Principal Radio Frequency Engineer

ETL Systems has been at the forefront of RF design and manufacturing for over 35 years. It designs and builds essential elements of critical satellite communications infrastructure. Its culture of innovation and solution-oriented approach has established it as a market leader in the field, with revenue growing 30x since 2003. In 2020, ETL Systems received significant investment from CBPE Capital, enabling the management team to drive its ambitious growth plan forward.

ETL's rapid growth and success have been recognised at the UK's highest level, winning three Queen's Awards for Enterprise in International Trade. As a testament to that success, the top 20 satellite operators and teleports utilise ETL's products. Around the world, 75% of NATO governments use ETL Systems equipment to protect their citizens.

Today, the company offers a full suite of solutions between the antenna and the modem for both the uplink and downlink chains. ETL recently acquired Spacepath Communications to integrate Space Path's HPA product line into its portfolio. This position positions ETL to meet the evolving needs of our customers better and expand ETL's reach within the SATCOM market.

• sBuy and sell holiday schem
• eLong service holiday accrua
• lEnhanced pension pla
• nLife assuranc
• eAnnual salary revie
• wCareer development and training for all role
• sFree employee refreshment
• sCasual business dres
• sAnnual company event
• sETL employee wellbeing support (free annual flu vaccination, free eye tests, free employee assistance programme, Free GP Access
• )Employee referral bonu
• sFree onsite parkin
• gEV charging is available on-sit
• eCycle to work schem

We are looking for a highly experienced Principal RF Engineer to join our advanced Research & Development team in Rickmansworth, North London. This is a critical role within ETL Systems, where you will lead the design, development, and implementation of complex RF and mmWave systems that underpin next‑generation satellite communication technologies. Operating at the forefront of innovation, you will be instrumental in delivering high‑performance RF sub‑systems from initial concept through to production, ensuring that our solutions meet the rigorous demands of global connectivity.

As a Principal RF Engineer, you will work onsite in our state‑of‑the‑art R&D Lab, collaborating closely with a dynamic team of RF specialists and multidisciplinary engineers. This hands‑on environment offers the opportunity to engage in practical design, rapid prototyping, and precision testing using world‑class equipment. This position is ideal for an engineer who thrives on technical challenges, values innovation, and enjoys mentoring others.

You will report directly to the RF Team Lead and play a key role in shaping the future of RF technology within our organization.

• Lead the design and development of RF and Microwave products across IF, L-, C-, X-, Ku-, K-, Ka, and Q/V Bands. Solve complex and unique RF design challenges with broad business impact.
• Anticipate internal and external business and regulatory challenges to improve products, processes, and services. Lead cross‑functional project teams to achieve technical milestones and strategic objectives.
• Perform RF system analysis and simulation, including cascade analysis and frequency planning. Produce high‑quality technical documentation including datasheets, design reports, and test results.
• Communicate complex technical ideas and influence senior stakeholders to adopt new approaches.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the development of functional strategy.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure timely delivery and alignment with business.

Our ideal candidate will be a hands‑on professional who will spend most of their time in the lab developing new technologies and supporting the next generation of up‑and‑coming RF professionals.

• Extensive experience in RF and Microwave design (DC–6 GHz and ideally up to >40 GHz). Proven ability to solve complex engineering problems with strategic impact.
• Proficient in CAD tools (e.g. NI/AWR Microwave Office). In-depth understanding of RF circuit theory,…