Radio Frequency Design Engineer

Role Overview We are looking for an experienced RF Design Engineer to join our Counter-Drone Systems engineering team. The successful candidate will play a key role in designing, developing, integrating, and validating RF and microwave subsystems used in advanced Counter-UAS and Electronic Warfare solutions. This role requires expertise in RF front-end architecture, microwave circuit design, RF PCB development, transmitter and receiver systems, antenna interfaces, and defence-grade RF hardware. You will collaborate closely with Radar, Embedded Systems, FPGA, Signal Processing, Mechanical, and Software teams to develop production-ready defence systems. Key Responsibilities RF System Design Design RF front-end architectures for Counter-Drone and Electronic Warfare systems. Develop multi-band RF transmitter and receiver chains. Design RF modules including: Low Noise Amplifiers (LNA) Power Amplifiers (PA) Mixers Filters Couplers Duplexers Frequency Synthesizers Perform RF link budget analysis and optimize overall system performance. Support RF architecture definition and subsystem design reviews. RF Hardware Development Design RF PCBs and microwave hardware assemblies. Select RF components based on performance, reliability, and manufacturability. Review schematics and PCB layouts for RF integrity. Ensure compliance with EMC/EMI requirements and defence environmental standards. Support prototype development, manufacturing, and production release activities. RF Testing & Validation Perform RF characterization and testing using: Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) Spectrum Analyzer Signal Generator Power Meter Oscilloscope Develop RF test procedures and support automation where applicable. Conduct subsystem integration, debugging, and performance optimization. Support ATP, FAT, SAT, and customer acceptance testing. System Integration Integrate RF subsystems with: Radar Systems Antenna Systems Electronic Warfare payloads Signal Processing Modules Embedded Systems FPGA Platforms Command & Control Software Participate in laboratory evaluations, outdoor field trials, and customer demonstrations. Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to ensure seamless system integration. Documentation & Compliance Prepare RF design specifications and technical documentation. Generate validation reports and engineering test records. Develop Interface Control Documents (ICDs). Maintain configuration management and engineering change documentation. Support certification, qualification, and production documentation. Required Qualifications Essential Minimum 8 years of hands-on experience in RF and Microwave Design. Strong understanding of RF system architecture and RF front-end design. Experience designing RF transmitter and receiver subsystems. Proficiency in RF simulation and design tools: ADS (Advanced Design System) HFSS CST Studio Suite Microwave Office Experience in RF PCB design and microwave circuit implementation. Hands-on experience with RF laboratory instruments including VNA, Spectrum Analyzer, Signal Generator, and Power Meter. Strong knowledge of Microwave Engineering principles. Understanding of EMC/EMI standards and RF compliance testing. Experience in defence, aerospace, or other high-reliability RF systems. Preferred Skills Experience in one or more of the following areas is highly desirable: Counter-Drone (C-UAS) Systems Radar Systems Electronic Warfare (EW) SIGINT / ELINT Systems Defence Communication Systems Software Defined Radio (SDR) FPGA-based RF Platforms Military Communication Equipment Desired Competencies Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Ability to troubleshoot complex RF and microwave systems. Excellent collaboration and communication skills. Experience working in multidisciplinary product development environments. Ability to work effectively under demanding project timelines.