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Communications Systems Engineer Jobs in California

SAIC

ESS Terminals Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA

$120K - $160K/yr

SAIC is sub-contractor on the Military Satellite Communications (MILSATCOM) Systems Engineering, Integration and Test (MSEIT) contract. The ESS Terminals Systems Engineer will play a critical role in ...

pds

Systems Engineer DSP

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$85.22 - $116/hr

Engineer the Future of Space Communications: Join Us as a Systems Engineer Ready to help design the next generation of satellite communication systems that connect the world and support critical ...

SAIC

ESS Terminals Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

SAIC is sub-contractor on the Military Satellite Communications (MILSATCOM) Systems Engineering, Integration and Test (MSEIT) contract. The ESS Terminals Systems Engineer will play a critical role in ...

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All JobsCommunications Systems Engineer JobsCommunications Systems Engineer Jobs in California

Communications Systems Engineer information

See California salary details

$54.3K

$108.4K

$177.6K

How much do communications systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for communications systems engineer in California is $108,440.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,900.00 and $122,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a communications systems engineer do?

A Communications Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining systems that enable the transmission of information, such as voice, data, and video, over various communication networks. They work with technologies like satellite, radio, fiber optics, and wireless systems to ensure reliable and efficient communication. Their role often involves system analysis, troubleshooting, optimization, and integration of hardware and software components to meet specific communication requirements. They may also collaborate with other engineers and stakeholders to develop new technologies or improve existing systems.

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

To thrive as a Communications Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, digital signal processing, and telecommunications, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with simulation tools like MATLAB, network protocols, RF test equipment, and certifications such as CCNA or similar are commonly required. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help in collaborating on complex projects and explaining technical concepts to non-experts. These skills are vital to designing, optimizing, and maintaining reliable communication systems critical for modern connectivity.

What are some common challenges faced by communications systems engineers when integrating new technologies into existing infrastructure?

Communications Systems Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between legacy systems and new technologies, managing potential disruptions during transitions, and meeting tight project deadlines. These professionals must carefully assess system requirements, coordinate with cross-functional teams, and implement thorough testing protocols to minimize risks. Effective communication and adaptability are crucial, as projects frequently involve collaboration with hardware specialists, software developers, and network administrators to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance.

What is the difference between Communications Systems Engineer vs Network Engineer?

AspectCommunications Systems EngineerNetwork Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or related field; certifications like CCNA, Cisco, or CompTIABachelor's in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related; certifications like CCNA, Cisco, or CompTIA
Work EnvironmentDesigning, testing, and maintaining communication systems such as radio, satellite, and fiber opticsDesigning, implementing, and managing computer networks and infrastructure
Industry UsageTelecommunications, defense, aerospace, governmentIT, corporate, service providers, data centers

While both roles require similar certifications and often work in related industries, Communications Systems Engineers focus on designing and maintaining communication infrastructure, whereas Network Engineers primarily manage computer networks. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are popular job titles related to Communications Systems Engineer jobs in California?

For Communications Systems Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Communications Systems Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Communications Systems Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Communications Systems Engineer jobs in CA?

For Communications Systems Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Communications Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Communications Systems Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,440 per year, or $52.1 per hour.

Wireless Communication Systems Engineer

Silvus Technologies

Irvine, CA • Hybrid

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

THE OPPORTUNITY

Silvus is seeking a Wireless Communication Systems Engineer who will report to the R&D Director, Communications Systems on the Research & Development (R&D) team.  The successful individual in this role will participate in all phases of wireless technology projects including planning, design, implementation, prototyping, verification, and validation.

The location for this role is at Silvus Technologies' Engineering and R&D Office in Irvine, CA, near the vibrant Irvine Spectrum. The position is on a hybrid schedule, with a minimum of 4 days/week on-site (with the occasional drive to the LA HQ as needed).  On-site days are Monday through Thursday.

The following is a list of at least some of the current essential job functions of the position. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities at any time at its discretion.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • System design and requirement specification.
  • Algorithmic development, simulation, implementation, and testing.
  • System performance simulation, benchmarking, and testing.
  • Fixed point modeling and FPGA design and verification support.
  • Support FPGA and Software development teams for hardware/software implementation and troubleshooting.
  • Lead a team of multi-disciplinary engineers for product and feature development as needed.
  • Setting, tracking, and driving development schedules and tasks.
  • Design and participate in lab and field testing and troubleshooting.
  • Technical material preparation and documentation.
  • Participate in R&D business development and capture efforts as needed.
  • Understand current products and technologies and brainstorm with other teams for future enhancements and strategies.
  • Infrequent travel to support customer interactions or test and demonstration events.

 REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • MS. degree or Ph.D. degree in the field of wireless communications and signal processing, electrical engineering, computer engineering, systems engineering, or relevant engineering fields.
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience in the design and development of wireless systems.
  • Participation in the complete wireless technology development cycle: from design to field testing.
  • Demonstrated knowledge and experience in RF propagation and channel modeling,
  • Comprehensive expertise in all parts of digital communication systems such as RF subsystems, synchronizations, channel estimation, channel coding, etc.
  • Extensive knowledge and expertise in signal processing algorithms, MIMO, OFDM, etc.
  • Strong understanding of modeling and mitigating RF impairments to signals such as AGC, phase noise, frequency/clock offset, etc.
  • Experience with fixed point modeling, implementation, and verification.
  • Expert in MATLAB programming and simulation.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen due to clients under U.S. government contracts
  • Employment is continent upon the successful clearance of a background check.

PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES

  • Wireless mobile ad-hoc networking, medium access, and routing algorithms.
  • Cognitive radio congested and contested spectrum and interference mitigation.
  • RF sensing, signal detection, and classification, etc.
  • Technical writing and presentation.

 WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Office environment.
  • Occasional exposure to heat, cold, and allergens while performing tests or demonstrations in the field.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to do the following:
  • Lift equipment up to 20 lbs. for the set-up of demonstrations and testing.
  • Perform bending and reaching movements to place items on lower and higher shelves.
  • Kneeling or squatting to access lower shelves.
  • Walking/Moving in the labs.

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