Chief Engineer - Directed Energy / High Power RF

Chief Engineer - High Power RF / Directed Energy Location: Chelmsford, Essex (Hybrid - 2 days onsite) Rate: £800 - £1000 per day (Inside IR35) SC Cleared 12 Month Contract Overview We are seeking a highly experienced Chief Engineer to act as a technical authority within high-power RF and directed energy systems. This is not a traditional delivery role tied to a single product. Instead, you will operate across a portfolio of customer-funded research and development programmes, shaping capability, guiding technical direction, and supporting the development of next-generation high-power sub-systems. Due to the specialist nature of the work, we are open to individuals looking for either a permanent position or a short-term/advisory engagement. The Role You will provide technical leadership across high-power and RF sub-systems, supporting activity from early concept through to demonstration and low-rate production. Key responsibilities include: Acting as the technical authority for high-power / RF sub-systems Guiding and supervising the development of directed energy technologies Supporting the definition, shaping, and delivery of R&D programmes Engaging with customers, partners, and stakeholders across the defence ecosystem Influencing future capability and technology direction Mentoring and developing early-career engineersThis role sits within a fast-paced, research-led environment where the ability to operate with ambiguity and define solutions is essential. About You You may come from academia, government, defence, or relevant commercial industry, but you will be recognised as a subject matter expert in your field. You will bring: A strong network across defence, including experience engaging with government stakeholders, user communities, or supply chain organisations The ability to influence technical direction and translate operational needs into engineering solutions Experience working across the full lifecycle from concept through to demonstration or production Essential Skills and Experience Deep understanding of the physics underpinning high-power systems, including RF and directed energy applications Experience in the design, development, or assessment of high-power sub-systems (e.g. power electronics, power supplies, RF sources) Strong knowledge of modelling and simulation techniques, including their practical limitations Experience with measurement, testing, and validation of high-power systems Ability to operate as a technical authority, providing oversight and challenge to engineering teams Desirable Experience Background in high-power microwave (HPM), pulsed power, or electromagnetics Experience within defence R&D or related sectors (e.g. sensing, communications, electronic warfare) Involvement in customer-funded research programmes or framework delivery Why Apply This is a rare opportunity to shape emerging high-power and directed energy capabilities within a cutting-edge research environment. You will work at the forefront of technology development, influencing both technical direction and future programmes, while supporting the growth of engineering capability within the team