At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and optimise advanced RF and microwave circuits for defence systems.
- Company: Leading defence engineering firm with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects with excellent growth potential.
- Why this job: Join a team making a real difference in defence technology.
- Qualifications: 3-8 years in RF design, strong circuit theory knowledge, and hands-on experience.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 € per year.
Job Title: RF Engineer – Defence Systems
Location: Hampshire
Department: Engineering / R&D
Reports To: Lead RF Systems Engineer / Engineering Manager
About the Role
We are seeking a highly skilled RF Engineer to join our defence engineering team developing advanced communication, radar, and electronic warfare (EW) systems. The successful candidate will be responsible for the design, simulation, testing, and integration of RF and microwave subsystems that meet stringent military and environmental standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, develop, and optimize RF and microwave circuits (amplifiers, filters, mixers, oscillators, antennas, and matching networks) for defence applications.
- Perform RF simulations and analyses using industry-standard tools (e.g., ADS, HFSS, CST, AWR, or similar).
- Support system-level architecture and link budget analyses for communication and radar systems.
- Conduct RF testing, validation, and troubleshooting of prototype and production units in laboratory and field environments.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (digital, mechanical, and systems engineers) to ensure seamless hardware integration.
- Ensure designs comply with MIL-STD and EMC/EMI requirements.
- Contribute to technical documentation, including design reports, test procedures, and validation results.
- Support prototype builds, production handover, and supplier technical liaison.
- Participate in design reviews, configuration management, and quality assurance processes.
Required Qualifications
- 3–8 years of experience in RF design, preferably in defence, aerospace, or communications domains.
- Strong understanding of RF circuit theory, microwave propagation, and antenna design principles.
- Hands-on experience with RF measurement equipment (VNAs, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, power meters, etc.).
- Experience with PCB design and layout for RF systems (using Altium, Cadence, or equivalent).
- Familiarity with military environmental standards (MIL-STD-810, MIL-STD-461) and reliability principles.
- Eligibility for, or possession of, security clearance.
Radio Frequency Engineer in Northampton employer: Sanderson Government & Defence
Join our dynamic team in Hampshire as a Radio Frequency Engineer, where you will be at the forefront of developing cutting-edge defence systems. We pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative work culture that encourages innovation and professional growth, offering extensive training and development opportunities to enhance your skills. With a commitment to excellence and adherence to military standards, we provide a unique environment that not only values your contributions but also supports your career aspirations in a meaningful and rewarding way.
Contact Detail:
Sanderson Government & Defence Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Radio Frequency Engineer in Northampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with professionals in the defence engineering field. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy to reach out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your RF design projects, simulations, and any hands-on experience you’ve had with RF measurement equipment. This will give potential employers a tangible sense of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and problem-solving skills. Be ready to discuss your experience with RF circuit theory and military standards. Practise common interview questions and think about how your background aligns with the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for talented RF Engineers. Keep an eye on our job listings and make sure your application stands out by tailoring it to the specific role and highlighting your relevant experience.
We think you need these skills to ace Radio Frequency Engineer in Northampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience in RF design and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about defence systems and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality!
Showcase Relevant Skills:When filling out your application, make sure to mention specific tools and technologies you’ve used, like ADS or HFSS. We’re looking for hands-on experience, so highlight any RF measurement equipment you’ve worked with too!
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. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sanderson Government & Defence
✨Know Your RF Basics
Brush up on your RF circuit theory and microwave propagation principles. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you designed or optimised RF circuits, as this will show your hands-on experience and understanding of the field.
✨Familiarise with Tools
Make sure you're comfortable with industry-standard simulation tools like ADS, HFSS, or CST. If you can, bring examples of simulations you've conducted and be prepared to explain your approach and findings during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Testing Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience with RF measurement equipment such as VNAs and spectrum analyzers. Highlight any troubleshooting experiences you've had in both lab and field environments, as this demonstrates your practical skills.
✨Understand Compliance Standards
Get a good grasp of military environmental standards like MIL-STD-810 and MIL-STD-461. Being able to discuss how you've ensured compliance in past projects will show that you understand the importance of these standards in defence applications.
