Principal RF Engineer

Principal RF Engineer
Client: BAE Systems
Location: Cowes or Great Baddow
Duration: 6 months with potential for extension
Hourly Rate: £60 PAYE or £81.05 Umbrella
Working Arrangements: Mon – Thurs on site
  
The Role
We are seeking a Principal RF Engineer to provide technical expertise in the design and development of Radio Frequency (RF) hardware systems. This senior role will involve developing RF solutions for both new products and upgrades to existing systems, as well as supporting integration and testing activities within complex engineering environments.
You may also act as an RF technical lead at subsystem or Line Replacement Unit (LRU) level, contributing to key engineering decisions across programmes.
  
Key Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership and guidance on RF engineering matters.
• Develop RF system and circuit designs from concept through to delivery.
• Perform RF and electromagnetic simulation and analysis.
• Support design verification, testing, and system integration activities.
• Specify bespoke and COTS hardware components.
• Produce and review technical documentation and reports.
• Work closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams including systems, mechanical, manufacturing, and safety.
• Degree in Electronic Engineering or a related discipline.

Knowledge & Experience

• Strong experience in RF technologies, architectures, and circuit design.
• Experience using RF simulation tools (e.g. ADS, HFSS, or similar).
• Background in integration, testing, and design verification.

Desirable:

• Experience in defence or high safety-integrity environments.
• Knowledge of radar or sensing systems.

Security Requirements
Applicants must be able to achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance. Some roles may require higher levels of UK National Security Vetting.