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Communications Systems Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Overland AI

Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$140K - $190K/yr

Role Summary Overland AI is hiring a Systems Engineer to support engineering execution and grow ... Strong organizational and technical communication skills, including clear note-taking, action ...

Utter Associates Inc

Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

The Systems Engineer is a full-time position that performs systems engineering, product ... Ability to communicate and interact effectively with diverse audiences across different departments.

Zeno Power

Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Systems Engineer Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Systems Engineer to support the engineering ... Must have excellent written and oral communication skills Job Functions * Position requires in ...

Zeno Power

Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA

$125K - $175K/yr

Systems Engineer Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Systems Engineer to support the engineering ... Must have excellent written and oral communication skills Job Functions * Position requires in ...

Zeno Power

Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Systems Engineer Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Systems Engineer to support the engineering ... Must have excellent written and oral communication skills Job Functions * Position requires in ...

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All JobsCommunications Systems Engineer JobsCommunications Systems Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Communications Systems Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$62.6K

$125K

$204.8K

How much do communications systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for communications systems engineer in Seattle, WA is $125,045.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,700.00 and $141,700.00 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 Seattle, WA?

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

What job categories do people searching Communications Systems Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Communications Systems Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Communications Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Communications Systems Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,045 per year, or $60.1 per hour.

Senior Staff Engineer, Communications Systems (R5623)

Shield AI

Seattle, WA • On-site

$170K - $260K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI's technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 

Job Description:
Shield AI is redefining autonomous aviation with cutting-edge AI and GPS/RF-denied navigation technologies. Now, we're building a next-generation aircraft like no other-one that will push the boundaries of innovation and performance.
 
Shield AI is seeking a Communications Systems Engineer to lead the design, integration, and optimization of advanced communication systems for our next-generation autonomous aircraft.
 
This is a high-impact role where you will be responsible for mission-critical data links, encryption, and secure communications, ensuring seamless interoperability between airborne, sensor, ground, and satellite systems. You will work across sensor fusion, RF systems, SATCOM, and AI-driven data processing to deliver an aircraft capable of operating in contested environments with low latency and high reliability.
 
What you'll do:
  • Lead the development and integration of data links, encryption, and secure communication architectures into the aircraft platform.
  • Define system-level requirements and architectures for RF, SATCOM, optical, and software-defined radio (SDR) communication systems.
  • Optimize low-latency, high-bandwidth data transfer and encryption to ensure mission-critical performance.
  • Ensure seamless connectivity between the aircraft, command centers, and satellite networks, enhancing real-time data transmission and autonomy.
  • Develop AI-driven sensor fusion algorithms to enhance payload performance in high-threat environments.
  • Collaborate with avionics, software, and autonomy teams to ensure robust and secure system integration.
  • Validate performance through simulation, flight testing, and field deployments.
  • Work with DoD stakeholders and compliance teams to ensure mission readiness and adherence to cybersecurity standards
Required qualifications:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
  • 8+ years of experience in RF communications or mission systems integration for UAVs or military aircraft.
  • Strong expertise in RF systems, satellite communications (SATCOM), tactical data links (Link-16, CDL), and sensor integration.
  • Proficiency in software-defined radio (SDR) technologies and secure, encrypted data transmission.
  • Experience writing specifications for communications subsystems and architectures.
  • Knowledge of MIL-STD-1553, ARINC 429, and other aerospace data bus standards.
  • Experience working with classified communication protocols and DoD compliance.
  • Active Secret clearance.
  • Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience working with AI-enhanced signal processing and sensor fusion for ISR missions.
  • Background in low-observable (stealth) communications architectures.
  • Familiarity with electronic warfare (EW) and RF threat mitigation techniques.
  • Experience supporting DoD or intelligence community mission operations.
  • Active Top Secret clearance or eligible to achieve, as well as SCI eligible.
$170,000 - $260,000 a year
Seattle, Washington pay range: $210,000 - $320,000
#LI-SM1
#LF

Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
 
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
 
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
 
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Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. 
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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