IC Resources
Radio Frequency Test Engineer
Get notified of more jobs like this · No spam, ever
How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
RF Test Engineer
Bristol | Hybrid | Permanent
We’re working with a growing defence technology company developing advanced RF sensing and communications systems for demanding operational environments.
They’re looking for an RF Test Engineer to take ownership of how RF systems are validated and characterised, from early hardware bring-up through to structured product validation.
The Role
This is not simply a role running predefined test procedures.
You’ll be given RF systems and signal chains, understand how they are supposed to perform, determine what needs to be tested, and develop the test approach to prove it.
You’ll be responsible for:
- Developing RF test strategies and writing test plans and procedures from scratch
- Characterising RF performance including sensitivity, gain, noise figure, dynamic range and bandwidth
- Building and running test setups using VNAs, spectrum analysers, signal generators and oscilloscopes
- Automating measurements and instrument control, typically using Python and/or SCPI
- Supporting RF hardware bring-up, debugging and root-cause investigation
- Analysing results and feeding findings back into RF, hardware and systems engineering
- Developing repeatable validation and regression testing as products mature
Reasons to use Rodeo
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
It searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
The work covers complete RF systems and signal chains rather than purely component-level or production pass/fail testing.
What They're Looking For
You’ll need strong hands-on RF test, validation or characterisation experience, but more importantly, you should be comfortable defining the test rather than being given the test sheet.
Relevant experience could include:
- RF validation, characterisation or test development
- Developing RF test plans and procedures
- Python, SCPI, LabVIEW or similar test automation
- RF system and signal-chain measurements
- SDR, communications, radar or mixed-signal systems
- Hardware bring-up and RF debugging
Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Experience within defence, aerospace or secure communications would be useful but isn't essential.
Why Consider It?
You’ll have genuine ownership of RF validation rather than operating as a routine lab test engineer. The work spans early development, characterisation and product validation, with the results directly influencing how the underlying RF systems are designed and improved.
The role requires a minimum of 3 days per week onsite in Bristol due to the hands-on lab work. Candidates must be eligible for UK SC clearance.
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills
Location