Electronic Design Engineer (Radio Frequency & Microwave))

Job description

RF Design Engineer (Electronics to RF Transition Considered)

Join a leading technology organisation renowned for developing advanced RF solutions for critical markets such as defence, aviation, and spectrum monitoring. As an RF Design Engineer, you will play a vital role in New Product Introduction (NPI) and Sustaining Engineering, contributing to the design and development of innovative RF products.

We are also keen to speak with electronics engineers who have a strong analogue and digital background and are looking to transition into RF engineering. If you have solid electronics fundamentals and a genuine interest in developing RF expertise, this role offers the opportunity to grow your skills while working alongside experienced RF specialists.

You will be part of a small, dynamic team, working across the full product lifecycle—from requirements and design to testing, release, and support. This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a fast-paced, rewarding environment focused on cutting-edge RF technologies.

What You Can Expect in This Role (Job Responsibilities)

1. RF & Electronics Design

• RF system architecture design and simulation.
• Schematic capture, PCB layout, and footprint/symbol creation (using tools such as Altium).
• Scoping and feasibility studies for new systems and technologies.
• Managing external design resources where required.
• Collaborating with the wider Engineering Team to design and deliver innovative products.
• For candidates transitioning into RF, structured exposure to RF design, simulation, and testing alongside experienced engineers.

2. Technical Support and Testing

• Supporting production and manufacturing teams.
• Troubleshooting hardware and system-level issues across the business.
• Self-testing and debugging of your own designs.
• Leading and participating in design reviews.
• Verifying designs against requirement specifications.
• Mentoring and supporting junior engineers assigned to your projects.

3. Documentation and Communication

• Providing time estimates and risk assessments to project managers or team leaders.
• Contributing to weekly stand-ups, reporting progress, priorities, and risks.
• Organising and leading technical projects and design reviews (Preliminary, Interim, and Critical).
• Creating and maintaining clear, structured design documentation.
• Working collaboratively across engineering disciplines to meet departmental objectives.

What We Are Looking For (Experience, Knowledge, Skills, Abilities)

Required Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a relevant engineering role (RF or electronics).
• Strong foundation in analogue and digital electronics.
• Familiarity with PCB design tools and simulation software.
• Practical experience using test equipment such as oscilloscopes, spectrum analysers, network analysers, and signal generators.
• Understanding of EMC considerations.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive, team-oriented mindset.

RF-Specific Experience (or Willingness to Develop):

• Experience or exposure to RF component design, including:
• RF amplifiers (e.g., GaN or LDMOS).
• RF filters, transmitters, receivers, LNAs, upconverters, and downconverters.
• Antenna design.
• Candidates from an electronics background should demonstrate a clear interest in RF and a desire to develop RF design expertise.

Preferred Experience:

• Familiarity with tools such as Altium Designer, Cadence AWR Microwave Office, or Ansys HFSS.
• Experience with switch-mode PSUs, embedded circuitry, glue logic, and EMC circuitry.
• Knowledge of designing and testing to military and airborne standards (e.g., MIL-STDs, DO-160).

Education & Certifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering or a related discipline (or equivalent practical experience).

Additional Information

• Security Clearance: Eligibility for UK SC required.
• Travel: Minimal.
• Working Environment: Flexible hybrid working policy (3 days onsite / 2 days remote).

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

Northampton

Type of Contract

Full-time jobs

Published at

16-01-2026

Profession type

Design / Fashion

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English