Graduate Microwave Engineer

Leonardo UK Ltd; England; Hybrid; GBP 34,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology company in the UK is seeking graduates for their 18-month Graduate Programme in RF and microwave technologies. You'll work on real-world projects alongside experts and receive a starting salary of £34,000 plus bonuses. The role involves designing & testing high-performance systems, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and innovation. Applicants should have a relevant degree and a passion for technology.

Benefits

Generous leave

Pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution

Mental health support

Employee bonus scheme

Employee Stock Ownership Plan

Flexible benefits up to £500 annually

Qualifications

• Minimum 2:2 degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Physics, or similar.
• Strong interest in microwave and RF design.
• Familiarity with design tools is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop RF and microwave circuits operating up to 40 GHz.
• Use simulation tools for design optimization.
• Collaborate with teams to integrate RF components.
• Test and evaluate designs in labs.
• Prepare documentation and present findings.

Skills

Microwave design

RF design

Simulation tools

Education

Bachelor’s, Integrated Master’s, or higher degree in relevant subjects

Tools

CST

Job description

Job Description

Are you ready to launch your career and make an impact on real‑world projects from day one? At Leonardo we are looking for graduates who want to be part of something bigger—shaping innovation, advancing technology, and enhancing global safety.

You will work on cutting‑edge microwave and RF technologies that protect fast jets, UAVs, naval and land platforms.

The 18‑month Graduate Programme gives you the opportunity to work on exciting and challenging projects alongside subject‑matter experts.

On joining, you will receive a starting salary of £34,000 per annum, plus a £1,000 welcome bonus. You’ll also be eligible for a £1,000 exit bonus upon successful completion of the programme. In addition, you may be eligible for a Temporary Accommodation Allowance (TAA), subject to specific criteria.

We encourage you to spend at least three days each week on site to integrate with your team and maximise your learning experience.

During the programme, you will:

Join a team of expert engineers designing and testing high-performance RF and microwave systems. Your work will span simulation, development, and integration of critical components for electronic warfare applications.

Key responsibilities include:

• Designing and developing RF and microwave circuits and systems operating up to 40 GHz.
• Using simulation tools to optimise designs for performance and environmental resilience.
• Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to integrate RF components into larger systems.
• Testing and evaluating designs in laboratory environments.
• Preparing technical documentation and presenting findings to stakeholders.

What you’ll bring:

• A minimum 2:2 Bachelor’s, Integrated Master’s, or higher degree (MSc/PhD) in a relevant subject such as Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Physics, Engineering Physics, Applied Physics, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Communications, Space or Robotics Engineering, Computer Communication and Networks, or Cyber Security.
• A strong interest in microwave and RF design.
• Familiarity with design tools (e.g. CST) is desirable but not essential – training will be provided.

Security Clearance

This role is subject to pre‑employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). An additional range of Personnel Security Controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) will apply, including eligibility for The Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV).

Why join us

At Leonardo, our people are at the heart of everything we do, key contributors in shaping innovation, advancing technology, and enhancing global safety. We offer a comprehensive, company-funded benefits package that supports your wellbeing, career development, and work‑life balance. Whether you’re looking to grow professionally, care for your health, or plan for the future, we’re here to help you thrive.

• Time to recharge: Enjoy generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi‑days each year.
• Secure your future: Benefit from our award‑winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
• Your wellbeing matters: Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee‑led networks championing inclusion and diversity.
• Rewarding performance: All employees are eligible for our bonus scheme.
• Join in our success: Our Employee Stock Ownership Plan provides you the opportunity to own shares in Leonardo.
• Tailored perks: Spend up to £500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more.

For a full list of our company benefits, please visit https://careers.uk.leonardo.com/gb/en/company-benefits

We are committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace. We believe that a diverse workforce sparks creativity, drives innovation, and leads to better outcomes for our people, communities and our customers. If you have any accessibility requirements to support you during the recruitment process, just let us know.

Be part of something bigger – apply now!

Primary Location

GB – Luton – Cap. Green 300

Contract Type

Permanent

Hybrid Working

Hybrid