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Communication Engineering information

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$61.7K

$109.2K

$135.7K

How much do communication engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for communication engineering in California is $109,243.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,300.00 and $128,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do communication engineers do?

Communication engineers design, develop, and maintain systems that transmit information, such as telecommunication networks, wireless systems, and data communication infrastructure. They work with hardware, software, and protocols to ensure reliable and efficient communication, often using tools like signal processing and network analysis. Their work may involve testing, troubleshooting, and optimizing communication systems to meet performance standards.

Is communication engineering a good career?

Communication engineering is a viable career that involves designing and maintaining systems for transmitting information, such as wireless networks, fiber optics, and satellite communications. It typically requires strong technical skills, knowledge of signal processing, and proficiency with tools like MATLAB or CAD software. Job prospects are generally good in telecommunications, broadcasting, and technology sectors, with opportunities for advancement and specialization.

What are the typical challenges communication engineers face when working on large-scale network deployments?

Communication engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring reliable connectivity across diverse environments, integrating new technologies with legacy systems, and troubleshooting real-time issues under tight deadlines. They frequently collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including IT specialists and project managers, to coordinate deployment logistics and address unforeseen technical obstacles. Adapting to rapid technological advancements and adhering to industry standards are also key aspects of the role, making strong problem-solving skills and continuous learning essential.

What is the difference between Communication Engineering vs Electrical Engineering?

AspectCommunication EngineeringElectrical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Communication Engineering or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering or related fields
Work EnvironmentTelecom companies, research labs, network providersPower plants, manufacturing, electronics firms
Industry UsageTelecommunications, wireless, satellite, networkingPower systems, electronics, control systems

Communication Engineering focuses on designing and maintaining communication systems like wireless networks and satellite communications, while Electrical Engineering covers a broader range of electrical systems, power generation, and electronics. Both fields share similar credentials and often work in overlapping industries, but Communication Engineering specializes in communication technologies and networks.

How much does a communication engineer get paid?

The average salary for a communication engineer varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills in wireless, fiber optics, or network systems can earn higher salaries. Certifications like CCNA or Cisco are often valued and can influence compensation.

What is communication engineering?

Communication engineering is a branch of engineering focused on the design, development, and maintenance of systems that transmit information, such as telecommunication networks, radio, satellite, and internet technologies. Communication engineers work with hardware and software to ensure the effective and secure transfer of data across various platforms. Their work is essential for enabling services like mobile phones, broadband, television broadcasting, and wireless networks. This field combines principles from electrical engineering, computer science, and information technology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a communication engineer?

To thrive as a Communication Engineer, you need a solid understanding of telecommunications principles, signal processing, and network design, typically supported by a degree in electrical or communication engineering. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as MATLAB, Simulink, network analyzers, and certifications like CCNA or CWNA is often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork and communication skills help professionals excel in this field. These competencies ensure the reliable design, implementation, and maintenance of advanced communication systems crucial for modern connectivity.
Communication Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Communication Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,243 per year, or $52.5 per hour.

Electronics Communication Engineer/ Principal Electronics Communication Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Palmdale, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 363 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 539 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: Top Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 25% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Please note that this opportunity is contingent on program funding. Start dates are determined after funding confirmation.
Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems is looking to add a Electronics Communication Engineer/ Principal Electronics Communication Engineer to join our to join our Avionics Integration Organization in Palmdale, CA. The candidate should be a self-starter with familiarity working in an Integrated Product Team construct.
A successful candidate will utilize previous experience with Line of Sight (LOS) and BLOS (Beyond Line of Sight) communication systems or AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) Antennas to support Communications Engineer tasking by completing test events, system verification, and conducting troubleshooting to ensure successful integration and communication test outcomes.
Roles and Responsibilities will include:
  • Hands-on work with Line of Sight (LOS) and Beyond Line of Sight (BLOS) communication systems, including modems, up/down converters, and Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) antenna systems.
  • Providing direct user support, engineering expertise, and troubleshooting during test events.
  • Providing tasking direction to Field Service Representatives to perform field maintenance, upgrades, and performance analyses for assigned communication subsystem.
  • Addressing and correcting deliverable subsystem performance concerns via program identified tools/systems on behalf of the Communications technical team.
  • Leading Root Cause/Corrective Action Investigations for issues related to assigned communication subsystem.
  • Identifying opportunities for deliverable system improvement and working with engineering teams to implement in accordance with approved program processes.
  • Reporting Comms subsystem status to programmatic and technical team leadership and identifying risks/issues/concerns to prevent increased cost and/or schedule loss.
  • Conducting field maintenance of communications hardware.

The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility. There is NO remote / hybrid / telework available for this position. Travel up to 25% may be required.
***This position may be filled either at the Electronics Communication Engineer level OR at the Principal Electronics Communication Engineer level based on the qualifications listed.***
Basic Qualifications:
  • Electronics Engineer: Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline and 2 years of related engineering experience; OR a Master's degree in a STEM discipline and years of related engineering experience.
  • Principal Electronics Engineer: Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline and 5 years of related engineering experience; OR a Master's degree in a STEM discipline and 3 years of related engineering experience; OR a PhD in a STEM discipline and 1 year of related engineering experience.
  • Strong understanding of RF signal chains and system-level integration of Communication components.
  • Experience in Communications system integration
  • Experience with RF and Network based test equipment to include oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, and power meters
  • Experience with modulation/demodulation and coding techniques as related to communications systems
  • Must have an active US Government Top-Secret Clearance (with a background investigation within the past 6 years or enrolled into Continuous Evaluation).
  • Ability to obtain and maintain US Government SCI clearance
  • Must have the ability to obtain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) clearance, within a reasonable amount of time as determined by business needs.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Current applicable Special Access Program (SAP) clearance.
  • Active USG Top Secret SCI clearance (with a background investigation within the past 5 years or enrolled into Continuous Evaluation).
  • Networking Experience (Layer 2/3 Networking and training/certifications (Network+, Security+, CCNA, etc.)
  • Experience with RF performance assessment through link margin and antenna pattern analyses
  • Experience with supplier/subcontract management
  • Familiarity with common industry standards related to communications and network-based systems, such as MIL-STD-1553, RS-232/422, Ethernet (IPv4/IPv6)

#yellow
Primary Level Salary Range: $91,800.00 - $137,600.00
Secondary Level Salary Range: $114,000.00 - $171,000.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

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At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

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