RF Engineering Lead

We’re supporting a specialist engineering company in their search for an experienced RF Engineering Lead to guide the development of cutting-edge RF and microwave systems for defence, aerospace, and space applications. Based in Milton Keynes, this is a hands-on technical leadership role within a team that designs and delivers advanced radar and telecoms solutions.

As RF Engineering Lead, you’ll combine in-depth RF design expertise with team leadership and project coordination. You’ll be responsible for defining architectures, overseeing technical delivery, and coaching a talented group of engineers through all phases of development - from concept through to production.

This role is ideal for a senior-level engineer or technical leader ready to drive complex programmes in a high-stakes sector.

• Lead the design and development of advanced RF circuits and subsystems aligned to product and customer requirements.
• Define RF system architectures, link budgets, and cascade analyses for radar, telemetry, and communications.
• Guide and perform simulations using ADS, AWR, HFSS, CST, and MATLAB.
• Approve technical documentation and ensure compliance with quality and manufacturing standards.
• Represent the RF discipline in design reviews (PDR, CDR, TRR) and cross-functional project meetings.
• Ensure RF designs are optimised for cost, reliability, and environmental conditions (e.g. EMC, thermal, vibration).
• Line-manage RF engineers and technicians – including mentoring, development, and performance support.
• Engage with customers early in the project lifecycle to scope technical needs and constraints.
• Contribute to proposals, estimates, and technical risk assessments.
• Foster technical collaboration and drive continuous improvement within the team.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electronic Engineering or related discipline.
• Strong foundation in RF/microwave engineering, circuit design, and system integration.
• Significant hands-on experience with RF simulation, prototyping, and testing.
• Familiarity with tools such as ADS, CST, HFSS, MATLAB, and Altium.
• Experience leading technical teams or mentoring junior engineers.
• Understanding of the full product development lifecycle, ideally in the defence/space sectors.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence both technically and strategically.
• Eligibility for UK Security Clearance is required.

• Hybrid working and a 9-day fortnight (every other Friday off)
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays (option to buy up to 5 more)
• Private medical cover, health cash plan, and life assurance (4x salary)
• Access to employee wellbeing and discount platforms
• Structured development and training opportunities
• Salary up to £100,000 depending on experience
• Relocation support available if moving to the area

• Director

• Full-time

• Telecommunications and Defense and Space Manufacturing