At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead RF system design for high-power accelerators and ensure reliable operation.
- Company: Join StandardX, a pioneering team building the UK's first isotope refinery.
- Benefits: Enjoy private health cover, life assurance, pension contributions, and share options.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for hands-on work and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on critical isotope production and tackle global challenges.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in high-power RF systems and strong engineering judgment required.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 85000 £ per year.
As Lead RF Engineer, you'll be the responsible engineer for all RF power systems on StandardX's high‑power accelerator platforms, from RF generation through transmission to the beam–structure interface. You’ll own RF architecture, operating margins, protection philosophy and scaling paths as systems increase in power and duty factor. This is a hands‑on, system‑level role for someone who has delivered high‑power RF accelerator systems in practice, not just on paper - with strong experience across RF power sources, transmission systems and beam‑coupled structures. You’ll work closely with accelerator physics and EC&I to ensure RF systems are correctly specified, protected, and integrated for reliable, high‑availability operation in regulated environments. You’ll be seeking ownership over supervision, spanning design, integration, commissioning, and early operation and you’ll be comfortable with startup pace and fast‑shifting scope. You bring strong system‑level engineering judgment and be trusted to lead, not just execute.
Key Objectives:
- Own the end-to-end RF system design for high‑power accelerators, from RF power sources through transmission to beam‑coupled structures.
- Define RF architecture, operating points, power margins, fault envelopes and scaling paths to higher beam power and duty factor.
- Lead RF diagnostics, protection, and integration with LLRF, controls and machine protection systems.
- Support hands‑on RF integration, conditioning, commissioning, and early operations, while leading supplier technical direction and design reviews.
Your Responsibilities:
- Architecture & Design: Own the end-to-end RF system design for high‑power accelerators, from RF power sources through transmission to beam‑coupled structures. Define RF architecture, operating points, power margins, fault envelopes, and scaling paths to higher beam power and duty factor.
- Integration & Protection: Specify and integrate RF power systems (tetrodes/SSAs), waveguides, couplers, circulators, loads and cooling interfaces. Lead design and integration of RF diagnostics and protection, including forward/reflected power, phase and amplitude stability, arc detection and fast shutdown. Interface RF systems with LLRF, controls, and machine protection systems, ensuring deterministic response and safe operation.
- Physics, Reviews & Compliance: Work closely with accelerator physics to ensure RF systems support beam quality, stability and availability. Lead RF contributions to design reviews, safety cases and regulatory submissions.
- Commissioning & Supplier Direction: Support hands‑on RF integration, conditioning, commissioning and early operations. Own RF‑related supplier technical direction, specifications and acceptance testing.
Requirements:
- 5+ years' experience delivering high‑power RF accelerator systems.
- Strong experience with RF power sources (tetrodes, IOTs, or solid‑state amplifiers).
- Hands‑on experience with RF transmission systems (waveguides, couplers, circulators, loads).
- Experience with beam‑coupled RF structures or high‑power resonant cavities.
- Practical commissioning and conditioning experience on complex RF systems.
- Solid understanding of RF protection, interlocks and fast shutdown.
- System‑level engineering judgment and strong ownership in fast‑moving environments.
Ideal Experience:
- Experience in the design of cyclotron accelerator RF cavities.
- PhD in RF engineering, accelerator physics, or a closely related field.
- Experience scaling RF systems to higher power or duty factor.
- Direct experience with accelerator RF systems and beam loading effects.
- LLRF or real‑time control experience (FPGA-based systems, digital feedback).
- Comfortable leading.
- Experience in HAZOP and safety reviews.
- Familiarity with multipacting, breakdown mitigation and high‑gradient structures.
- Exposure to machine protection systems and safety cases.
Benefits:
- Private Health Cover, with the option to add dependants.
- Life Assurance (Death in Service) at 4x salary.
- Salary sacrifice pension, with 4% employer contribution.
- Cycle to Work Scheme.
- EMI Share Options.
Lead RF Engineer in London employer: StandardX
StandardX is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the Greater London area where innovation and collaboration thrive. Employees benefit from comprehensive professional development opportunities, a supportive culture that values creativity, and the chance to work on cutting-edge technology in high-power accelerator systems. With a focus on employee well-being and a commitment to excellence, StandardX stands out as a rewarding place for those seeking meaningful contributions in their careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead RF Engineer in London
✨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 Lead RF Engineer role you’re after at StandardX.
✨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 StandardX 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 StandardX.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Lead RF Engineer at StandardX, 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 Lead RF Engineer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Lead 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 StandardX 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 StandardX 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 StandardX
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with StandardX, 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 StandardX 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.
