They work with leading international OEMs as well as mobile network operators, delivering tailored RF solutions to meet complex performance requirements. Their long-term strategy is to remain at the forefront of RF electronics by leveraging proprietary technologies, engineering expertise, and strong global customer relationships.
Broadband Division
Our client's Broadband division is a world-class designer and manufacturer of microwave and millimetre-wave products for telecoms, defence, and security markets, based in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, UK. The business also provides build-to-print manufacturing services from its advanced, highly automated UK facility.
Key capabilities include:
Design and manufacture of microwave and millimetre-wave transceiver modules
Development of filters and diplexers
Custom MMIC design for multi-chip modules and advanced packaging
Design for manufacture and cost optimisation services
High-precision hybrid and surface-mount manufacturing
Design and manufacture of microwave and millimetre-wave transceiver modules
Development of filters and diplexers
Custom MMIC design for multi-chip modules and advanced packaging
Design for manufacture and cost optimisation services
High-precision hybrid and surface-mount manufacturing
The division benefits from vertically integrated MMIC design and manufacturing, enabling faster time-to-market and highly competitive high-frequency products. Customers benefit from the co-location of design and production at a world-class facility in Newton Aycliffe, UK, ensuring efficiency, quality, and scalability.
With strong quality processes, advanced automation, and proven delivery to over 60 countries, the business supports high-reliability, high-mix production across demanding sectors
Job Overview
Our client is seeking a Principal RF Engineer to join their growing engineering team in County Durham, UK. This role offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge RF and mmWave products, from initial concept through to full production, within a state-of-the-art facility.
The successful Principal RF Engineer will play a key role in the design, development, and delivery of innovative solutions across telecommunications and defence applications.
Purpose of the Role
The Principal RF Engineer will be responsible for leading the design of RF and mmWave systems, ensuring performance, quality, cost, and manufacturability requirements are met. The role also involves providing technical leadership, supporting project delivery, and driving engineering best practice
Key Responsibilities
Lead the design and development of RF/mmWave circuits, subsystems, and systems
Take ownership of RF specifications, simulation, realisation, and validation
Provide technical leadership and mentoring to engineering teams
Conduct system line-up and tolerance analysis, ensuring design for manufacture
Support component and MMIC selection, liaising with suppliers where required
Collaborate closely with mechanical, electronics, PCB, manufacturing, and test teams
Produce and review technical documentation, including design records and release data
Lead design reviews, identifying and mitigating technical risks
Support verification, validation, and reliability testing activities
Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues during development and production
Deliver designs in line with project timelines, cost targets, and technical requirements
Requirements
Degree (or equivalent) in RF, Microwave, Electronics, or Communications Engineering
Significant experience in RF/mmWave circuit or system design
Strong proficiency with RF design tools such as ADS, CST, Microwave Office, or EMPro
Solid understanding of microwave circuit design, system analysis, and design for manufacture
Experience with transceivers, amplifiers, filters, or subsystem design is advantageous
Proven ability to lead technical activities and mentor engineers
Strong problem-solving skills with a practical engineering approach
Excellent communication skills and ability to work across cross-functional teams
Benefits
Private medical insurance
Save As You Earn share scheme (£500 invested over 2 years at a discounted rate, held for 3 years)
Pension scheme with up to 8% employer contribution (plus 2% match structure)
Electric vehicle scheme (salary sacrifice)
Cycle to work programme
15 days annual leave + bank holidays, with option to purchase 5 extra days
4x life assurance and income protection
Relocation Support
UK: Up to £5,000
International: Up to £8,000
Support covers relocation expenses such as removals, transport, and up to 3 months of temporary accommodation(excludes furniture/appliances)
Salary description
£80000.00 - £85000.00 per year