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Lte Rf Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Presales Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

APCO P25, LTE, 802.11, 3GPP 4G/5G, FirstNet/Frontline) - highly desirable * Experience with Cloud ... Knowledge of RF coverage predictions, microwave design, traffic/capacity modeling, and related ...

Willingness to learn one or more wireless communication standards (GSM, CDMA, UMTS, LTE, Tetra, etc.). * Ability to meaningfully communicate with members of all engineering disciplines (Hardware, RF ...

... LTE portfolio in their assigned territories/markets through effective customer engagements ... Interface with Engineering as required. * Ensuring that any customer requirements are in-line with ...

Showing results 21-32

Lte Rf Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$38.1K

$121.2K

$188.5K

How much do lte rf engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for lte rf engineer in Chicago, IL is $121,228.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,400.00 and $143,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an LTE RF engineer?

LTE RF Engineers are professionals who specialize in the design, optimization, and maintenance of radio frequency (RF) networks for LTE (Long Term Evolution) wireless communication systems. They ensure that wireless networks provide optimal coverage, capacity, and quality of service. Their responsibilities include RF planning, drive testing, troubleshooting network issues, and implementing solutions to improve network performance. LTE RF Engineers play a critical role in the deployment and continuous improvement of 4G cellular networks.

What are some common challenges faced by LTE RF engineers in optimizing network performance?

LTE RF Engineers often encounter challenges such as mitigating interference, balancing coverage versus capacity, and adapting to rapidly increasing data traffic. They must regularly analyze drive test data, fine-tune parameters, and coordinate with network planning teams to resolve issues like dropped calls or slow data rates. Additionally, they need to stay updated with evolving LTE standards and collaborate closely with field technicians and other engineering teams to implement effective solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an LTE RF engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an LTE RF Engineer, you need a deep understanding of radio frequency principles, LTE network architecture, and wireless communication standards, typically supported by a degree in electrical or telecommunications engineering. Proficiency with RF planning and optimization tools such as Atoll, TEMS, and spectrum analyzers, along with relevant certifications like CCNA or LTE certifications, is essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure optimal network performance, efficient troubleshooting, and successful collaboration with cross-functional teams in dynamic telecom environments.

What is the difference between Lte Rf Engineer vs 5G Rf Engineer?

AspectLte Rf Engineer5G Rf Engineer
CertificationsRF, LTE, RF DesignRF, 5G NR, RF Design
Work EnvironmentCellular network testing, field and labAdvanced 5G network deployment, testing
Industry UsagePrimarily LTE networksPrimarily 5G networks

While both roles focus on radio frequency design and testing, the LTE Rf Engineer specializes in LTE technology, whereas the 5G Rf Engineer works with the newer 5G NR standards. The 5G Rf Engineer typically requires additional knowledge of 5G-specific protocols and equipment, reflecting the evolution of wireless technology.

What job categories do people searching Lte Rf Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Lte Rf Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Lte Rf Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,228 per year, or $58.3 per hour.

Principal Staff Electrical Engineer

Astronics Corporation

Waukegan, IL • On-site

$132K - $161K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Astronics rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 159 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Astronics Subsidiary
Astronics CSC
Location
Waukegan, IL
Description
Astronics Connectivity Systems and Certification (formerly Telefonix PDT and Astronics Armstrong Aerospace) serves as the experienced, global market leader for in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) solutions for aircraft. As a systems certification provider, Astronics CSC has worked on over 100 projects for industry partners to upgrade commercial and business aircraft with new passenger power systems, IFEC navigation, communication and flight safety systems. Additionally, Astronics CSC offers proven IFEC hardware systems, flexible design platforms, high customer satisfaction, and long-term relationships with industry leaders to help make the connected aircraft a reality. The company now employs over 300 employees and is a six-time recipient of Chicago's Best and Brightest Employers to Work For award
Summary:
Experienced developer with proven ability to design for passing EMI/EMC tests and to troubleshoot and diagnosis EMC/EMI qualification testing issues. Development of electrical system architectures, including PCBA level design, BOM management, de-bugging, etc. Also serves as a mentor to the electrical engineers and interns as well as providing direction to the UKR team where needed.
Local 100% onsite position primarily in Lake Zurich, IL and Waukegan, IL. May require occasional travel, < 25% of time, to laboratories in the Chicago region.
Qualifications:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
Education and/or Experience Requirements:
  • BS in Electrical and/or Computer Engineering from an accredited university program with a minimum of 20 years' experience.
  • ECAD experience for schematic capture and layout, preferably Altium Designer.
  • Team player and methodical self-starter able to complete projects in a timely manner.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred:
  • Experience designing for EMI, lighting, pin-injection and other qualification test following DO-160, Boeing, and Airbus standards.
  • Experience generating qualification test procedures and setup diagrams for EMC qualification testing.
  • Experience reviewing board level design and system level design for appropriate grounding techniques and implementation of design techniques to pass EMC qualification tests.
  • Experience troubleshooting and resolving failed EMI/EMC tests, including creating documentation and deviation requests.
  • Board-level and system-level experience implementing RF design principles on RF and/or high-speed digital signals.
  • Software experience in languages or environments such as C/C++, Python, Linux, Bash, Arduino and Raspberry Pi to assist with troubleshooting and engineering evaluation activities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Complete PCBA level design including BOM management, revision control, configuration management, hardware bring-up/debug, and issue tracking.
  • Design of multilayer PCBs that include the following functions: 1. High-speed communication supporting up to10Gbps speeds, 2. Wireless modules or discrete design for 802.11 b/g/n/ac, BTLE, RFID/NFC, and LTE, 3. Microcontroller/Microprocessor circuits, 4. Power management including budgeting, analysis and characterization as it relates to current draw and thermal characteristics, 5. Serial/Peripheral interfaces.
  • Product verification/testing including final analysis and development of tests, reports, and programming scripts.
  • Develop electrical system architectures.
  • Use of and selection of test equipment-oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, meters, supplies, etc.
  • Provide direction to Engineering Technician and on occasion direct support of PCBA assembly, rework, and changes using soldering irons, heat guns, hot plates, etc.
  • Mentor interns and engineers.
  • Provide direction to Ukraine engineers and CAD specialists.
  • Develop and review the creation and evolution of the electrical engineering design process.
  • Support the transfer of design files into the manufacturing process.
  • Support regulatory compliance testing.
  • Become Subject Matter Expert for the manufacturing team on all electrical engineering designs.
  • Lead all level complexity programs including multiple programs concurrently.
  • Subject Matter Expert in all level of complexity programs for technical design reviews.
  • Project management/engineering on cross-functional programs.
  • Working knowledge and awareness of ISO/9001/14000/13485 and AS9100 processes.
  • Support ISO and internal audits of electrical engineering processes.
  • Other duties & functions assigned to this position as necessary

Competencies:
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
  • Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; gathers and analyzes information skillfully; develops alternative solutions.
  • Analytical - Synthesizes complex or diverse information; collects and researches data; parse large amounts of data and distinguish the pieces with a large impact; uses intuition and experience to complement data; designs work flows and procedures; employs logic when solving problems.
  • Technical Skills - Strives for continuous expansion of knowledge and skills; shares expertise with others; builds knowledge base from research and experience.
  • Interpersonal Skills - Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming; maintains confidentiality; remains open to others' ideas and tries new things; takes responsibility and ownership for mistakes.
  • Oral Communication - Listens and gets clarification; responds well to questions; participates in meetings.
  • Teamwork - Exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views; gives and welcomes feedback; contributes to building a positive team spirit.
  • Ethics - Treats people with respect; keeps commitments; inspires the trust of others; works in an ethical manner and with integrity; upholds organizational values.
  • Organizational Support - Disciplined in thought and action; follows policies and procedures; completes administrative tasks correctly and on time; supports organization's goals and values.
  • Planning/Organizing - Prioritizes and plans work activities; uses time efficiently; sets goals and objectives; strives to increase productivity.
  • Professionalism - Approaches others in a tactful manner; reacts well under pressure; treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position; accepts responsibility for own actions; follows through on commitments.
  • Quality - Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; looks for ways to improve and promote quality; applies feedback to improve performance; monitors own work to ensure quality.
  • Safety and Security - Observes safety and security procedures; reports potentially unsafe conditions.
  • Adaptability - Manages competing demands; changes approach or method to best fit the situation; able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events.
  • Attendance/Punctuality - Is consistently at work and on time; ensures work responsibilities are covered when absent; communicates conflicting work/personal needs in a timely manner.
  • Dependability - Follows instructions, responds to management direction; follows up on assigned tasks; commits to long hours of work when necessary to reach goals.

An offer of employment is contingent on successfully passing a drug test and background check, and applicants who do not successfully pass both the drug test and background check will not be considered for employment.
The salary range specified is applicable to positions within the State of Illinois and reflects various factors considered in compensation decisions. These factors include, but are not limited to, individual skill sets, experience, training, licensure, certifications, and the specific needs of our business and organization. At Astronics CSC, it is uncommon for new hires to receive an offer at or near the top end of the range for their role. Compensation decisions are made based on the unique facts and circumstances of each candidate. The current estimated yearly salary range for this position is $120,000 to $150,000 per year. In addition, you will be eligible for our Quarterly Incentive compensation bonus. Astronics offers a competitive salary, along with opportunities for career growth.
Astronics CSC provides a comprehensive benefits package available to full-time employees, with part-time employees potentially eligible for these benefits on a pro-rated basis.
  • Stay Healthy - Health, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, FSA, HSA, as well as voluntary life/AD&D, voluntary critical illness, accident prevention and hospital indemnity.
  • Save for the Future - 401K, Profit Sharing & Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • The Astronics Corporation Profit Sharing/ 401(k) Plan is a "safe harbor" plan. Under the plan, Astronics has committed to contribute 3% of your eligible wages, with the ability to do an annual discretionary adder on top.
  • Find Balance - Employee Assistance Program & Wellness Program
  • Time for You - Generous Paid Time Off (PTOS), Volunteer Time Off Program (VTO), Paid Holidays and Paid Parental Leave.
  • Professional Growth - Tuition Reimbursement Program

Accommodation Request
Astronics CSC is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with physical and mental disabilities. If you need special assistance or an accommodation while seeking employment, please e-mail CSC-HR-All@astronics.com or call: 847-244-4500. We will make a determination on your request for reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.
Additional Information:
This position may involve access to items subject to U.S. export-control laws. Employment is contingent upon the employee's authorization to access such items under applicable law. The company does not guarantee and is under no obligation to seek such authorization if it would be necessary.
Position Requirements
Full-Time/Part-Time
Full-Time
About the Organization
Astronics Corporation (Nasdaq: ATRO) serves the world's aerospace, defense, and other mission critical industries with proven, innovative technology solutions. Astronics works side-by-side with customers, integrating its array of power, connectivity, lighting, structures, interiors, and test technologies to solve complex challenges. For over 50 years, Astronics has delivered creative, customer-focused solutions with exceptional responsiveness. Today, global airframe manufacturers, airlines, militaries, completion centers and Fortune 500 companies rely on the collaborative spirit and innovation of Astronics. The Company's strategy is to increase its value by developing technologies and capabilities that provide innovative solutions to its targeted markets.
For more information on Astronics and its solutions, visit www.Astronics.com.
EOE Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.
This position is currently accepting applications.

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