A waveguide circulator comprising at least three waveguide arms intersecting at a junction, wherein the junction has an upper inner surface and a lower inner surface; and a ferrite element positioned within a recess formed within one of the upper inner surface and the lower inner surface of the junction, the ferrite element including a first portion that projects into the junction and a second portion that extends into the recess. A projection extends from an upper outer surface of the junction opposite the upper inner surface of the junction, the projection being positioned opposite the recess formed on the upper inner surface of the junction. In use, the ferrite element is magnetized by applying a magnetic field thereto using a magnet or electromagnet shaped for matingly engaging the projection. A method for manufacturing a waveguide circulator of the type described above is also provided.