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Microwave Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Tower Eleven

RF Spatial Engineer

Garden Grove, CA · On-site

$155K - $165K/yr

RF Spatial Engineer Aerospace & Defense Location: Cypress, CA Work Arrangement: Onsite Employment ... Architect, simulate, and develop RF/microwave circuits and subsystems, including SSPAs, BUCs, power ...

JT4 LLC

Microwave Engineering Technician IV

Edwards, CA · On-site

... The Microwave Engineering Technician IV position is responsible for real-time microwave operations. This includes providing real-time support, maintaining end-to-end connectivity for pre-mission ...

Arxlight

Computer Vision & Autonomy Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$100 - $130/hr

As a Computer Vision & Autonomy Engineer , you will be joining the team responsible for the design, development, and implementation of high-speed perception and autonomy stacks capable of identifying ...

New

Muon Space

Microwave Systems Lead

San Jose, CA · On-site +1

$202K - $223K/yr

Extensive background in design and hardware engineering of microwave instruments * Deep ... understanding of DSP implementation for microwave instruments * Familiarity with the generation of ...

Q Microwave

RF Manufacturing Engineer

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Description Q Microwave, a leader in the precision RF manufacturing, design and manufacture of cutting-edge military and defense microwave solutions, is seeking a RF Manufacturing Engineer to join ...

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All JobsMicrowave Engineer JobsMicrowave Engineer Jobs in California

Microwave Engineer information

See California salary details

$35.5K

$92.9K

$138.7K

How much do microwave engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for microwave engineer in California is $92,867.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,500.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a microwave engineer?

Microwave Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test devices and systems that operate in the microwave frequency range, typically from 300 MHz to 300 GHz. Their work includes creating components such as antennas, transmitters, receivers, and waveguides used in applications like telecommunications, radar, satellite communications, and medical equipment. They often use specialized simulation software and testing equipment to ensure optimal performance and compliance with industry standards. Microwave Engineers typically have backgrounds in electrical engineering, physics, or related fields.

What is microwave engineering?

Microwave engineering involves the theory and development of microwave circuits, systems, and components. As a microwave engineer, you specialize in the design, production, and repair of devices that move small electromagnetic waves. Your duties may involve meeting with clients to determine product specifications, working with computer programs to model potential product designs, and testing the models for performance and quality. You may also check your designed products against FCC guidelines and oversee the development process. The career typically requires at least a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field and relevant work experience. Management positions may require a master’s degree and five or more years of experience. Additional qualifications include excellent analytical, technical, and communication skills, along with the ability to work as part of a team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a microwave engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Microwave Engineer, you need a solid background in RF engineering, electromagnetic theory, and a degree in electrical or electronics engineering. Familiarity with design and simulation tools such as HFSS, CST, ADS, and experience with network analyzers and spectrum analyzers are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate and troubleshoot complex technical issues. These skills and qualities are crucial for designing reliable high-frequency systems and ensuring optimal performance in telecommunications, radar, and satellite applications.

What are some common challenges microwave engineers face when working on wireless communication systems?

Microwave Engineers often encounter challenges such as minimizing signal loss, managing interference, and ensuring system reliability in complex environments. They must carefully design and test components to handle high-frequency signals while complying with safety and regulatory standards. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as hardware designers and project managers, is essential to troubleshoot issues and optimize system performance. Staying current with emerging technologies and evolving industry standards is also crucial for long-term success in this role.

What is the difference between Microwave Engineer vs RF Engineer?

AspectMicrowave EngineerRF Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, certifications in microwave technologyBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, certifications in RF and wireless systems
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, manufacturing plantsTelecom companies, testing labs, field sites
Industry UsageCommunications, radar, satellite systemsWireless networks, mobile devices, broadcasting

Microwave Engineers focus on designing and testing microwave frequency systems, often working with high-frequency components. RF Engineers work on radio frequency systems, including wireless communication and broadcasting. While both roles require similar credentials and work environments, Microwave Engineers specialize in microwave-specific applications, whereas RF Engineers cover a broader range of radio frequency systems.

Is microwave engineering hard?

Microwave engineering can be challenging as it requires understanding complex concepts such as electromagnetic theory, RF circuit design, and signal processing. Success in this field often depends on strong technical skills, proficiency with simulation tools, and a solid foundation in physics and mathematics.
More about Microwave Engineer jobs

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For Microwave Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Microwave Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Microwave Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $92,867 per year, or $44.6 per hour.

RF/Microwave Engineer - Senior Member of Technical Staff

The Aerospace Corporation

El Segundo, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.
At the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country's space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration. With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions. Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD!
The Communication Electronics Department is looking for an RF/Microwave Engineer who wants their work to matter - someone ready to own projects across the lifecycle of analysis, design, and measurement that will transform the next generation of RF and microwave space systems.
Why We're Different:
  • Ownership. Not just "contributor to slide 47 of a PowerPoint." You'll lead projects that shape and define the future of space.
  • Flexibility that respects your capabilities. Choose your approach; experiment and iterate. We trust you to solve hard problems your way.
  • Collegial, not corporate. Think academic research lab meets mission-critical engineering. We collaborate across disciplines, debate and share ideas, and foster an open and curious culture.
  • Two-way learning. We'll invest in your growth-and we genuinely want to learn from your expertise.

The selected candidate will be required to work full time on-site at our facility at El Segundo, CA.
What You'll Be Doing
  • Shape the future of space hardware - Provide expert guidance on radar, sensor, and communication payloads that contractors build for critical government missions
  • Master the art of measurement - employ advanced microwave measurement techniques and operate specialized microwave test equipment
  • Build what doesn't exist yet - Create RF payload prototypes and emulators that bridge the gap between theory and orbit
  • Model complex systems - Generate performance budgets and run circuit simulations (ADS, Microwave Office) that predict how systems will behave before a single component is soldered
  • Become an anomaly detective - When hardware misbehaves (and it will), you'll be the one who combines analytical rigor with hands-on experimentation to find out why
  • Collaborate in real-time and space - Work side-by-side with talented engineers and technicians to solve the hardest problems in the space enterprise

What You Need to be Successful - Senior Member of the Technical Staff
Minimum Requirements:
  • Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or related discipline
  • Five or more years related (including post graduate studies) technical experience in any of the following microwave engineering areas
    • Modeling of microwave and/or millimeter-wave circuits using ADS OR Microwave Office
    • Relevant experience with modeling or measuring performance of radar, sensor, and/or communication payload hardware and systems
    • Modeling of microwave semiconductors or plasma devices
  • Experience with manual and remote operation of network analyzers, oscilloscopes, arbitrary waveform generators and other instrumentation
  • Demonstrated creativity in problem-solving, handling ambiguity and imperfectly defined problems, an ability to rapidly grasp new concepts, and excellent written/verbal communication skills
  • Ability to engage others and influence technical decisions.
  • Willing to travel domestically approximately 10%
  • This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI US security clearance, which is issued by the US government. US citizenship is required.

In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for Engineering Specialist:
  • Seven or more years of relevant experience with communication or radar payload hardware
  • Mentoring of junior personnel
  • Technical team leadership

How You Can Stand Out
It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:
  • Current SECRET or TS/SCI clearances
  • Experience operating high-power microwave amplifiers
  • Experience with applying AI/ML to microwave design problems

We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.
(Min - Max)
$110,400.00 - $165,500.00
Pay Basis: Annual
Leadership Competencies
Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:
  • Operate Strategically
  • Lead Change
  • Engage with Impact
  • Foster Innovation
  • Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees
During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.
Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:
  • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
  • Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
  • Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
  • 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
  • Relocation assistance
  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
  • Education assistance programs
  • An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.
Equal Opportunity Commitment
The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.

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