Lead RF Engineer

• Contract
• Market related

We’re on the hunt for a Senior-level RF Engineer to take the lead on cutting-edge mmWave RF circuit design for mission-critical SATCOM systems. If you’re an expert in RF engineering – particularly across the 10-30GHz range – and thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on environment, this opportunity is built for you. The key to this position is having both the system level design experience, transceiver/transmitter design and hands on RF design and test of the system.

This is a 12-month Hybrid working Outside IR35 contract with a leading technology client based just south of Henley-on-Thames. You’ll be joining a highly skilled engineering team working at the forefront of satellite communication, delivering RF subsystems with global reach and real-world impact.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• RF Subsystem Design – Architect and design Ku/Ka-band front-end modules (LNAs, PAs, filters, mixers, frequency converters) for next-gen SATCOM ground terminals.
• Simulation & Analysis – Run system analysis and propagation modelling using System Vue, ADS, and MATLAB.
• Prototyping & Testing – Take designs from schematic through to test and validation with VNAs, signal generators, satellite modems, and more.
• EM Simulation – Conduct high-fidelity simulations using HFSS, Keysight ADS, etc.
• Data-Driven Insight – Analyse and validate simulation and real-world data using MATLAB, Python, or similar tools.
• Collaborative Integration – Work closely with modem, antenna, mechanical and manufacturing teams to optimise at the system level.
• Documentation & Compliance – Create clear technical documentation and ensure all designs meet FCC, ITU, ETSI, EMC and ruggedisation standards.

✅ You’ll Need:

• 7-8+ years‘ experience in RF/Microwave design – ideally for aerospace communications infrastructure
• Strong hands-on design experience across Ku and Ka bands (10-30GHz).
• Deep expertise in RF hardware (LNAs, mixers, VCOs, PAs, etc.) and performance optimisation (noise, linearity, impedance matching).
• Proficiency with RF test equipment: spectrum/network analysers, signal generators, etc.
• Simulation tool fluency: ADS, System Vue, MATLAB