisation, and validation
- Provide technical leadership and mentoring to engineering teams
- Conduct system line-up and tolerance analysis, ensuring design for manufacture
- Support component and MMIC selection, liaising with suppliers where required
- Collaborate closely with mechanical, electronics, PCB, manufacturing, and test teams
- Produce and review technical documentation, including design records and release data
- Lead design reviews, identifying and mitigating technical risks
- Support verification, validation, and reliability testing activities
- Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues during development and production
- Deliver designs in line with project timelines, cost targets, and technical requirements
Requirements
- Degree (or equivalent) in RF, Microwave, Electronics, or Communications Engineering
- Significant experience in RF/mmWave circuit or system design
- Strong proficiency with RF design tools such as ADS, CST, Microwave Office, or EMPro
- Solid understanding of microwave circuit design, system analysis, and design for manufacture
- Experience with transceivers, amplifiers, filters, or subsystem design is advantageous
- Proven ability to lead technical activities and mentor engineers
- Strong problem-solving skills with a practical engineering approach
- Excellent communication skills and ability to work across cross-functional teams
Benefits
- Private medical insurance
- Save As You Earn share scheme (£500 invested over 2 years at a discounted rate, held for 3 years)
- Pension scheme with up to 8% employer contribution (plus 2% match structure)
- Electric vehicle scheme (salary sacrifice)
- Cycle to work programme
- 15 days annual leave + bank holidays, with option to purchase 5 extra days
- 4x life assurance and income protection
- Relocation Support UK: Up to £5,000 International: Up to £8,000 Support covers relocation expenses such as removals, transport, and up to 3 months of temporary accommodation (excludes furniture/appliances)
Principal RF Engineer in Darlington employer: Redline Group Ltd
Our client is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in County Durham where innovation thrives. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, they provide comprehensive benefits including private medical insurance, a generous pension scheme, and relocation support, ensuring that their team members are well-supported both personally and professionally. The collaborative culture fosters creativity and technical excellence, making it an ideal place for engineers to advance their careers while contributing to cutting-edge RF technology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal RF Engineer in Darlington
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its products. Understand their RF solutions and be ready to discuss how your skills align with their needs. Show them you're not just another candidate, but someone who truly gets what they do.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and boost your confidence. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience directly to potential employers. Plus, it shows you're serious about landing that Principal RF Engineer role!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal RF Engineer in Darlington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal RF Engineer role. Highlight your experience with RF/mmWave circuit design and any relevant tools you've used, like ADS or CST. We want to see how your skills match our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about RF engineering and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. Don’t forget to mention specific projects that showcase your expertise.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In your application, be sure to highlight your technical skills and experiences. Discuss any leadership roles you've had in projects and how you've mentored others. We love seeing candidates who can lead and inspire!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to keep track of your application status. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Redline Group Ltd
✨Know Your RF Basics
Brush up on your RF and mmWave fundamentals before the interview. Be prepared to discuss key concepts like circuit design, system analysis, and the tools you’ve used, such as ADS or CST. This will show that you have a solid foundation and are ready to tackle the technical challenges of the role.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Bring examples of your previous work that highlight your experience in RF design and development. Discuss specific projects where you led the design process or overcame technical challenges. This not only demonstrates your expertise but also your ability to deliver results under pressure.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect in-depth technical questions related to RF specifications, simulation, and validation processes. Practice articulating your thought process when troubleshooting issues or conducting system line-up analyses. This will help you convey your problem-solving skills effectively during the interview.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with cross-functional teams, be ready to discuss your experience in collaborating with mechanical, electronics, and manufacturing teams. Highlight any mentoring roles you've taken on, as this shows your leadership potential and ability to foster teamwork.
