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Backhaul Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Transport Engineer

West Nyack, NY · Hybrid

$77.40K - $102.30K/yr

Works with a group of engineers who regularly evaluate the optimization of the transport network, including fronthaul, backhaul and microwave networks. * The transport team is responsible for ...

You will independently execute advanced wireless engineering tasks, provide technical leadership, and serve as a subject matter expert (SME) in MW backhaul design, wireless system integration, and ...

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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 May 29, 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 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.

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 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 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.

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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,100 per year, or $45.2 per hour.
Wireless Engineer (Secret Clearance)

Wireless Engineer (Secret Clearance)

ActioNet, Inc.

Dayton, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Description
Wireless Engineer
Overview: The Wireless Engineer designs, installs, optimizes, and maintains mobile broadband, cellular, and WLAN systems across enterprise Base Area Networks (BAN). This role supports both legacy and modernized wireless infrastructure, ensuring maximum coverage, minimal interference, and compliance with Air Force and DoW technical, security, and spectrum standards. The Wireless Engineer contributes to system design, RF planning, troubleshooting, site surveys, documentation, and operational sustainment while collaborating with network engineering, cybersecurity, and base communications teams. The Wireless Engineer supports the design, deployment, and optimization of 4G LTE and 5G NR (New Radio) wireless solutions across enterprise and mission environments, ensuring resilient broadband connectivity and low-latency performance for critical applications. The Wireless Engineer applies knowledge of RAN architecture, mobile core functions, and backhaul integration to ensure seamless mobility and high-availability wireless service.
Location: Dayton, Ohio
Secret Clearance Required
Key Responsibilities
Wireless and Broadband System Engineering
  • Assist with the design of mobile broadband/cellular solutions across BAN environments, including antennas, power, backhaul, and spectrum utilization
  • Design enterprise WLAN infrastructure using advanced RF principles, including predictive and on-site RF modeling, heat mapping, and site surveys
  • Ensure WLAN design follows DoD/DAF RF, HERO, HERP, and HERF safety standards and spectrum certification requirements
  • Support green-field wireless designs-no legacy wireless reuse-per modernized network requirements
  • Evaluate RF propagation characteristics, building materials, multipath conditions, and flight line/industrial environment constraints

Installation, Configuration, and Integration
  • Install, configure, and test broadband, WLAN, and cellular systems in accordance with engineering design packages
  • Ensure compliance with OEM specifications, DoD STIGs, NIAP, FIPS, and applicable cybersecurity guidelines
  • Coordinate with Network Engineers to optimize system integration, traffic flows, bandwidth usage, and performance
  • Support installation of wireless infrastructure across operational facilities, maintenance hangars, warehouses, munitions areas, and flight line operations areas

Site Surveys and Spectrum Management
  • Conduct predictive, passive, active, and verification wireless site surveys (indoor and outdoor)
  • Document survey results, including RF readings, spectrum analysis, heat maps, interference sources, and channel planning
  • Ensure compliance with AFI 17-220 spectrum processes, including SCG data collection, device certification inputs, and safe RF emissions near ordnance, fuels, and personnel
  • Identify and document OSP/ISP constraints, power/grounding requirements, and environmental hazards that affect wireless deployment

Operations, Sustainment, and Troubleshooting
  • Monitor wireless system performance, availability, and security posture using approved NMS tools
  • Diagnose and resolve wireless issues involving RF interference, connectivity, hardware failures, authentication, or configuration conflicts
  • Perform preventive maintenance, firmware updates, vulnerability mitigation, and configuration optimization
  • Support Tier 2/3 wireless troubleshooting as part of shared operational responsibilities with the Base Communications Squadron

Documentation and Compliance
  • Develop and maintain technical documentation including design diagrams, RF heat maps, configuration files, and installation records
  • Ensure wireless systems meet DoD, DAF, STIG, RMF, TEMPEST, and cybersecurity standards
  • Record installation, maintenance, and repair actions for operational continuity and future reference
  • Produce required documentation deliverables, such as Wi-Fi heat maps, wireless installation descriptions, and RF assessments for transition packages

5G/LTE System Engineering
  • Designs and implements LTE and 5G RAN components, including small cells, macro cells, antennas, eNodeB/gNodeB platforms, and associated transport networks.
  • Performs RF engineering tasks for 5G and LTE systems, including waveform analysis, MIMO/Antenna configuration, carrier aggregation, and spectrum allocation.
  • Supports integration of 5G Standalone (SA) and Non-Standalone (NSA) architectures into existing enterprise networks.
  • Evaluates and configures 5G core functions such as AMF, SMF, UPF, AUSF, NRF, and interfaces (N1-N4, N6-N14, etc.) for mission needs.
  • Optimizes throughput, coverage, and reliability using drive testing, RF measurements, SINR/RSRP/RSRQ analysis, and spectrum monitoring.

5G/LTE Operations and Testing
  • Installs, configures, and validates LTE and 5G radios, including DAS systems, small cells, and private cellular networks.
  • Performs acceptance testing using tools such as spectrum analyzers, RF scanners, UE testing platforms, and OEM management systems.
  • Conducts testing of new cellular technologies, including network slicing, edge computing capabilities (MEC), and 5G security features before deployment.
  • Troubleshoots cellular service issues involving signaling failures, handover performance, RF interference, mobility challenges, and core-radio integration.

Collaboration and Compliance
  • Works with spectrum management authorities to ensure proper frequency licensing and compliance for LTE and 5G deployments.
  • Ensures 5G/LTE systems comply with DoD/DAF cybersecurity requirements, including STIG, RMF, FIPS, and Zero-Trust Architecture considerations.

Required Qualifications
Education
  • Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline, such as computer science, engineering, information technology, cybersecurity, data science, or related OR
  • High school diploma or associate degree with 7 years performing as a Broadband/Wireless Engineer on large, complex networks.

Experience
  • 5 years of experience with broadband, wireless, or enterprise network engineering.
  • Demonstrated experience in WLAN RF design, enterprise wireless planning, and advanced wireless troubleshooting
  • Experience designing and supporting TCP/IP networks, including switching, routing, QoS, NAC, NMS, and OSP/ISP distribution systems
  • Experience with LTE EPC and 5G Core (5GC) architectures, protocols (S1/X2, NG, N2/N3), and mobility operations
  • Proficiency with RF and cellular tools such as CellAdvisor, TEMS, Nemo, PCTEL scanners, or similar
  • Working knowledge of network slicing, beamforming, MIMO technologies, and private cellular networks (CBRS/OnGo)

Technical Skills
  • Proficient in broadband and wireless technologies, including 802.11 standards, RF engineering, spectrum analysis, and wireless security
  • Strong understanding of network protocols, infrastructure, and enterprise architecture
  • Skilled in MS Office Suite, Teams, and SharePoint
  • Experience with wireless design tools (e.g., Ekahau, AirMagnet) and network performance monitoring systems
  • Familiarity with DoD cybersecurity controls, STIGs, ACAS scanning, and RMF processes

Certifications
  • CCNA, JNCIA, or equivalent
  • CompTIA Security+ (required for DoD 8140 compliance)
  • Additional wireless certifications, such as CWNA or CWDP, are desirable

Preferred Certifications
  • 3GPP 5G/LTE certifications (Nokia, Ericsson, Cisco, Samsung, Verizon, AT&T training)
  • CBRS Certified Professional Installer (CPI)
  • Certified Wireless Specialist - Cellular (CWS, CWSA)

Clearance
  • Active Secret Clearance required

Desired Attributes
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to diagnose and resolve wireless/system faults quickly and efficiently
  • Strong communication skills for coordination with engineering teams, base communications units, and operational leadership
  • Ability to work in high-security, mission-critical environments with strict standards and oversight
  • Detail-oriented, with strong documentation and compliance discipline

About ActioNet
ActioNet is a CMMI-DEV Level 4, CMMI-SVC Level 4, ISO 20000, ISO 27001, ISO 9001, HDI-certified, woman-owned IT solutions provider with 25+ years of stellar performance. Our expertise spans Agile Software Engineering, Cloud Solutions, Cybersecurity, and IT Managed Services.
With a 98% customer retention rate, ActioNet is proud to be named a Top Workplace for 11 consecutive years (2014-2024).Why ActioNet?At ActioNet, our Passion for Quality is at the heart of everything we do:Commitment to Employees: A great place to work with ongoing investment in our people.Commitment to Customers: Driving and sustaining service delivery excellence.Commitment to Community: Giving back and building a better world for future generations.What's in It for You?
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Savings Plan
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) & 11 Paid Holidays
  • Life and Disability Insurance
  • Education and Professional Training
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Employee Recognition and Referral Programs
  • Employee Assistance & Identity Theft Protection
  • Equal Opportunity Statement

ActioNet is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.