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Backhaul Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... backhaul, transmission methodology. Integration & Testing • Work with RF engineers and remote testers to ensure site readiness and KPI compliance • Execute RMA process including field trouble ...

The Role Specter is hiring an RF Systems Engineer to define and optimize the end-to-end wireless ... Define multi-radio system architectures for long-range backhaul and high-throughput paths across ...

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Backhaul Engineer information

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$36K

$94.1K

$140.5K

How much do backhaul engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for backhaul engineer in the United States is $94,100.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Backhaul Engineers face when integrating new technologies into existing network infrastructure?

Backhaul Engineers often encounter challenges when introducing new technologies, such as ensuring compatibility with legacy systems, minimizing network downtime during upgrades, and managing increased data traffic. They must carefully plan migrations, coordinate with cross-functional teams like network architects and operations, and perform thorough testing to maintain service reliability. Staying updated with evolving standards and managing vendor relationships are also key aspects of successfully integrating new solutions.

What is the difference between Backhaul Engineer vs Network Engineer?

AspectBackhaul EngineerNetwork Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Telecommunications, Networking, or related field; certifications like CCNA, CCNPBachelor's in Computer Science, Networking, or related; similar certifications like CCNA, CCNP
Work EnvironmentTelecom sites, cell towers, network infrastructure facilitiesOffices, data centers, client sites
Industry UsageTelecommunications, mobile network providersIT, corporate networks, service providers
Common Search/ComparisonYesNo

The Backhaul Engineer primarily focuses on designing, implementing, and maintaining the communication links that connect cell towers to core networks, often working in telecom environments. Network Engineers have a broader role, managing overall network infrastructure across various industries. While both roles require similar certifications and technical skills, their work environments and specific responsibilities differ significantly.

What are Backhaul Engineers?

Backhaul Engineers are telecommunications professionals who design, implement, and maintain the network infrastructure that connects core networks to edge networks, such as cell towers or local exchanges. Their work is critical for ensuring high-speed, reliable data transmission between network nodes, which supports services like mobile data, voice calls, and internet connectivity. They often work with fiber optics, microwave links, and other transmission technologies to optimize network performance and capacity. Backhaul Engineers also troubleshoot issues, plan network expansions, and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Backhaul Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Backhaul Engineer, you need a solid understanding of networking principles, telecommunications infrastructure, and transmission technologies, typically supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with network management systems, fiber optics, microwave transmission tools, and certifications like CCNA or equivalent are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating with cross-functional teams and troubleshooting network issues. These competencies ensure reliable, high-capacity network connectivity and support the seamless delivery of data services critical to modern communications.
More about Backhaul Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Backhaul Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Backhaul Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Backhaul Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Backhaul Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Backhaul Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 36% Internship, and 64% Full Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,100 per year, or $45.2 per hour.
Chief Systems Engineer

Chief Systems Engineer

Chartis Consulting Corporation

Leesburg, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Description:

About Chartis Federal

Chartis Federal is a premier systems engineering and integration firm specializing in mission-critical IT and communications solutions for law enforcement, homeland security, and defense. As a trusted prime contractor with over $160 million in task order awards, we operate across 22 states and support essential government missions worldwide.


Our commitment to excellence has fueled our year-over-year growth, earning us recognition twice as a Washington Technology FAST 50 company and securing a place on the Inc. 5000 list for five consecutive years. At Chartis Federal, our mission is clear: keeping heroes safe and connected—on the battlefield, on the border, and in our backyards.


Position Overview

The Chief Systems Engineer (CSE) serves as the senior technical authority for the eCOMM VI P-25 Digital Trunked Land Mobile Radio (LMR) modernization across St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John.


This role provides system-level technical leadership, architectural governance, regulatory compliance oversight, and performance validation across all project phases. The CSE ensures technical integrity of RF engineering, network interconnectivity, microwave backhaul, and system integration activities while delegating field execution and installation activities to engineering and construction teams.


The Chief Systems Engineer works in coordination with the Program Manager and Deputy PM to ensure all technical deliverables meet required standards prior to lifecycle phase transitions.

This position is contingent upon contract award.


Responsibilities

Technical Architecture Governance

  • Establish and maintain the technical architecture baseline for the P-25 Digital LMR system.
  • Review and approve system design specifications, including RF modeling, coverage analysis, microwave backhaul, and MPLS network architecture.
  • Validate interoperability requirements between St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John.
  • Ensure architectural alignment prior to procurement and construction activities.

RF & Engineering Oversight

  • Provide technical review and approval of:
    • Coverage reports and propagation models
    • Drive test methodologies and results
    • Antenna configurations and RF optimization strategies
    • Structural integration and grounding designs
  • Validate A&E deliverables and technical drawings prior to release for construction.
  • Serve as escalation authority for complex RF or system integration issues.

Interconnectivity & Network Validation

  • Oversee technical design and integration of microwave radio terminals, MPLS routers, and network backbone components.
  • Ensure resilient, redundant inter-island communications architecture.
  • Review and certify interconnectivity performance prior to operational deployment.

Installation & Testing Oversight

  • Establish technical acceptance criteria for installation and integration phases.
  • Validate antenna sweep results and system configuration benchmarks.
  • Review system performance testing results, including:
    • Signal strength and coverage validation
    • Voice clarity and transmission performance
    • Interoperability and reliability testing
  • Approve readiness for system cutover and migration from legacy analog LMR infrastructure

Compliance & Regulatory Assurance

  • Ensure adherence to: P-25 standards; FCC licensing and regulatory requirements; Applicable federal and territorial compliance standards
  • Support documentation required for inspections, audits, and grant compliance.

Technical Leadership & Knowledge Transfer

  • Provide technical direction to RF engineers, A&E teams, network engineers, and subcontractors.
  • Participate in milestone reviews and technical decision gates.
  • Support training and knowledge transfer to BIT RF personnel.
  • Review and approve final system documentation prior to handover.
Requirements:
  • Minimum 10 years of experience in radio telecommunications engineering.
  • Demonstrated leadership in the design or implementation of at least one P-25 Digital LMR Network.
  • Minimum 10 years of experience in interconnectivity technologies (microwave, fiber, satellite, MPLS).
  • Strong expertise in RF engineering, coverage modeling, and system optimization.
  • Experience integrating public safety communications systems across multiple sites.
  • Experience working with FCC licensing and regulatory compliance processes.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Professional Engineer (PE) license.
  • Advanced telecommunications or RF certifications.
  • Experience in hurricane-prone or island environments.
  • Experience supporting public safety or emergency communications modernization efforts.
  • Experience with grant-funded infrastructure programs.


Why Join Chartis Federal?

We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, including:

  • Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
  • Retirement plans with company contributions
  • Professional development opportunities and career growth support
  • A dynamic and collaborative work environment where your contributions are valued


At Chartis Federal, we believe in fostering a culture of excellence, integrity, and innovation while supporting critical national security missions. Join us in shaping the future of government contracting and national security solutions.


Chartis Federal is an Equal Opportunity Employer and employs qualified individuals regardless of race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other classification proscribed under applicable law. We participate in E-Verify.