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Entry Level Rf Engineer Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

We are hiring entry-level employees to fill positions with CTDI. No experience is required ... CTDI is a family-owned full-service logistics, repair, and engineering company that services the ...

We are hiring entry-level employees to fill positions with CTDI. No experience is required ... CTDI is a family-owned full-service logistics, repair, and engineering company that services the ...

This is an entry level position and training will be provided. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES * Configure ... education in RF, satellite, video and/or electronics * Practical engineering experience

Entry Level Rf Engineer information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$37.1K

$118K

$183.4K

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

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level rf engineer in Pennsylvania is $117,963.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,700.00 and $139,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level RF Engineers during their first year, and how can they effectively overcome them?

Entry-level RF Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting signal interference, learning to use specialized testing equipment, and understanding complex system documentation. Adjusting to the fast-paced nature of project timelines and collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams can also be demanding. Proactively seeking mentorship, participating in hands-on training, and regularly reviewing technical documentation can help new engineers build confidence and skill. Open communication with senior engineers and asking questions when unsure are key strategies for overcoming initial hurdles.

What are Entry Level RF Engineers?

Entry Level RF (Radio Frequency) Engineers are professionals who assist in designing, testing, and maintaining wireless communication systems, typically at the beginning of their careers. They work on RF circuits, antennas, and communication equipment under the supervision of senior engineers. Their responsibilities often include conducting signal analysis, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring devices comply with performance standards. Entry-level RF Engineers usually have a degree in electrical engineering or a related field and may work for telecom companies, defense contractors, or electronics manufacturers.

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

AspectEntry Level Rf EngineerRadio Frequency Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering or related field; certifications like FCC license often preferredTechnical diploma or associate degree; FCC license may be required
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, engineering teams, project planningFieldwork, installation sites, maintenance facilities
Employer & Industry UsageTelecom companies, electronics firms, defense contractorsBroadcast stations, telecom providers, maintenance companies

Entry Level Rf Engineers focus on designing and developing RF systems, while Radio Frequency Technicians handle installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of RF equipment. Both roles require FCC licensing and technical knowledge, but differ mainly in scope and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level RF Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level RF Engineer, you need a solid understanding of radio frequency principles, circuit design, and signal processing, typically backed by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with RF simulation tools (such as CST, HFSS, or ADS), spectrum analyzers, and network analyzers is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this position. These skills are crucial for designing, testing, and optimizing RF systems to ensure reliable wireless communication and meet project requirements.
What are the most commonly searched types of Rf Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania? The most popular types of Rf Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Rf Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania? For Entry Level Rf Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Rf Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Rf Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Entry Level Rf Engineer jobs? Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Entry Level Rf Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Rf Engineer job openings in Pennsylvania as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,963 per year, or $56.7 per hour.

RF Research and Development Engineer

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

$76K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Penn State University rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 100 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

173rd of 534 rated colleges and universities


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
The Antennas, Computational Electromagnetics, and Propagation Department of the Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University is seeking an entry level Research and Development Engineer to participate in the solving of complex RF Propagation projects. The primary research focus is RF Propagation from ELF to millimeter wave.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You will:
  • Use accepted methods and techniques, design, develop, and implement of RF propagation models including environmental effects such as space weather and meteorology. Also, you will use RF propagation models to analyze the effectiveness of engineering products, systems, and subsystems
  • Develop novel techniques in RF propagation including new mathematical derivations of both electromagnetic phenomena and relevant environmental factors such as radio space weather and meteorology
  • Conduct RF propagation experiments/tests in the laboratory/field to test, prove, or modify theoretical propositions on basis of research findings and experiences of others researching in related technical areas; includes taking measurements and recording observations, collecting, compiling, and processing data
  • Document data/findings in technical reports, documents, or oral/written presentations
  • Create opportunities to improve RF propagation modeling and analysis capability either extending existing capability, developing new methods, or diversifying into new applications
  • Provide innovative problem-solving approaches to enhance RF propagation modeling and analysis capabilities; use peer network to expand technical capabilities and identify new research opportunities
  • Learn broad strategic objectives and applications of RF propagation modeling analysis, develop relationships with major sponsors of external research, and develop grant funding
  • Research and identify follow-on research projects and/or initiate new project concepts; contribute to technical proposals; and make presentations to customers.

This position can be filled at multiple levels, depending on your education and work experience. Minimumally require a Bachelors' degree in an Engineering or Science related discipline. Additional education and/or experience required for higher level positions. A Masters' degree or PHD in Mathematics or Electrical Engineering is preferred.
Required skills include:
  • Experience in RF Propagation mathematical methods, implementation of new and established methods, and application of methods to solve specific problems
  • Demonstrated ability to document research findings in whitepapers and technical reports
  • Proven experience implementing scientific or technical solutions independently with guidance from mentors
  • Demonstrated understanding and experience with end to end design, implementation, and testing of technical and scientific solutions
  • Effective at presenting in front of large groups of senior level professionals
  • Opportunity to develop and write white papers
  • Any software/experiences that ARE necessary to be offered the position/must be held by candidate: fluent in multiple various scientific programming languages from Matlab, Python, C++, and FORTRAN; proven ability to read and understand complex applied mathematics and numerical implementations

Preferred skills include:
  • Current active security clearance
  • Ability to learn new programming languages and tools, mathematical techniques and numerical implementations

Position can allow for hybrid on-site/work from home in the State College, PA area.
ARL at Penn State is an integral part of one of the leading research universities in the nation and serves as a University center of excellence in defense science, systems, and technologies with a focus in naval missions and related areas.
You will be subject to a government security investigation. An active security clearance is highly desired. You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply. Employment with ARL will require successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu.
**The proposed salary range may be impacted by geographic differential.**
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades is:
$76,700.00 - $129,500.00
Salary Structure - additional information on Penn State's job and salary structure.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
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