Principal RF Engineer (Hybrid)

About the role

Principal RF Engineer – hybrid working on a 12‑month contract for a leading defence technology organisation developing next‑generation radar and surveillance systems. You will join a multidisciplinary team to create advanced RF solutions from concept through testing, integration and production support.

Key responsibilities

• Design and develop RF and microwave subsystems, modules and PCB assemblies.
• Support projects throughout the complete hardware lifecycle, from concept and detailed design through to integration and production.
• Produce high‑quality engineering documentation, technical reports and manufacturing data packs.
• Plan and carry out verification, validation and test activities.
• Support system integration, troubleshooting and performance optimisation.
• Participate in design reviews and technical governance activities.
• Provide technical support to manufacturing teams and external suppliers.

Required profile

• Degree qualified in Electronic Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics or a related discipline.
• Minimum of five years' experience in RF circuit design and analysis.
• Strong understanding of microwave techniques and electromagnetic theory.
• Active SC Clearance.
• Sole British National status due to project security requirements.

Required skills

• RF and microwave subsystem design.
• RF system integration and testing.
• Vector Network Analyzer, spectrum analyser and signal generation equipment operation.
• Microwave simulation and design tools.
• GaAs and GaN technologies.
• Passive microwave structures design.
• Low phase‑noise design and measurement.
• Technical report writing and design reviews.
• Product lifecycle management.

What we offer

• £68 per hour, Inside IR35.
• Initial 12‑month contract.
• Hybrid working arrangement with 3‑4 days per week onsite in Edinburgh.
• Opportunity to work on one of the UK's most advanced defence technology programmes.
• Collaborative environment with exposure to cutting‑edge radar and RF technologies.