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Microwave Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Senior Network Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$130K - $185K/yr

Position Overview We are seeking a Senior Network Engineer (SME) to lead the design, integration ... Strong experience troubleshooting complex wired and wireless networks, including microwave, RF, or ...

Senior Network Engineer

Ashburn, VA

$106K - $145K/yr

Description About Chartis Federal Chartis Federal is a premier systems engineering and integration ... Strong experience troubleshooting complex wired and wireless networks, including microwave, RF, or ...

RF Engineer Location: Ashburn, VA Terms: Fulltime, onsite position. About Chartis Federal Chartis ... Understand link budgets, microwave path analysis, mobile coverage analysis, interference analysis ...

Radio Frequency Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

RF Engineer Location: Ashburn, VA Terms: Fulltime, onsite position. About Chartis Federal Chartis ... Understand link budgets, microwave path analysis, mobile coverage analysis, interference analysis ...

Showing results 41-60

Microwave Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$40.8K

$106.6K

$159.1K

How much do microwave engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for microwave engineer in Washington is $106,577.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,200.00 and $131,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Microwave Engineer jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Microwave Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Microwave Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Microwave Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Microwave Engineer jobs in WA? For Microwave Engineer jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Microwave Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,577 per year, or $51.2 per hour.

Space Payload RF Engineer, Lead with Security Clearance

Booz Allen Hamilton

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Booz Allen Hamilton rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

Job Number: R0239680 Space Payload RF Engineer, Lead The Opportunity: Are you ready to lead the design, development, integration, and test of mission-critical RF payloads that will define the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how complex RF, microwave, and sof tware-defined radio systems come together to enable resilient and high-performance space missions. That expertise becomes essential as you architect and guide the development of advanced RF space vehicle payloads, integrate space-qualified components across wide frequency ranges, and ensure reliable performance under the stringent constraints of the space environment. At Booz Allen, you'll apply your RF engineering experience to shape RF mission payloads designed to dynamically adapt to support custom waveforms. Our team develops mission-focused space technologies, from RF architecture and link analysis to payload integration, bus interfaces, and end-to-end system modeling. That's why we need you, an experienced RF payload leader who can drive RF subsystem architecture, guide antenna and front-end development, and collaborate closely with spacecraft subsystem engineering disciplines to build a payload that meets demanding standards and mission assurance requirements for space vehicles. On our team, you'll lead technical efforts from concept through flight-ready implementation, including RF circuit and antenna design, integration of SDR-based capabilities, and verification activities supporting environmental, functional, and performance testing. Your work will directly impact the mission by enabling adaptable RF mission applications and reliable performance across evolving scenarios. You'll also mentor junior engineers, strengthen engineering rigor efforts, and help identify innovative opportunities that accelerate the mission's technical roadmap. Take on this challenge in the rapidly evolving space sector as we advance resilient, scalable RF space payload capabilities that support mission critical objectives. Join us. The world can't wait. You Have: * 5+ years of experience with RF or microwave circuit design, including amplifiers, mixers, oscillators, filters, and antennas and met rics such as SNR and NF
* Experience designing custom RF hardware or integrating COTS RF hardware through simulation, fabrication, testing, and optimization stages of product development for Space Payloads
* Experience with advanced RF or microwave design techniques such as electromagnetic ( EM ) simulation
* Experience with RF measurement and testing tools, including spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, and signal generators
* Experience with design and RF simulation tools such as AWR Microwave Office, HFSS, or FEKO
* Knowledge of AS9100 standards, mission assurance practices, and space hardware workmanship guidelines
* Ability to troubleshoot and debug RF hardware
* Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines and work in a team environment
* Top Secret clearance
* Bachelor's degree Nice If You Have: * Experience with national security satellite systems for SIGINT or GEOINT
* Experience leading and managing small to medium-sized engineering teams
* Experience with MATLAB, Python, and GitHub for signal processing applications, sof tware, and algorithm development
* Experience with descriptive MBSE tools such as Cameo Enterprise Architecture
* Knowledge of lab automation and scripting to streamline testing processes and data acquisition
* Possession of excellent verbal and written communication skills
* TS / SCI clearance
* Bachelor's degree in Engineering preferred; Master's degree in Engineering a plus Clearance: Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information; Top Secret clearance is required. Compensation At Booz Allen, we celebrate your contributions, provide you with opportunities and choices, and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, work-life programs, and dependent care. Our recognition awards program acknowledges employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our values. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in Booz Allen's benefit programs. Individuals that do not meet the threshold are only eligible for select offerings, not inclusive of health benefits. We encourage you to learn more about our total benefits by visiting the Resource page on our Careers site and reviewing Our Employee Benefits page. Salary at Booz Allen is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $99,000.00 to $225,000.00 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of Booz Allen's total compensation package for employees. This posting will close within 90 days from the Posting Date. Identity Statement As part of the hiring process, we will ask you to complete an identity verification process that leverages advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence to ensure authenticity and protect against identity fraud. You are expected to be on camera during interviews and assessments. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud. Candidate AI Usage Policy AI is a part of our daily work at Booz Allen, and we are committed to the responsible and ethical use of AI tools. However, we want to ensure a fair candidate process based on your own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or other tools to assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is prohibited unless permission is explicitly provided. Work Model Our people-first culture prioritizes the benefits of collaboration, whether it occurs in person or virtually. To support engagement and effective communication, employees working virtually are generally expected to have their cameras on during meetings. * Remote: If this position is listed as remote, there may still be occasions when you are required to work in person at a Booz Allen or customer facility.
* Hybrid: If this position is listed as hybrid, you will be expected to work from a Booz Allen facility frequently, in alignment with leadership expectations and the needs of the role. You may also be required to work from or visit a customer facility.
* Onsite: If this position is listed as onsite, work will primarily be performed at a Booz Allen office or customer facility, where employees will collaborate directly with colleagues and customers as required by the role. Commitment to Non-Discrimination All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local, or international law.

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About Booz Allen Hamilton

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Booz Allen Hamilton is a leading provider of management and technology consulting services to the US government in defense, intelligence, and civil markets. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, the firm also serves major corporations, institutions, and not-for-profit organizations. Founded in 1914 by Edwin G. Booz, the company has a long-standing tradition of helping clients achieve success by delivering a wide range of consulting services that include strategic planning, human capital and learning, communication, systems development, and others. The company's mission is to empower people to change the world, and it has a reputation for maintaining the highest standards of integrity and-excellence.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1914