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Entry Level Rf Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Rf Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$41.9K

$133.2K

$207.2K

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

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level rf engineer in Washington, DC is $133,235.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,400.00 and $157,400.00 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 is an entry level RF engineer?

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?

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 Washington, DC? The most popular types of Rf Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Rf Engineer jobs in Washington, DC? For Entry Level Rf Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Rf Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Rf Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Rf Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,235 per year, or $64.1 per hour.

2026 Associate I&T RF Engineer - Dulles VA

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Sterling, VA • On-site

$76K - $114K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 361 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 538 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No
CLEARANCE TYPE: None
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% 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.
Entry Level opportunities at Northrop Grumman are unique. Are you interested in boosting your knowledge through experience and exposure, while supporting a mission that seeks to protect our nation and its allies? If so, then Northrop Grumman is the place you!
Our professionals live and breathe different perspectives; we are curious about the world, accepting each other, and aware that the more ideas, backgrounds, opinions and experiences we bring to our work, the stronger that work will be. Just as you would invest your time and hard work into our company, we focus on investing back into you through enriching professional experiences and high-quality learning and development opportunities. We want you to bring your whole self to work, and for you to have meaningful connections with your coworkers, customers and communities, while providing the best products, systems and technologies to protect our world.
Northrop Grumman is seeking an Associate RF Engineer . This position will be located at our Space sector in Dulles, VA
The qualified candidate will become part of Northrop Grumman's Integration and Test Team.
Duties:
  • Assist lead engineers in testing of RF for spacecraft satellite systems
  • Use electronics test equipment to evaluate system performance, and troubleshoot operation issues.
  • Configure, operate, and troubleshoot RF test equipment, including spectrum analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes, receivers, software-defined radios, antennas, vector network analyzers, data acquisition systems, and related instrumentation.
  • Evaluate RF system performance against defined test requirements
  • Identify test limitations, data gaps, anomalies, instrumentation issues, and equipment problems

Basic Qualifications for the I&T RF Test Engineer:
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or related STEM field
  • Knowledge of RF fundamentals, including frequency, bandwidth, modulation, propagation, antennas, gain/loss, noise, interference, transmitters, receivers, link performance, and signal characterization.
  • Experience using RF test and measurement equipment such as spectrum analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes, antennas, vector network analyzers, receivers, and software-defined radios.
  • Strong troubleshooting and debugging skills across RF hardware and software systems
  • Comfortable performing hands-on work in a fast-paced environment
  • Work effectively with engineers, test personnel, technicians, program managers, Government leads, and cross-functional technical teams.
  • Willing and able to work flexible shifts to include 2nd and 3rd shifts occasionally
  • Able to travel in and out of the country
  • Willing and able to obtain DOD security clearance including a polygraph.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams.

Preferred Qualifications for the I&T RF Test Engineer:
  • Fundamental knowledge of RF, microwave, or electronic systems engineering.
  • Experience reading RF test procedures for engineering or production environments
  • Experience with Python, C++, Matlab, or Labview programming.
  • Experience with hands-on troubleshooting of RF/communications hardware

Salary Range: 76,200 - 114,400
Primary Level Salary Range: $76,200.00 - $114,400.00
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

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

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