RF Planning Engineer – In Building Wireless Systems

Location: Horsham, West Sussex (On-Site)

Contract: Permanent Employee or contractor positions available

Start date: As soon as possible

About us

Metricell is on a mission to revolutionise connectivity. We partner with telecommunications companies to design, deliver, and manage wireless communication networks, all with a shared goal of achieving flawless network experiences.

For nearly twenty years, we have been at the forefront of network connectivity, providing innovative solutions that empower governments, network operators, and blue-chip businesses worldwide to become ‘better connected’. More recently, we have pioneered the use of Artificial Intelligence to develop and enhance our tools.

About the role

We are seeking an experienced RF Planning Engineer to design and optimise in-building wireless coverage systems for commercial, enterprise, and public-venue environments. The successful candidate will be responsible for the planning, modelling, and design of indoor cellular networks, including Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) and small-cell / digital indoor systems, ensuring high-quality coverage and capacity for modern mobile networks.

The role requires strong expertise with professional RF planning tools such as Ranplan or iBwave, along with a solid understanding of indoor propagation, multi-band cellular technologies, and real-world deployment constraints.

Why Metricell?

At Metricell, we create an environment where people feel empowered to do meaningful work that makes a real impact. From helping to improve mobile connectivity in rural areas to delivering cutting-edge solutions to global clients, the work we do is both purposeful and rewarding.

We believe the best results come from collaboration, so we’ve built a culture of open communication, shared goals, and mutual support. Our people describe a relaxed yet results-driven atmosphere where curiosity and continuous learning are actively encouraged. You’ll be part of a team that values innovation, takes pride in progress, and is committed to growing together.

We’re proud to play an active role in both our industry and our community. From charity partnerships to supporting local education through work placements, we believe in making a positive difference beyond the workplace. At Metricell, Better Connected means creating strong links between our people, our customers, and the wider world around us.

Key Responsibilities

• Design in-building wireless coverage systems for LTE and 5G networks, including DAS, small-cell, and digital indoor radio solutions.
• Develop detailed RF designs using tools such as Ranplan, iBwave, or similar indoor propagation modelling platforms.
• Produce coverage predictions, capacity analysis, and interference studies for indoor environments.
• Perform link budget calculations and determine optimal node placement for radios, antennas, or small cells.
• Analyse building floorplans and construction materials to model indoor propagation characteristics accurately.
• Design systems supporting multiple frequency bands and technologies (e.g., 700/800/1800/2100/2600/3500 MHz).
• Produce detailed RF design documentation, including node layouts, cable routing guidance, and system specifications.
• Collaborate with site acquisition, deployment, and field engineering teams to ensure designs are implementable.
• Support post-deployment validation, including walk testing, KPI analysis, and optimisation.
• Ensure compliance with operator design standards, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.
• Provide technical support during pre-sales, design reviews, and project delivery phases.

Essential

• Proven experience in RF planning and design for indoor cellular systems.
• Hands-on experience with Ranplan, iBwave, or equivalent indoor RF planning tools.
• Strong understanding of RF propagation in indoor environments.
• Experience designing DAS, small-cell, or digital indoor radio systems.
• Knowledge of LTE and 5G NR radio technologies, including MIMO, carrier aggregation, and multi-band deployments.
• Ability to perform link budgets, coverage analysis, and capacity planning.
• Experience interpreting architectural floorplans and building layouts.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Full UK Driving licence

Desirable

• Degree in Telecommunications Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related discipline.
• Experience with indoor small-cell platforms.
• Familiarity with RF measurement tools (e.g., TEMS, Nemo, Accuver).
• Knowledge of neutral-host or multi-operator indoor systems.
• Experience with transport design and PoE / fibre infrastructure considerations.
• Understanding of network optimisation and performance KPIs.

Personal Attributes

• Strong attention to detail and engineering rigour.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects.
• Excellent communication skills for working with multidisciplinary teams.
• Ability to translate complex RF concepts into practical deployment solutions.

Benefits (For employees)

• Additional day off for your Birthday
• 2 days volunteering leave
• 25 days annual leave (plus public holidays)
• Full office closure between Christmas and New Year
• Refer a Friend Scheme

Following your successful probationary period (For employees)

• Private Health Care (including hearing, sight and dental)
• Bike2Work Salary Sacrifice Scheme
• Interest-Free Season Ticket Loan

We also have

• Gym, showers and games room
• Prayer / Quiet room
• Regular social events
• Charity and fundraising events
• Free onsite parking at our Horsham office

Ready to start your career with us?

If you’re excited by the opportunity to join a collaborative, forward-thinking team and play a key role in delivering impactful solutions to global clients, we’d love to hear from you.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

We are committed to creating an inclusive working environment where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

Requirements added by the job poster

• Commute to this job’s location

• No need for visa sponsorship

• Working in an onsite setting

• Authorized to work in United Kingdom