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Posted 01 August, 2026

Principal RF Engineer HWIL

Guidant Global
Watford, ENG, GB Full Time

Job Description

Principal RF Engineer HWIL / RF Test & Simulation

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Stevenage | £65£75 per hour | Long-term contract

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Were supporting a leading UK defence organisation looking to bring in a Principal RF Engineer to join their specialist Hardware-in-the-Loop (HWIL) team.

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This is a hands-on, lab-based role working with advanced RF systems, real-time simulation environments, and live hardware integration supporting some of the most complex missile test programmes in the UK.

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What youll be doing

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  • Design, develop and test RF systems within HWIL environments
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  • Integrate RF hardware into real-time simulation platforms
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  • Troubleshoot and resolve complex system/interface issues
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  • Carry out system-level performance analysis and optimisation
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  • Work closely with software, electronics and systems teams
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  • Support validation of missile system behaviour in controlled test environments
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What were looking for

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Essential:

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  • Strong background in RF design, development & test
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  • Experience working with RF test equipment (e.g. spectrum analysers, VNAs)
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  • Strong system integration, debugging & troubleshooting experience
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  • Experience working in complex or real-time environments
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Desirable:

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  • Linux experience
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  • C++ knowledge
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  • Microcontrollers within RF environments (e.g. Raspberry Pi)
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Why this role

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  • Work in a true lab-based engineering environment with access to cutting-edge equipment
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  • Opportunity to contribute to full-system testing (HWIL) as close as it gets to live firing
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  • Join a high-performing, specialist team working on complex defence programmes
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What happens now?Upon submission of your application, should it meet our selection criteria, you will be contacted via e-mail by one of our talent acquisition specialists to arrange a screening call. This telephone chat is structured to explore a series of questions aimed at matching your competencies and capabilities to the specific demands of the position. Please note, this screening is contingent upon the initial success of your application.\n
Security Clearance: British Citizen or a Dual UK national with British citizenshipRestrictions and/or limitations relating to nationality and/or rights to work may apply. As a minimum and after offer stage, all successful candidates will need to undergo HMG Basic Personnel Security Standard checks (BPSS), which are managed by our clients Security Team.\n
More about the role:Our clients relationship with the UK military spans back over 70 years. They have delivered countless landmarks in defence engineering, supplying vital defence capability to meet the needs of the armed forces over land, sea, and air.\n
This role is based at their headquarters in Stevenage which plays a key part in missiles operations. The site also offers excellent transportation links and boasts an onsite gym and coffee shop.\n
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