Chief Engineer (Space & Defence)

Please note: For this role, all candidates must be able to pass the UK Security Clearance (SC) vetting process. To obtain further information on this, please click hereWe are open to a hybrid, remote or onsite work pattern for this important role which supports our accomplished, high performing global business development team.Filtronic plc is a leading designer and manufacturer of high-performance radio frequency (RF), microwave, and millimetre-wave (mmWave) subsystems, specialising in mission-critical communication networks. Since 1977, we have built a strong reputation as trusted partners to global technology leaders across the telecommunications infrastructure, aerospace and defence, space, and critical communications sectors. Our legacy of innovation and engineering excellence has positioned us at the forefront of advanced connectivity solutions worldwide, and we continue to grow as we deliver cutting-edge technology for some of the most exciting programmes in the industry.We design and deliver a broad portfolio of products including transceivers, power amplifiers, filters, and custom solutions operating up to 175 GHz. Our technologies play a key role in enabling high-capacity 5G backhaul, satellite communications, and secure defence systems. Recent collaborations, including our work with SpaceX, highlight our capability to provide world-class solutions for next-generation satellite networks. Alongside our product innovation, we offer fully integrated services spanning design, manufacturing, and testing, supported by advanced hybrid manufacturing and microelectronic assembly. Joining Filtronic plc means becoming part of a team that combines decades of RF expertise with a collaborative, forward-thinking approach to solving complex communication challenges.We are seeking to appoint TWO highly skilled Solutions Architects to lead our technical proposition development for the Space & Defence sectors. These pivotal roles, working with our accomplished, high performing global business development team, combine strategic marketing insight with deep technical understanding to craft compelling bid responses and capability narratives that resonate with government agencies, defence primes, and satellite system integrators.The Chief Engineer role will articulate our value proposition, shaping technical content for proposals, and guiding the development of our RF product capability strategy in alignment with customer and market needs. Working at the intersection of engineering, business development, and strategic marketing, you will position Filtronic as a partner of choice for space and defence programmes.RequirementsLead Technical Bids & ProposalsOwn the technical response strategy for major bids (e.g., ESA, MOD, NATO, commercial primes)Translate complex engineering capabilities into winning proposal contentCollaborate with engineering and commercial teams to ensure proposal alignment with customer requirements and compliance criteriaMarket-Driven Capability DevelopmentDefine and refine RF product capabilities based on market needs and programme trends in space and defenceConduct competitive analysis and gather customer intelligence to steer R&D investment prioritiesTechnical Marketing & PositioningDevelop and maintain compelling product collateral, capability briefs, and white papers that demonstrate our strengths in RF innovationRepresent the company at industry events, trade shows, and technical forums to promote brand awareness and market relevanceStrategic Customer EngagementAct as a technical advisor to key customers, ensuring alignment with both short-term project needs and long-term strategic roadmapsBuild and sustain trusted relationships with procurement, engineering, and programme teams within major customersProduct Strategy InputProvide market and customer insights to influence the product development lifecycle and go-to-market strategiesChampion the voice of the customer in internal product planning discussionsDegree in RF Engineering, Electronics, Physics, or equivalent technical discipline (Master's or PhD advantageous)Significant experience in RF/microwave systems, technical product management, or bid leadership in the space or defence sectorsProven success in writing or contributing to complex, high-value technical proposals for major programmes or frameworks (e.g., ESA, UK MOD, NATO, large defence primes)Strong understanding of RF subsystems, including amplifiers, filters, and integrated modules for aerospace or secure communication systemsExperience bridging technical and commercial domains in a customer-facing roleDesirable to haveFamiliarity with UK/US export control regulations (ITAR, EAR, UK Export Control)Knowledge of software-defined or digitally enhanced RF systemsMust haveExceptional technical writing and communication skills, with a proven ability to distil complex ideas into clear, compelling messagingStrong strategic thinking with commercial awarenessExcellent collaboration skills; able to work across functions and manage inputs from diverse technical teamsOrganised, deadline-driven, and able to manage multiple bid timelines concurrentlyHigh attention to detail, with a commitment to proposal quality and complianceBenefitsWe recognise the value of exceptional talent. That's why this role is backed by an outstanding salary with bonus and benefits benchmarked close to the top of the sector.Please call Bruce Mair, our Talent Partner, on 07483 917543 (anytime) if you would like further details on this important role, or to clarify the salary and benefits package - and what success in this role looks like to us - before investing your time in applying. Every call is answered, and every voicemail or message is responded to.Filtronic plc is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or disability status. If you require any adjustments or accommodations to support you during the interview process, please let us know and we will be happy to assist.