Antenna Engineer

HMGCC; Milton Keynes; Hybrid; GBP 53,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

A government communications centre in Milton Keynes is seeking an Antenna Engineer to design and test antennas for modern communication systems. You will work on innovative solutions and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to solve complex engineering challenges. The ideal candidate will have a relevant degree or extensive experience in RF engineering or electronic engineering, and strong communication skills. This role offers flexible working hours, extensive development opportunities, and competitive benefits.

Benefits

Free 24-hour gym

Secure parking

On-site café and restaurant

Paid charity days

Competitive government pension scheme

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in designing and testing bespoke antennas.
• Practical skills in antenna construction and using hand tools.
• Familiarity with network and spectrum analysers used in antenna design.

Responsibilities

• Design, build and test antennas for modern communication systems.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on hardware products.
• Dedicate time to research and innovation.

Skills

Hands-on experience in designing antennas

Practical skills in antenna construction

Familiarity with network and spectrum analysers

Strong written communication skills

Ability to collaborate effectively

Education

Degree in RF engineering, RF communications, electronic engineering, maths, or physics

Tools

Simulation tools (HFSS or CST)

Job description

Antenna Engineer

Location: Hanslope Park, near Milton Keynes

Salary: £53,761

Hours: Full time, 37 hours per week or part-time, minimum 30 hours. Flexible/compressed working patterns available.

We are HMGCC, His Majesty's Government Communications Centre, the engineering specialists at the heart of the UK’s national security. If you have the skills and determination to take on unique technical challenges, you’ll discover opportunities here that you won’t find anywhere else.

Your role

You’ll design, build and test antennas for modern communication systems, helping us solve complex engineering challenges that protect national security. From modifying existing designs to creating completely new, innovative solutions, you’ll work on hardware products like no other. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, you’ll also share ideas and dedicate time to research and innovation – so you’re always on top of your game. This is a role where you’ll gain unique insights into cutting‑edge technology doing work you won’t find anywhere else.

What you need

You’ll have hands‑on experience in designing and testing bespoke antennas to meet specifications and standards, along with practical skills in antenna construction and confidence using hand tools. You’ll also be familiar with network and spectrum analysers and other measurement systems used in antenna design. Ideally, you’ll bring a relevant degree or experience in RF engineering, RF communications, electronic engineering, maths or physics, and it would be beneficial if you have knowledge of RF design using simulation tools such as HFSS or CST. You could come from a sector such as telecommunications, aerospace, automotive or medical device manufacturing – but that’s not essential; what is essential are your strong written communication skills, the ability to document work clearly, collaborate effectively within teams, and remain open to feedback and continuous improvement.

What we offer

As well as joining a collaborative and inclusive environment where your ideas and expertise make a real impact on national security, you’ll also benefit from extensive development opportunities, including short internal courses, distance learning degrees and dedicated mentoring and coaching. Our on‑site facilities are designed to support your wellbeing and work‑life balance, with a free 24‑hour gym, secure parking, an on‑site café and restaurant, and a nursery (subject to availability). We also foster a strong sense of community through affinity groups for disability, LGBTQIA+, and ethnic minority communities, as well as sports and social societies. Plus, you’ll receive three paid charity days each year to give back in ways that matter to you. Alongside these benefits, we offer a competitive government pension scheme, paid overtime or time off in lieu, and an interest‑free relocation loan if needed – everything you need to thrive in your role and grow your career.

About HMGCC

We are HMGCC, the engineering specialists at the heart of the UK’s national security. We work with the national security community, UK government, academia, private sector partners and international allies to bring engineering ingenuity to the national security mission, creating tools and technologies that drive us ahead and help to protect the nation. We invest in our people, not only with training but also support throughout your career with us; to allow you to reach your full potential at work, as well as enjoy the work/life balance many aspire to.

Apply now

To find out more and apply, please click on the apply button.

Inclusion and diversity really matter to us. It's not just about hitting targets or visible differences. HMGCC are committed to providing equal opportunities and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations, and those with disabilities or who are neurodivergent.

We’re not looking for any one type of person. We’re looking for talent from all different backgrounds to join our organisation, where we genuinely respect and value each other's differences, as well as our similarities. It makes us even better at what we do.