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Junior Rf Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

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Junior Rf Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$37.9K

$81.3K

$124K

How much do junior rf engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior rf engineer in Washington, DC is $81,304.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,900.00 and $90,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Junior RF Engineers during their first year on the job?

Junior RF Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex signal issues, adapting to rapidly changing technology, and interpreting technical documentation. They may also find it challenging to balance hands-on fieldwork with desk-based analysis and to communicate technical findings to non-technical team members. Gaining proficiency in industry-standard software tools and learning to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams are also common hurdles that, once overcome, contribute significantly to professional growth.

What are Junior RF Engineers?

Junior RF Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in the design, testing, and maintenance of radio frequency (RF) systems and equipment. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers and help with tasks such as signal analysis, equipment troubleshooting, and network optimization. Their responsibilities may include collecting data, performing basic simulations, and supporting the development of wireless communication systems. This role is an excellent starting point for those looking to build a career in RF engineering and telecommunications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Junior RF Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior RF Engineer, you need a solid understanding of radio frequency principles, circuit design, and telecommunications, typically with a degree in electrical or electronics engineering. Familiarity with tools like spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, RF simulation software (e.g., CST, HFSS), and knowledge of industry standards are highly valued. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are important soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate system design, troubleshooting, and collaboration essential to the successful deployment and maintenance of RF systems.

What is the difference between Junior Rf Engineer vs RF Technician?

AspectJunior Rf EngineerRF Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering or related field; some certificationsTechnical diploma or associate degree; specialized training
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and development in labs or officesFieldwork, installation, and maintenance at sites
Employer & Industry UsageTelecom, aerospace, defense companiesTelecom providers, network service companies

The main difference is that Junior Rf Engineers focus on designing and testing RF systems, often requiring a degree and some certifications, while RF Technicians handle installation and maintenance tasks in the field with more technical training. Both roles are essential in the telecom and RF industry but serve different functions based on skills and responsibilities.

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:
Junior Radio Frequency (RF) Electrical Engineer

Junior Radio Frequency (RF) Electrical Engineer

Leidos

Washington Navy Yard, DC

$57K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 426 rated business services


Job description

Description

Leidos’ NISC IV program seeks a Junior Electrical Engineer to support the FAA Spectrum Engineering Services Group.

The Spectrum Engineering Group is responsible for securing, managing, and protecting all civil aviation spectrum resources to ensure interference-free operation of FAA communications, navigation, and surveillance (CNS) systems across the National Airspace System (NAS).

The ideal candidate will have an electrical engineering degree and up to two years of radio frequency engineering experience. This role performs engineering and coordinating of frequency assignment actions for primary surveillance radar systems, air-to-ground voice communication, Land mobile radio, microwave, satellite, and various other Radio Frequency (RF) Spectrum Engineering disciplines while ensuring compliance with FAA Order 6050.32 and NTIA Redbook requirements.

Must be near one of the following FAA locations:

FAA HQ (DC), Egg Harbor Township (NJ), or Oklahoma City

Core Responsibilities (All Bands):

  • Contributes to the planning, coordination, and execution of FAA and non-FAA frequency assignment actions, ensuring that technical analyses and documentation conform to FAA Orders, the NTIA Manual (Redbook), and established engineering standards.
  • Perform radio-frequency compatibility analyses using the FAA’s spectrum-automation and modeling tools to identify and mitigate potential interference among communications, navigation, and surveillance systems.
  • Conduct RF propagation, link-budget, EMC, and interference analyses using FAA spectrum-automation and modeling tools.
  • Validate all technical data (location, equipment, parameters, emission designator, power, bandwidth, and antenna characteristics) for completeness and accuracy.
  • Collaborates closely with other federal and contractor engineers, Service Area Spectrum Offices, and FAA program offices to resolve technical issues and advance records through the assignment and coordination process.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or completion of a formal spectrum management course or equivalent military experience in spectrum management.
  • Less than 2 years of relevant experience in radio frequency engineering.
  • Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Ability to learn FAA-specific software and systems.
  • Must be a US citizen.
  • Must have a security clearance of Secret or higher or be able to meet the requirements for one.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Knowledge of spectrum-engineering principles, electromagnetic theory, and radio-frequency propagation as applied to communications, navigation, and surveillance systems that support the National Airspace System (NAS).
  • Experience in applying analytical and automation tools to perform frequency-assignment processing, data validation, and compatibility analysis, with attention to accuracy and completeness.
  • Experience evaluating radio-frequency system parameters to identify and mitigate potential interference and resolving routine and complex spectrum-engineering problems.
  • Familiar with Spectrum XXI or similar federal spectrum management tools is highly desirable.
  • Ability to perform engineering calculations (FSPL, link budgets, noise/interference ratios, power conversions).
  • Ability to interpret technical data and apply mitigation best practices to resolve RF interference issues affecting aviation systems.
  • Knowledge of roles and responsibilities of spectrum management within the National Airspace System (NAS).
  • Knowledge of frequency management practices, including engineering, assignment, and protection of radio frequencies, and the National Telecommunication and Information Administration (NTIA) Redbook.
  • Knowledge of and experience with various frequency policy organizations, including National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), Interdepartmental Radio Advisory Committee (IRAC), and associated sub-committees, and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo — because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 — and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:June 3, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $57,850.00 - $104,575.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

About Leidos

Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with 47,000 global employees, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2025. For more information, visit www.Leidos.com.

Pay and Benefits

Pay and benefits are fundamental to any career decision. That's why we craft compensation packages that reflect the importance of the work we do for our customers. Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement. More details are available at www.leidos.com/careers/pay-benefits.

Securing Your Data

Beware of fake employment opportunities using Leidos’ name. Leidos will never ask you to provide payment-related information during any part of the employment application process (i.e., ask you for money), nor will Leidos ever advance money as part of the hiring process (i.e., send you a check or money order before doing any work). Further, Leidos will only communicate with you through emails that are generated by the Leidos.com automated system – never from free commercial services (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail) or via WhatsApp, Telegram, etc. If you received an email purporting to be from Leidos that asks for payment-related information or any other personal information (e.g., about you or your previous employer), and you are concerned about its legitimacy, please make us aware immediately by emailing us at LeidosCareersFraud@leidos.com.

If you believe you are the victim of a scam, contact your local law enforcement and report the incident to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.


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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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