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Cellular Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

IEEE/Wi-Fi Standards Senior Research Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$112K - $145K/yr

Our team's innovative work has led to significant contributions to technologies such as 5G cellular ... Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field; Ph.D. is strongly preferred. * 5+ years ...

Senior FPGA_AIE Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$107K - $146K/yr

Job Summary Lynk is developing cellular-based space payloads and seeks engineers with expertise and experience designing and developing custom software-defined radio (SDR) platforms. Aspects of the ...

Our team's innovative work has led to significant contributions to technologies such as 5G cellular ... Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field; a Ph.D. is strongly preferred * 5+ ...

Our team's innovative work has led to significant contributions to technologies such as 5G cellular ... Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field; a Ph.D. is strongly preferred * 5+ ...

Network Engineer Clearance : Must be able to obtain a Public Trust Inalab Consulting, Inc. is ... Cellular technology (4G/LTE, 5G) * Cellular signal automators (for signal strength, quality, signal ...

Network Engineer Clearance : Must be able to obtain a Public Trust Inalab Consulting, Inc. is ... Cellular technology (4G/LTE, 5G) * Cellular signal automators (for signal strength, quality, signal ...

Network Engineer Clearance : Must be able to obtain a Public Trust Inalab Consulting, Inc. is ... Cellular technology (4G/LTE, 5G) * Cellular signal automators (for signal strength, quality, signal ...

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Cellular Engineering information

See Virginia salary details

$72.4K

$128.4K

$246.9K

How much do cellular engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for cellular engineering in Virginia is $128,400.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,100.00 and $133,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Cellular Engineering job?

A Cellular Engineering job involves designing, modifying, and optimizing cells for various applications in biotechnology, medicine, and research. Professionals in this field use techniques like genetic engineering, synthetic biology, and tissue engineering to develop improved cell lines for drug production, regenerative medicine, and bio-manufacturing. They often work in laboratories, biotech companies, or academic institutions, collaborating with researchers and engineers to advance cellular technologies.

How much do cellular engineers make?

Cellular engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Advanced skills in wireless communication systems, network design, and certifications can lead to higher compensation, especially in senior or specialized roles.

What does a cellular engineer do?

A cellular engineer designs, develops, and tests cellular communication systems, including network infrastructure and wireless devices. They work with radio frequency technology, signal processing, and network protocols, often using tools like simulation software and requiring knowledge of telecommunications standards. Their role ensures reliable wireless connectivity and system performance.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and certain types of electrical or aerospace engineering can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. These roles often require advanced degrees, certifications, and extensive experience, and may involve leadership responsibilities or working in competitive markets.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior-level engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and certain aerospace engineering roles can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-demand industries or companies with competitive compensation packages.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Cellular Engineering position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Cellular Engineering, you need a strong background in cell biology, tissue culture techniques, molecular biology, and a relevant degree such as biomedical engineering or a related field. Proficiency with laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as FlowJo or ImageJ), and familiarity with regulatory guidelines like GMP are highly valuable. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and excellent teamwork and communication skills are key soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure high-quality experimental results, regulatory compliance, and effective collaboration in research or biotech industry settings.

What are some typical challenges faced in a Cellular Engineering role?

Professionals in Cellular Engineering often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting inconsistent experimental results, adapting protocols to new cell types, and maintaining cell cultures under strict quality standards. Rapid project timelines and evolving technologies require continual learning and flexibility. Additionally, collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including biologists, chemists, and regulatory experts—demands strong organizational and communication skills. These challenges make the role dynamic and rewarding, especially for those who enjoy problem-solving in a fast-paced environment.

Infographic showing various Cellular Engineering job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 26% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,400 per year, or $61.7 per hour.
Wireless Engineer w Travel - SECRET Clearance

Wireless Engineer w Travel - SECRET Clearance

ActioNet, Inc.

Vienna, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Design, install, configure, and optimize mobile broadband, cellular, and WLAN systems across enterprise Base Area Networks.

  • Conduct wireless site surveys, RF analysis, and spectrum management to ensure compliance with technical and safety standards.

  • Monitor, troubleshoot, and maintain wireless systems, documenting actions and ensuring operational continuity and compliance.


Job description

Description
Wireless Engineer with Travel
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: Remote with 15% Travel CONUS, and may need to travel OCONUS, as needed
***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.