RF / Microwave Engineer - 3‑Month Contract (Onsite, Southampton)

Rate: £64.22 p/h (Umbrella)
IR35: Inside
Clearance: Active SC required to start (UKEO only)
Location: Full-time onsite, Southampton
Duration: Initial 3 months

Overview

We are seeking an experienced RF / Microwave Engineer with a strong background in complex electronic systems, ideally RF‑based sensor systems. This role focuses on the electronic design of RF and control subsystems for both laboratory and aircraft concept demonstrators.

You will support the full product lifecycle-design, integration and test, system trials, and delivery-while working closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams, partner organisations, subcontractors, and end users.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver work packages focused on analogue and RF electronics, including inter‑vehicle data link design, system test, and integration.
• Model proposed system architectures to determine optimal technical solutions.
• Perform RF simulations and analysis.
• Produce and maintain technical documentation, including configuration management within Teamcenter.
• Support laboratory hardware demonstrator development, integration, and testing.

Required Skills & Experience

You don't need experience in every area, but the following are key:

• Hands‑on RF circuit design experience, ideally DC to 30 GHz (flexible).
• Experience working with PCB layout teams in an advisory capacity.
• Practical use of RF test and measurement equipment for development and debugging.
• Ability to use RF and system modelling/simulation tools.
• Strong technical reporting and documentation skills.
• Understanding of engineering governance practices such as design reviews within a high‑tech defence environment.
• Degree in Electronics Engineering or a related discipline.
• Willingness to collaborate closely with mechanical engineering teams on electromechanical projects.

Nice-to-Have Skills

• Knowledge of digital or mixed‑signal design.
• Experience with system‑level and subsystem integration and debugging.
• Background in defence electronics projects.
• Chartered Engineer status or membership of a professional engineering institution.

Security Requirements

• Role requires BPSS and existing SC clearance (UKEO) to start.
• Candidates may be subject to additional UK National Security Vetting processes as applicable.