Antenna Systems Engineer

Contechs; England; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment consultancy is seeking an Antenna Systems Engineer for a contract position in the UK. This role involves designing, developing, and validating vehicle antenna systems for connectivity and infotainment. Candidates must have a degree in Electrical or RF Engineering, along with extensive experience in automotive antenna systems. Strong technical skills in RF simulation and collaboration with cross-functional teams are necessary. If selected, you will play a vital role in ensuring optimal RF performance across various vehicle platforms.

Qualifications

• 3-10+ years of experience in automotive antenna systems, RF engineering, or wireless systems.
• Strong understanding of RF fundamentals and automotive antenna integration.
• Experience working within OEM or Tier-1 automotive development processes.

Responsibilities

• Define vehicle antenna system architecture for various technologies.
• Collaborate with vehicle architecture and styling teams.
• Lead integration of antenna systems into vehicle platforms.
• Ensure electromagnetic compatibility among multiple RF systems.
• Support integration with various vehicle modules.

Skills

Antenna systems for automotive applications (AM/FM, GNSS, cellular, V2X, etc.)

RF simulation tools (e.g., HFSS, CST, FEKO)

RF measurement and test methods (VNA, spectrum analyzer, OTA testing)

Knowledge of EMC/EMI principles and regulatory standards

Familiarity with automotive networks and ECUs related to connectivity systems

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, Communications, or related field

Job description

Duration: Contract

Location: Surrey / Warwickshire / Oxfordshire

*Applicants MUST have proof of immediate, on‑going and valid eligibility to work full time in the UK and travel within the EU.*

Job Summary:

Antenna Systems Engineer is responsible for the design, development, integration, and validation of vehicle antenna systems supporting connectivity, infotainment, telematics, ADAS, and V2X functions. This role ensures optimal RF performance across vehicle platforms while meeting OEM requirements for styling, packaging, cost, quality, and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Define vehicle antenna system architecture for AM/FM/DAB, GNSS, LTE/5G, Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, V2X, satellite radio, and keyless entry.
• Collaborate with vehicle architecture, body, and styling teams to balance RF performance and design constraints.
• Lead integration of antenna systems into vehicle platforms, including grounding, cabling, connectors, and placement.
• Ensure coexistence and electromagnetic compatibility among multiple RF systems.
• Support integration of antennas with modules such as TCU, IVI, ADAS ECUs, and keyless systems.
• Define and execute antenna and RF DV/PV plans at component and vehicle level.
• Support anechoic chamber, drive testing, OTA testing, and regulatory certification.
• Lead root‑cause analysis and resolution of RF performance issues.
• Manage Tier‑1 and Tier‑2 antenna and RF suppliers.
• Define technical specifications, review designs, and support DFMEA/PFMEA activities.
• Ensure supplier solutions meet OEM targets for performance, cost, quality, and timing.
• Support vehicle program milestones from concept through SOP.
• Manage engineering changes and issue resolution during builds and launch.
• Support manufacturing, service, and aftersales documentation.

RF Performance & Simulation:

• Perform RF simulations and modelling (e.g., EM solvers) to predict antenna performance.
• Define performance targets such as gain, efficiency, isolation, radiation patterns, and diversity/MIMO performance.
• Support antenna tuning and optimization at component and vehicle level.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, Communications, or related field.
• 3‑10+ years of experience in automotive antenna systems, RF engineering, or wireless systems.
• Strong understanding of RF fundamentals and automotive antenna integration.
• Experience working within OEM or Tier‑1 automotive development processes.

Technical Skills:

• Antenna systems for automotive applications (AM/FM, GNSS, cellular, V2X, etc.).
• RF simulation tools (e.g., HFSS, CST, FEKO).
• RF measurement and test methods (VNA, spectrum analyzer, OTA testing).
• Knowledge of EMC/EMI principles and regulatory standards.
• Familiarity with automotive networks and ECUs related to connectivity systems.

Soft Skills:

• Strong cross‑functional collaboration and communication skills.
• Structured problem‑solving and analytical mindset.
• Ability to manage multiple programs and technical trade‑offs.
• Attention to detail and system‑level thinking.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with 5G, MIMO, beamforming, or V2X systems.
• Knowledge of global RF regulatory standards (FCC, CE, ETSI, etc.).
• Experience with EV platforms and challenges related to RF noise.
• Exposure to advanced materials, glass antennas, or conformal antennas.

Why work through Contechs?

Contechs is a leading Automotive, Design, Engineering, Technology and Innovation Recruitment Consultancy. Founded in 1997, with an in‑house Contractor Care Team to support all external employees, acts as an employment agency for permanent and contract recruitment.

How to Apply

If you’re interested in applying for this position, submit your application and one of our recruiters will be in touch.

If you know anyone that is suitable for the role, please visit the below page where we offer up to £600 referral fee: https://www.contechs.com/refer