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Associate Rf Engineer Jobs in San Jose, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Associate Rf Engineer information

See San Jose, CA salary details

$48.6K

$96.8K

$154.7K

How much do associate rf engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate rf engineer in San Jose, CA is $96,849.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,800.00 and $111,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Associate RF Engineers?

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 are the most commonly searched types of Rf Engineer jobs in San Jose, CA? The most popular types of Rf Engineer jobs in San Jose, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Rf Engineer jobs in San Jose, CA? For Associate Rf Engineer jobs in San Jose, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Rf Engineer jobs in San Jose, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Rf Engineer jobs in San Jose, CA are:
What cities near San Jose, CA are hiring for Associate Rf Engineer jobs? Cities near San Jose, CA with the most Associate Rf Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Rf Engineer job openings in San Jose, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,849 per year, or $46.6 per hour.
Engineering Technician - RF Systems 5

Engineering Technician - RF Systems 5

Lam Research Corporation

Fremont, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Lam Research rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 430 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

The group you'll be a part of
In the Global Products Group, we are dedicated to excellence in the design and engineering of Lam's etch and deposition products. We drive innovation to ensure our cutting-edge solutions are helping to solve the biggest challenges in the semiconductor industry.
The impact you'll make
At Lam, as an Engineering Technician 5 - RF Systems, you will play a critical role in enabling RF and plasma technology development by providing advanced hands-on technical support to engineering teams in an R&D laboratory environment. You will support the design, test, modification, assembly, and validation of high-power RF, electrical, and electromechanical used in semiconductor processing equipment. Drawing from schematics, diagrams, procedures, and engineering guidance, you will independently troubleshoot complex system- and component-level issues, perform fault isolation, and help determine effective corrective actions. Your technical depth, lab ownership, and execution discipline directly contribute to reliable, safe, and repeatable engineering development outcomes.
What you'll do
• Perform advanced testing, calibration, checkout, and troubleshooting of RF, electrical, electromechanical, and vacuum systems using schematics, layouts, and defined test plans.
• Assemble, configure, test, and diagnose high-power, high-voltage RF subsystems, including matching networks, sensors, power delivery components, and associated electronics.
• Conduct system-level and PCBA-level troubleshooting, fault isolation, and root cause analysis for electrical, mechanical, and RF failures.
• Operate electronic and RF test equipment such as VNAs, oscilloscopes, signal generators, power meters, DMMs, and specialized diagnostic tools.
• Inspect materials, components, and assemblies; perform precision measurements using microscopes and standard lab instrumentation.
• Support prototype bring-up, integration, modification, and validation in close collaboration with development engineers.
• Assist engineering teams with experimental setups, data collection, and validation testing for concept, feasibility, and NPI activities.
• Perform component-level rework, repair, and replacement, including soldering and SMD rework, in compliance with lab and ESD standards.
• Maintain accurate documentation including test results, procedures, build records, and troubleshooting notes.
• Manage lab equipment, fixtures, and test infrastructure, including calibration tracking, asset organization, and safe operation.
• Adhere to all safety, ESD, and cleanroom protocols when working with high-voltage RF systems, hazardous materials, and vacuum equipment.
• Communicate technical issues, progress, and results effectively with engineers, technicians, and cross-functional stakeholders while managing multiple priorities.
Who we're looking for
Minimum Qualifications
  • 6+ years of related hands-on experience supporting electrical, RF, electromechanical, or semiconductor equipment in a lab, manufacturing, or R&D environment.
  • Demonstrated experience with installation, maintenance, repair, testing, or troubleshooting of complex equipment or electronic systems.
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, mechanical drawings, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills in English.
  • Proficiency with computer-based data systems, engineering tools, and Microsoft Office applications.
  • Ability to work a shift schedule and support hands-on laboratory activities.

Preferred qualifications
  • Associate's degree, technical certificate, diploma, or higher education in electronics, RF engineering, electrical engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Strong hands-on experience with high-power RF systems, RF matching networks, sensors, and calibration techniques.
  • Experience troubleshooting system-level and component-level issues across electrical, mechanical, fluidic, and vacuum subsystems.
  • Proficiency with RF and electronic test equipment including VNAs, oscilloscopes, signal generators, power meters, and DMMs.
  • Experience performing board-level debug, component-level repair, and soldering/SMD rework.
  • Familiarity with semiconductor capital equipment, RF power delivery systems, or plasma processing tools.
  • Experience supporting prototype development, validation testing, and New Product Introduction (NPI) activities.
  • Experience working in laboratory and/or cleanroom environments with appropriate safety and ESD controls.

Our commitment
We believe it is important for every person to feel valued, included, and empowered to achieve their full potential. By bringing unique individuals and viewpoints together, we achieve extraordinary results.
Lam Research ("Lam" or the "Company") is an equal opportunity employer. Lam is committed to and reaffirms support of equal opportunity in employment and non-discrimination in employment policies, practices and procedures on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, or military and veteran status or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. It is the Company's intention to comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Company policy prohibits unlawful discrimination against applicants or employees.
Lam offers a variety of work location models based on the needs of each role. Our hybrid roles combine the benefits of on-site collaboration with colleagues and the flexibility to work remotely and fall into two categories - On-site Flex and Virtual Flex. 'On-site Flex' you'll work 3+ days per week on-site at a Lam or customer/supplier location, with the opportunity to work remotely for the balance of the week. 'Virtual Flex' you'll work 1-2 days per week on-site at a Lam or customer/supplier location, and remotely the rest of the time.
#LI-CG1
Salary
CA San Francisco Bay Area Salary Range for this position: $32.21 - $63.46.
The above salary range for this position is relevant to applicants that reside or work onsite in the California, San Francisco Bay Area only. Salary offers will depend on factors that include the location you work from, your level, education, training, specific skills, years of experience and comparison to other employees already in this role. Actual salary may vary from salary offered due to numerous factors including but not limited to unpaid time off, unpaid leave, company mandated shutdown, and other relevant factors.
Our Perks and Benefits
At Lam, our people make amazing things possible. That's why we invest in you throughout the phases of your life with a comprehensive set of outstanding benefits.

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About Lam Research

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Lam Research designs and builds products for semiconductor manufacturing, including equipment for thin film deposition, plasma etch, photoresist strip, and wafer cleaning processes.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Fremont, CA, US

Year founded

1980

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