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Communication Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Satellite Communications Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$131K - $237K/yr

Lead research and development of novel satellite communication technologies for national security ... Master's degree in electrical engineering, satellite communications, or related discipline.

Leidos

Satellite Communications Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Lead research and development of novel satellite communication technologies for national security ... Master's degree in electrical engineering, satellite communications, or related discipline.

SAIC

Unified Communications Engineer

Stafford, VA

Network Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 25% of the time Minimum Clearance ... Strong communication skills and ability to engage with technical and non technical * Demonstrated ...

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All JobsCommunication Engineer JobsCommunication Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Communication Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$62K

$109.7K

$136.3K

How much do communication engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for communication engineer in Virginia is $109,743.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,700.00 and $128,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Communication Engineers face when working on large-scale network projects?

Communication Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new technologies with legacy systems, ensuring minimal downtime during upgrades, and coordinating with cross-functional teams like IT security, software developers, and project managers. Managing tight deadlines while maintaining high reliability and security standards can also be demanding. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential for navigating these complexities and delivering robust, scalable solutions.

Which is the highest paid ECE job?

The highest paid roles for Communication Engineers typically include senior positions such as Systems Architect, Radio Frequency (RF) Engineer, or Wireless Communications Manager, especially in industries like telecommunications and defense. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and experience, and can offer salaries significantly higher than entry-level positions.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior communication engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in network design, and certifications such as Cisco or IEEE can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries or leadership roles. Achieving this salary often requires specialized expertise, management responsibilities, or working in competitive markets.

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

To thrive as a Communication Engineer, you need a strong background in telecommunications, signal processing, and electronic circuit design, typically supported by a degree in electrical or communications engineering. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as MATLAB, network analyzers, and wireless communication protocols, as well as certifications like CCNA or IEEE membership, is often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are important soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure reliable communication systems design, efficient troubleshooting, and successful project delivery in a rapidly evolving technology landscape.

What does a communications engineer do?

A communications engineer designs, develops, and maintains systems that transmit data, voice, and video signals, such as telecommunication networks, wireless systems, and internet infrastructure. They work with hardware, software, and protocols to ensure reliable and efficient communication services, often using tools like network analyzers and simulation software. Strong technical skills and knowledge of industry standards are essential for this role.

What is the difference between Communication Engineer vs Network Engineer?

AspectCommunication EngineerNetwork Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Communications, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; certifications like CCNA, CCNPBachelor's in Computer Science, Networking, or related fields; certifications like CCNA, CCNP
Work EnvironmentTelecom companies, broadcasting, satellite, and wireless service providersIT firms, data centers, internet service providers, corporate networks
Industry UsageDesigning, installing, maintaining communication systems and infrastructureDesigning, implementing, troubleshooting computer networks and infrastructure

While both roles involve network and system knowledge, Communication Engineers focus on communication systems like radio, satellite, and wireless networks, whereas Network Engineers specialize in computer and data network infrastructure. The roles often overlap in skills and certifications, but their primary focus and work environments differ.

What are Communication Engineers?

Communication Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain systems that transmit information, such as telecommunication networks, wireless communications, and data transmission systems. They work with technologies like fiber optics, satellites, and radio frequency systems to ensure efficient and reliable communication. Their responsibilities may include planning network infrastructure, troubleshooting signal issues, and implementing new technologies. Communication Engineers play a vital role in industries such as telecommunications, broadcasting, and IT, helping people and organizations stay connected.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering with extensive experience and advanced skills can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. High-level roles in management or executive positions in engineering companies may also reach this compensation level.
What are popular job titles related to Communication Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Communication Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Communication Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Communication Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
Communication Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Communication Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, and 47% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,743 per year, or $52.8 per hour.
Programmatic Communication Systems Engineer

Programmatic Communication Systems Engineer

Science Applications International Corporation

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 7 days ago

SAIC rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 204 rated it services

Job description

Join a mission driven satellite program at the forefront of national defense innovation. Our team is developing cutting edge technologies that directly support critical Department of War priorities, combining both proven and first-of-their-kind capabilities that have never been applied in space. Operating within a fast-paced acquisition environment, we benefit from streamlined authorities and direct access to senior Government decisionmakers, enabling us to move quickly and execute aggressive schedules using the most innovative contracting strategies available.

SAIC is seeking self-directed leaders who skillfully navigate ambiguity, solve complex challenges, and bring diverse expertise to a dynamic environment focused on delivering capability rapidly. Success here requires adaptability, initiative, and a willingness to wear multiple hats in support of a high impact mission. Candidates experienced as USAF/USSF acquisition officers (AFSC: 63A) or developmental engineers (AFSC: 62E) leading satellite programs in the USSF (SSC), NRO, or SDA, applying the full range of the systems engineering discipline (e.g., Requirements Development, Architecture, SE milestones: SRR, PDR, CDR, etc.), and/or DAWIA/PMI Program Management will be especially well-prepared to excel.

Job Description:

This position is for a Comm Systems Engineer in Chantilly, VA supporting cutting-edge and innovative space programs. The Comm Systems Engineer provides space communications, network, and crypto acquisition activities engineering support for space systems.  The position requires familiarity with NRO organization, processes, and satellite systems.

Job Responsibilities: 

  • Develop space system requirements and evaluate vendor solutions in the acquisition phase.

  • Provide space communications engineering support for space systems including mesh communication architectures and direct downlink capabilities.

  • Assess different types of communications architectures.

  • Provide technical evaluation and risk assessments.

  • Guide the Government in understanding communication frequency requirements and obtaining approval for use.

  • Develop documents and briefings to communicate work or study status, brief Government and industry as required.

  • Support acquisition documentation development (CDRLs, SOWs, MPPs, etc) related to satellite systems.

  • Support Contract Officer Technical Representatives (COTRs) and Developers by coordinating with other acquisition domain SMEs and program stakeholders to develop, modify, and maintain contract documentation.

  • Review Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) deliverables to ensure content, accuracy, and sufficiency to meet program requirements and objectives.

  • Participate in program reviews and technical interchange meetings between developers and COTR.

  • Support readiness reviews and major program reviews to evaluate ground system readiness.

  • Resolve highly complex and multi-dimensional problems requiring consideration of variables that impact multiple aspects of the project/program.

  • Develop documents and briefings to communicate work or study status and brief Government and industry as required.

SAIC is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.

We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

   TYPICAL EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Bachelors and fourteen (14) years or more experience; Masters and twelve (12) years or more experience.
   Excellent interpersonal, leadership, team building and problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to be effective in a government/contractor team environment.
   Ability to communicate with a diverse audience of senior decision makers with varying levels of programmatic and technical expertise. 
   Experience facilitating technical discussions with SMEs.
   Demonstrated ability to work in a very dynamic environment and effectively interact with numerous DOD, military/civilian personnel and industry partners.
   Proven experience providing systems engineering support and technical guidance in the acquisition, development, and deployment of satellite systems.
   Effective communication, coordination, and customer engagement skills. 
   Ability to work in a fast paced, dynamic, and team environment with no supervision.
   Active TS/SCI with current Poly Required.
   Previous SAP experience desired. 

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