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Associate Rf Engineer Jobs in Columbia, MD (NOW HIRING)

Associate Degree or higher in Electrical Engineering discipline or demonstrated PCB layout skillset * 7+ years of experience with multi-layer PCB layout, including prototyping, SMT, RF, mixed signal ...

Associate Degree or higher in Electrical Engineering discipline or demonstrated PCB layout skillset * 7+ years of experience with multi-layer PCB layout, including prototyping, SMT, RF, mixed signal ...

... RF and Broadband architectures, as well as essential network infrastructure. Key Duties and ... Associate's Degree, EET, Technical Certification, Project Management Certification, IT ...

Showing results 21-40

Associate Rf Engineer information

See Columbia, MD salary details

$40.9K

$81.3K

$129.9K

How much do associate rf engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate rf engineer in Columbia, MD is $81,342.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,500.00 and $93,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate RF engineer?

Associate RF Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in the design, implementation, and maintenance of radio frequency (RF) systems and equipment. They typically work under the supervision of senior RF engineers to help optimize wireless communication networks, troubleshoot signal issues, and ensure regulatory compliance. Their duties may include performing site surveys, analyzing RF coverage, and supporting the deployment of wireless infrastructure. This role often requires a background in electrical engineering or a related field, and familiarity with RF testing tools and software.

What are some typical challenges an associate RF engineer may face when working on wireless network projects?

As an Associate RF Engineer, you may encounter challenges such as optimizing signal coverage in complex environments, mitigating interference between frequency bands, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Working closely with senior engineers and field technicians, you'll frequently analyze drive test data, adjust network parameters, and troubleshoot coverage gaps. Collaboration with cross-functional teams is essential, as projects often require input from design, operations, and customer support to deliver reliable and efficient wireless networks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate RF engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate RF Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, RF principles, and telecommunications, typically supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with RF simulation tools (like CST or HFSS), spectrum analyzers, and network analyzers is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring reliable wireless system performance and successful project delivery in complex technical environments.

What is the difference between Associate Rf Engineer vs RF Engineer?

AspectAssociate Rf EngineerRF Engineer
QualificationsBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field; some certificationsBachelor's or higher in Electrical Engineering; often more experience
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-based projects, testing, and troubleshootingMore independent, involved in design, optimization, and deployment
ResponsibilitiesAssisting in RF testing, data collection, and basic troubleshootingDesigning RF systems, performance analysis, and advanced troubleshooting

The main difference between an Associate Rf Engineer and an RF Engineer lies in experience and responsibility level. Associate Rf Engineers typically handle entry-level tasks such as testing and data collection, while RF Engineers are more involved in system design and optimization. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but RF Engineers usually have more industry experience and take on more complex projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rf Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD?

The most popular types of Rf Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Rf Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD?

For Associate Rf Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Rf Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Rf Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD are:

Infographic showing various Associate Rf Engineer job openings in Columbia, MD as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,342 per year, or $39.1 per hour.

Technical Lead Test Technician - RF

Germantown, MD • On-site

Leonardo DRS
Navigational, Measuring, Electromedical, and Control Instruments Manufacturing • 5 - 10K employees

$33.19 - $43.15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Leonardo DRS rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job ID: 115141

DRS RADA Technologies, a subsidiary of Leonardo DRS, is focused on proprietary radar solutions and legacy avionics systems supporting the defense industry globally. The company is a global pioneer of AESA tactical radars for active military protection, counter-drone applications, critical infrastructure protection, and border surveillance. 

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Business Unit: RADA
Location: Germantown, MD
Schedule: 9/80
Shift: 1st 

Job Summary

DRS RADA Technologies is hiring a Lead Test Technician - Radio Frequency to join its 1st shift team at our Germantown, MD location.  This position is full time and on-site. 

Job Responsibilities
  • Modify a variety of complex electrical prototypes to correct functional deviations
  • Perform standard testing processes on a variety of equipment and recording results
  • Possess a solid knowledge of industry specific tests and testing equipment, alignment and troubleshooting test failures
  • Provide technical support to Manufacturing engineers on a variety of complex test equipment.
  • Work from complex wiring and assembly drawings, operation sheets, engineering specifications and sketches
  • Create documents such as SOPs and safety rules
  • Ensure compliance with all safety and regulatory requirements applicable to the company in accordance with
  • Implement continuous improvement initiatives in work area and processes. (5S activities, LEAN manufacturing...)
  • Train new team members
  • Experience communicating interdepartmentally (Ops. and Engineering) on technical matters
  • Track Key Performance Indicators: First Time Failure Rate (FTFR), Pass/Fail rates, Quantity of Non-conforming PWA's.  etc.
  • Meet production OTD deadlines
  • Maintain Raw material and minimum stock levels
  • Compliance outcomes of electronics components
  • Strong RF troubleshooting abilities
  • Diagnose cause of electrical, optical or mechanical malfunction or failure of operational equipment and performs preventative and corrective maintenance
Qualifications
  • Requires an associate's degree in technical discipline or equivalent experience in the field or in a related area
  • 8+ years of relevant experience
  • Must demonstrate strong decision-making and leadership skills.
  • Experienced handling small delicate components, using ESD practices
  • Soldering and wire bonding experience
  • Experienced in the safe handling of chemicals
  • Experienced in the use of various computer applications including Excel and LabVIEW
  • Experience with Jira and Costpoint a plus
  • Must have excellent electromechanical skills

U.S. Citizenship required. This position requires an active DOD security clearance or the ability to obtain such clearance within a reasonable time after commencement of employment.

The pay range for this position is $33.19/hour-$43.15/hour.  This range reflects the good faith estimate of pay the employer is willing to offer at the time of posting. Several factors can influence the pay scale, including but not limited to: Federal contract labor categories and contract wage rates, collective bargaining agreements, geographic location, business considerations, scope, and responsibilities of the position, local or other applicable market conditions, and internal equity. Other factors include the candidate's qualifications such as prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education/training, and certifications. In addition to base pay, employees may be eligible for: annual performance-based bonuses, equity awards, and overtime pay (for non-exempt employees as applicable. Our benefits package includes comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), employer matching 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off including vacation, holidays, and sick leave (including ant state-mandated paid sick leave), parental leave benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional development support, and life and disability insurance coverage.

Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS. We are proud to offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan. We champion wellness programs that focus on physical, emotional, and financial well-being. We develop our talent by offering programs and activities to support career-growth, professional development, and skill enhancement. And we understand there is more to life than work, and the importance of offering flexible work schedules with our 9/80 program, competitive vacation, health/emergency leave, paid parental leave, and community service hours. 
*Some employees are eligible for limited benefits only

Leonardo DRS, Inc. and its subsidiaries provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.


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About Leonardo DRS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Navigational, measuring, electromedical, and control instruments manufacturing and communications equipment manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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