Senior Radio Frequency Engineer

Principal RF Engineer – Edinburgh (Hybrid)

We’re supporting a leading defence technology organisation in Edinburgh as they expand their RF engineering capability within a next‑generation combat air programme. This team is developing advanced multifunction RF systems for future airborne platforms, contributing directly to a major Technology Demonstrator Programme shaping the next era of fire‑control radar.

This is a role for an engineer who wants to work at the forefront of RF innovation — designing, testing and integrating complex microwave hardware that will influence future global defence capability.

Hybrid Working

You’ll have flexibility to work from home part of the week, though due to the nature of the projects and security requirements, you should expect to be on‑site in Edinburgh around three days per week (varies by project phase).

What You’ll Be Doing

As a Principal RF Engineer, you’ll take ownership across the full hardware lifecycle — from concept through to production support — on cutting‑edge RF, PCB and module designs.

You will:

• Lead RF/microwave sub‑system design across concept, detailed design, prototyping, verification and integration.
• Produce high‑quality, robust designs and documentation, ensuring full configuration management.
• Develop multifunction RF PCB and module designs using the latest technologies and manufacturing processes.
• Design for test, creating prototypes for validation and supporting production test activities.
• Prepare manufacturing data packs and provide technical support to subcontractors and production teams.
• Work closely with Systems, Test and Electronics engineers to solve real integration challenges on advanced platforms.

What You’ll Bring

You’ll ideally have experience in several of the following:

• RF system test and integration
• Lab measurements: signal generation, spectrum analysis, VNA
• Microwave design tools
• GaAs/GaN MMIC design and application
• Low phase‑noise design and measurement
• Microwave component selection
• Technical reporting and design reviews
• Full lifecycle engineering experience
• Degree in Electrical & Electronic Engineering (preferred) or related discipline (e.g., Physics)
• 5+ years’ proven experience in RF circuit design and analysis