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Microwave Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Amentum

RF Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

RF and Microwave Engineering; EMP; E3; EMI/EMC; E3 Computation and RF Simulation; E3/EMI/EMC/PCI Testing; Defense Acquisition Engineering; EMI problem investigation; E3 instructions, standards ...

Pae

RF Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

RF and Microwave Engineering; EMP; E3; EMI/EMC; E3 Computation and RF Simulation; E3/EMI/EMC/PCI Testing; Defense Acquisition Engineering; EMI problem investigation; E3 instructions, standards ...

Nokia Federal Solutions Inc.

RF Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Utilize RF design and simulation tools such as Keysight ADS, AWR Microwave Office, HFSS, and/or CST ... Develop RF schematics and provide guidance to PCB layout engineers. * Review RF PCB layouts for ...

Nokia Federal Solutions Inc.

RF Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Utilize RF design and simulation tools such as Keysight ADS, AWR Microwave Office, HFSS, and/or CST ... Develop RF schematics and provide guidance to PCB layout engineers. * Review RF PCB layouts for ...

Fenix Group, Inc

RF Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Utilize RF design and simulation tools such as Keysight ADS, AWR Microwave Office, HFSS, and/or CST ... Develop RF schematics and provide guidance to PCB layout engineers. * Review RF PCB layouts for ...

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All JobsMicrowave Engineer JobsMicrowave Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Microwave Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$35.7K

$93.3K

$139.3K

How much do microwave engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for microwave engineer in Virginia is $93,292.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,900.00 and $115,500.00 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 Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Microwave Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Microwave Engineer job openings in Virginia 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 $93,292 per year, or $44.9 per hour.

Senior RF and Antennas System Engineer

Fairfax, VA • On-site

CACI International, Inc.
See more jobs at CACI International, Inc.external

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Senior RF and Antennas System Engineer
Job Category: Engineering
Time Type: Full time
Minimum Clearance Required to Start: None
Employee Type: Regular
Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 10%
Type of Travel: Local
* * *
The Opportunity:
The Opportunity:
CACI is seeking a Senior RF and Antenna Systems Engineer to support the design, development, integration, and test of advanced RF and antenna solutions for mission-critical defense applications. This role focuses on phased array antennas, reflector antenna systems, beamforming architectures, and RF subsystem integration across the full engineering lifecycle-from concept development and requirements definition through prototype development, test, and transition to fielded systems.
You will work in a collaborative environment with multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver innovative, practical solutions for complex technical challenges.
Responsibilities:
  • Lead and support the design, development, integration, and test of advanced RF, phased array, and reflector antenna systems.
  • Develop system and subsystem architectures, requirements, and trade studies for antennas, apertures, beamforming approaches, RF distribution networks, feeds, and associated hardware.
  • Perform system-level analyses including RF propagation, link budgets, range estimates, cascade analysis, interference assessments, and sensitivity evaluations.
  • Support prototype development, fabrication, and assembly of RF systems and antenna hardware.
  • Develop and execute test plans and procedures for laboratory, chamber, range, and field testing; analyze results and recommend design improvements.
  • Present technical concepts, tradeoffs, and program status to leadership, customers, and stakeholders.
  • Contribute to proposals, IRAD efforts, technical volumes, and BOE development.
  • Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and provide technical guidance to junior engineers as needed.

Qualifications:
Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field.
  • 10+ years of experience in RF systems, antenna systems, or related mission applications.
  • Experience designing, analyzing, integrating, and testing RF and antenna systems, with emphasis on phased arrays and/or reflector antennas.
  • Strong knowledge of RF propagation, link budgets, range estimates, cascade analysis, interference effects, and system sensitivity.
  • Experience developing and managing system and subsystem technical requirements.
  • Hands-on experience with RF test equipment such as network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, and power meters.
  • Familiarity with antenna performance metrics such as gain, beamwidth, sidelobes, efficiency, scan loss, and aperture illumination.
  • Experience working in multidisciplinary engineering teams.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience supporting proposals and BOE development.
  • Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.

Desired:
  • Master's degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, Electromagnetics, RF/Microwave Engineering, or a related field.
  • Experience with AESA, digital or hybrid beamforming, array calibration, and beam steering validation.
  • Experience with reflector antenna systems, including feed design, aperture illumination, alignment, and efficiency optimization.
  • Experience with tools such as Microwave Office, Keysight Genesys, MATLAB, and/or Python.
  • Understanding of spherical- and planar near-field antenna ranges and near-field to far-field transformation methods.
  • Familiarity with electromagnetic modeling, antenna simulation, and RF analysis tools.
  • Experience supporting defense, intelligence, or other government mission customers.
  • Active TS/SCI clearance.

What You Can Expect:
A culture of integrity.
At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you'll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer's missions and driven by a higher purpose - to ensure the safety of our nation.
An environment of trust.
CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You'll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.
A focus on continuous growth.
Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground - in your career and in our legacy.
Pay Range:
There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.
Since this position can be worked in more than one location, the range shown is the national average for the position.
The proposed salary range for this position is:
$98,500-$206,800
CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.

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