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Ham Radio Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

RF Engineer

Reston, VA

$225K - $275K/yr

HAM radio or other practical experience desired * Must have experience providing maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, calibration and upgrades of electronics and communication products * Must have ...

RF Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$225K - $275K/yr

HAM radio or other practical experience desired * Must have experience providing maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, calibration and upgrades of electronics and communication products * Must have ...

RF Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$225 - $275/hr

HAM radio or other practical experience desired * Must have experience providing maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, calibration and upgrades of electronics and communication products * Must have ...

RF Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$225K - $275K/yr

HAM radio or other practical experience desired * Must have experience providing maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, calibration and upgrades of electronics and communication products * Must have ...

RF Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$225 - $275/hr

HAM radio or other practical experience desired * Must have experience providing maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, calibration and upgrades of electronics and communication products * Must have ...

Vital radio communication with staff during principal movements, as well as during normal operations. * Maintain and update databases. * Perform other duties as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS: * Minimum 18 ...

Vital radio communication with staff during principal movements, as well as during normal operations. * Maintain and update databases. * Perform other duties as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS: * Minimum 18 ...

Operator

Louisa, VA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Job Title: Operator Job Location: Louisa, Virginia United States At Tetra Pak we commit to making food safe and available, everywhere; and we protect what's good - protecting food, protecting people ...

SIGINT Operator (P4)

Sterling, VA · On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

... Radio Operations, Cyber Security, Network Engineering/Security, Information Technology (with degree), HAM Operations and certification Education and Experience: * Bachelor's Degree and eight (8) ...

Signals Intelligence Officer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$57.70 - $67.31/hr

... Radio Operations, or HAM Operations * Knowledge of PTT, 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, or WiFi technologies * Ability to work as part of a small team * Ability to conduct weekly rotating shift work * TS/SCI ...

SIGINT Operator

Sterling, VA · On-site

$77K - $163K/yr

... Radio Operations, Cyber Security, Network Engineering/Security, Information Technology (with degree), HAM Operations and certification Education and Experience: * Bachelor's Degree and five (5) years ...

Signals Intelligence Officer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$57.70 - $67.31/hr

You Have: * 4+ years of experience in SIGINT collection, analysis, or targeting, ELINT collection or analysis, Electronic Warfare (EW), Cryptologic Linguistics, Radio Operations, or HAM Operations

... Radio Operations, Cyber Security, Network Engineering/Security, Information Technology (with degree), HAM Operations and certification Education and Experience: * Bachelor's Degree and five (5) years ...

... Radio Operations, Cyber Security, Network Engineering/Security, Information Technology (with degree), HAM Operations and certification Education and Experience: * Bachelor's Degree and eight (8) ...

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Showing results 1-20

Ham Radio information

What is a ham radio operator?

A ham radio operator is an individual who is licensed to use amateur radio equipment for non-commercial communication. Ham radio operators, also known as 'hams,' communicate with others locally or around the world using various radio frequencies. They often participate in emergency communications, technical experimentation, and community events. To operate legally, hams must pass an exam and obtain a license from the appropriate government authority. Ham radio is both a hobby and a valuable public service.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ham radio operator?

To thrive as a Ham Radio Operator, you need a solid understanding of radio theory, electronics, and operating procedures, typically obtained by earning an amateur radio license. Familiarity with transceivers, antennas, digital modes, and logging software is essential for effective communication. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and clear communication skills help operators manage equipment and coordinate with other radio enthusiasts. These skills are important for ensuring reliable transmissions, troubleshooting technical issues, and fostering a collaborative ham radio community.

What are some common challenges faced by ham radio operators in modern workplaces, and how can they be addressed?

Ham radio operators often face challenges such as securing appropriate licenses, accessing quality equipment, and finding time to practice their skills in a busy work environment. Additionally, interference from modern electronic devices can impact signal clarity, requiring operators to stay updated on best practices for minimizing disruptions. Collaboration with IT and technical teams is key to ensuring equipment compatibility and resolving interference issues, while joining local ham radio clubs or online communities can provide ongoing support and opportunities for professional growth.

What is the difference between Ham Radio vs Radio Operator?

AspectHam RadioRadio Operator
Required credentialsAmateur Radio License (e.g., Technician, General)FCC Radio Operator Permit or license (varies by country)
Work environmentHobbyist setting, personal stations, public service eventsCommercial, military, or public safety communications
Industry usageAmateur radio community, emergency communicationMaritime, aviation, military, emergency services
Common search intentHobby, personal communication, emergency preparednessProfessional communication, safety, operational roles

Ham Radio and Radio Operator roles share similarities in licensing and communication methods but differ mainly in purpose and environment. Ham Radio is a hobbyist activity focused on personal and emergency communication, while Radio Operators often work in professional settings such as maritime, aviation, or military sectors. Both require licensing, but the specific credentials and usage contexts vary.

Is it worth becoming a ham radio operator?

Becoming a ham radio operator involves obtaining a license, learning radio operation skills, and maintaining equipment. It can be a rewarding hobby or communication skill, especially for emergency preparedness and technical interest, but it requires time and commitment to stay licensed and proficient.

What are popular job titles related to Ham Radio jobs in Virginia?

For Ham Radio jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Ham Radio job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

$225K - $275K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Overview

Steely is a fast-growing, high-tech, mission-driven company based out of Reston, Virginia that prides itself on delivering technical and mission-related solutions that allow our customers to succeed in achieving their most challenging goals.   

We are a close-knit team of highly motivated and skilled individuals that are focused on a commitment to facing the most complex and difficult efforts head-on with a balance of creativity and discipline, and an unwavering nerve.    

Steely is looking for a like-minded individual to join our team as aRF Engineer.

Our Team embraces the concept that the sky's the limit. Regardless of where you are at in your career, our goal is to work with you to refine your skills, add to your technical tool belt, and aid you in your growth as a professional. We offergrowth opportunitiessuch as leadership training, industry conferences, and mentorship from experienced, passionate individuals.  

Candidates must have an active, Top Secret security clearance.

Responsibilities
  • Prior experience supporting customers in remote field locations; operations experience; training development and delivery experience 
  • CONUS and OCONUS travel as dictated by mission support requirements 
  • Ability to design, test, evaluate radio / RF communications systems 
  • Ability to independently assemble and operate electronic and mechanical equipment including antennas and satellite dishes in field environments 
  • Serve as Subject Matter Expert (SME) on all equipment and procedures for Steely's products 
  • Provide flexible daily office hours as needed to support customers and deployed systems 
  • Maintain and support existing RF infrastructure 
  • Observe and follow proper safety precautions in performance of all work 
  • Work may require physical effort in the handling of materials, boxes, or equipment 
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a similar technical degree 
  • Experience with RF and signals and communications concepts. Topics include software defined radio, I/Q capture, spectrum survey, signal modulation and coding, multiple access schemes, etc.; HAM radio or other practical experience desired 
  • Must have experience providing maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, calibration and upgrades of electronics and communication products 
  • Must have direct experience with systems supporting wireless protocols including VSAT or other satellite communications 
  • Must be a committed team player and work well with other contractors and vendor partners under adverse conditions 
  • Must have strong customer relationship and communication skills 
  • Must have established troubleshooting technical skills and be able to clearly articulate issues to design engineers; capturing issue and writing trouble reports as necessary 
  • Experience using test equipment such as spectrum analyzers and network analyzers to perform signal survey, analysis, and troubleshooting 
  • Familiarity and comfort with RF componentry including specifying, evaluating, testing, and troubleshooting 
  • Strong flexibility to adapt in a dynamic environment with frequently changing requirements 
  • Familiarity with basic scripting or programming and automation (Python, BASH, etc) is highly desirable 
  • Comfort working with Linux based systems and basic computer networking 
  • Systems test engineering experience 
  • Technical leadership and organizational skills to manage multiple project

Our Benefits 

  • 401(k) match of 6% with immediate vesting 
  • Highly subsidized Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance 
  • Legal Resources Plan 
  • Vacation, Personal and Sick Leave (not combined as Paid Time Off) 
  • 11 Federal Holidays 
  • Life Insurance, Short and Long-term Disability coverage paid for by the company 
  • Free drinks and snacks 
  • Company sponsored weekly breakfast or lunch 
  • Holiday parties and networking events 
  • Participation in several charitable events 

Compensation

We believe in paying fairly and competitively based on the value each team member brings to the role. Individual compensation is determined by factors such as skills, experience, education, certifications, location, and market data. The anticipated salary range for this position is $225,000 - $275,000 annually.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, religion, gender, national origin, color, age, military service eligibility or veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or any other protected class. We encourage and support workplace diversity. 

Employment Type: FULL_TIME