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Entry Level Rf Communications Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

QUANTUM COMPUTING, INC.

RF Systems Engineer

Hoboken, NJ · Hybrid

$104K - $147K/yr

RF/Systems Engineer Location: Hoboken, NJ Division: Revenue Department: Defense About Us: Quantum ... Strong experience with RF communication bands, modulations and protocols. * Hands-on experience ...

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Entry Level Rf Communications Engineer information

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$62.5K

$110.7K

$137.5K

How much do entry level rf communications engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level rf communications engineer in the United States is $110,693.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,500.00 and $130,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level RF communications engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level RF Communications Engineer, you need a solid understanding of radio frequency principles, circuit design, and a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with RF simulation tools such as Keysight ADS, MATLAB, and network analyzers, as well as any relevant industry certifications, is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set candidates apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for developing reliable RF systems, collaborating on technical teams, and ensuring successful project outcomes in the fast-evolving communications industry.

What is the difference between Entry Level Rf Communications Engineer vs Radio Frequency Technician?

AspectEntry Level Rf Communications EngineerRadio Frequency Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field; certifications like FCC licensesAssociate's degree or technical certification; FCC licensing often required
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and troubleshooting RF systems; office and lab settingsInstallation, maintenance, and repair of RF equipment; field and technical environments
Industry UsageTelecommunications, defense, aerospaceBroadcasting, telecommunications, military
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both roles involve RF technology, Entry Level Rf Communications Engineers focus on designing and testing RF systems, often requiring a degree and certifications. Radio Frequency Technicians primarily handle installation and maintenance of RF equipment, typically with technical training. Both roles are essential in telecommunications and related industries, but they differ in responsibilities and work environments.

What are some common challenges entry level RF communications engineers face during their first year on the job?

Entry-level RF Communications Engineers often encounter challenges such as learning to use specialized test equipment, interpreting complex signal data, and troubleshooting interference issues in real-world environments. Adapting to fast-paced project timelines while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards is also common. New engineers typically work closely with senior team members and cross-functional teams, which helps them quickly develop both technical and communication skills. Overcoming these initial hurdles is a valuable part of the learning process and can set the foundation for future growth in the field.

What does an entry level RF communications engineer do?

An Entry Level RF Communications Engineer helps design, test, and maintain radio frequency (RF) systems and components, such as antennas, transmitters, and receivers. They often assist senior engineers in analyzing RF signals, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring systems meet performance standards. Their work supports wireless communication technologies used in industries like telecommunications, defense, and broadcasting. Typically, they also use specialized software and equipment to model and measure RF performance as part of a larger engineering team.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Rf Communications Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Rf Communications Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Rf Communications Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Rf Communications Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Rf Communications Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Rf Communications Engineer jobs include:
Entry Level Rf Communications Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Rf Communications Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,693 per year, or $53.2 per hour.

RF Phased Array Engineer I/II

Rocket Lab Corporation

Long Beach, CA

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we're not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it's a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

RF PHASED ARRAY ENGINEER I/II

Based at Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the RF Phased Array Engineer is responsible for the development of new RF products and systems (including Rocket Lab's phased arrays) and assessment of COTS components. The RF Phased Array Engineer will model and simulate antenna performance for current programs and proposals. The successful candidate will have a strong understanding of antennas at the component and system level and will thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

Product Development

  • Support end to end efforts including architecture design, prototyping, integration, test, and flight development – Ensure key design decisions and developments are in alignment with product / system needs
  • Model and simulate array performance
  • Work alongside an interdisciplinary team of RF, digital, power, mechanical, thermal, and structural engineers
  • Support transition developments from new product introduction to production
  • Interface with vendors and customers
  • Develop test plans and procedures for testing active antennas – included EIRP & G/T
  • Design and development of GSE and production automation
  • Support the development of product documentation including ICDs and User Manuals

Customer/Program Support

  • Support proposals and requirements specifications to assess compliance based on existing unit capabilities vs development needs
  • Implement development activities for new requirements
  • Support engineering reviews such as PDRs, CDRs and TRRs
  • Provide technical support to internal/external customers including general questions and anomaly troubleshooting
  • Maintain broad awareness of product development and production schedules to ensure the needs of customers and programs are satisfied

(Note: This position can be filled at an RF Phased Array Engineer I or RF Phased Array Engineer II level.)

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS RF PHASED ARRAY ENGINEER I:

  • Bachelors degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or an equivalent qualification)
  • Fundamental RF knowledge including link budget analysis and linearity. A solid theoretical and practical understanding of RF communications and navigation systems and components
  • Basic knowledge of antenna and array modeling
  • Ability to obtain TS / SCI

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS RF PHASED ARRAY ENGINEER II:

  • Bachelors degree in electrical engineering, RF communications (or an equivalent qualification) and 2+ years of relevant experience
  • Fundamental RF knowledge including link budget analysis and linearity. A solid theoretical and practical understanding of RF communications and navigation systems and components
  • Basic knowledge of antenna and array modeling
  • Ability to obtain TS / SCI

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Extensive experience in space grade system design
  • Extensive experience in analyses including worst case, reliability, FMECA, thermal, and derating analyses
  • Extensive experience supporting and leading complex engineering programs and developing associated documentation
  • Experience designing, integrating, and testing RF communications systems for launch vehicles or satellites
  • Demonstrated expertise in mentoring others.
  • Experience leading incident management and investigations.
  • Experience in conflict resolution and dealing with difficult people.
  • The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
  • Effective communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships
  • Project management experience

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company's discretion.

Base Pay Range (CA Only)
$82,000—$126,000 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.

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