Lead RF Engineer

Lead RF Engineer

London hybrid work - 6 months with likely extension - 600-800pd Outside of IR35

Join a technical consultancy where your expertise in RF design directly shapes complex, high-performance systems for the world's most demanding environments. This role sits at the intersection of innovation and application. You'll act as the subject matter expert for all things RF and microwave, guiding design decisions, mentoring teams, and engaging directly with clients to translate advanced technical capability into practical, reliable solutions.

Key Responsibilities
* Lead RF and microwave system design, simulation, and development across multiple concurrent projects
* Define architectures and design RF circuits covering frequencies from MHz through to multi-GHz ranges
* Oversee design and analysis of LNAs, PAs, filters, oscillators, mixers, and antenna subsystems
* Perform link budget analysis, impedance matching, and noise figure optimisation
* Conduct EM and circuit-level simulations using HFSS, ADS, CST, or similar tools
* Manage prototyping, validation, and test activities including S-parameter measurement, spectrum analysis, and gain/linearity characterisation
* Support requirements definition and design assurance for aerospace and defence-grade standards
* Act as the RF technical authority - reviewing designs, advising clients, and mentoring engineering teams
* Collaborate with digital, embedded, and mechanical disciplines to deliver fully integrated systems

Essential Skills and Experience
* Degree-qualified in Electronics, RF Engineering, Physics or a related discipline
* Proven track record in the design and development of RF/microwave systems for high-reliability or mission-critical applications
* Strong experience in:

• RF circuit design and layout up to 40GHz+

• Simulation tools (Keysight ADS, HFSS, CST, AWR)

• Antenna integration and matching network design

• Filter and amplifier design (LNA, PA, IF stages)

• EMC, EMI and signal integrity best practice

• Lab testing and measurement using VNAs, spectrum analysers, and oscilloscopes
  * Deep understanding of design for manufacturability, reliability, and environmental robustness
  * Excellent communication and client-facing ability - capable of articulating complex concepts clearly and credibly

Desirable
* Experience with phased array, radar, satcom or electronic warfare systems
* Knowledge of mixed-signal or digital-RF interfaces (ADC/DAC integration, FPGA control)
* Familiarity with defence and aerospace compliance standards (MIL-STD, DO-160, DEF-STAN)
* Experience in technical consultancy or customer-facing engineering environments