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Microwave Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Signal Integrity Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$164K/yr

Strong foundation in electromagnetic field theory, microwave engineering, transmission line theory, shielding concepts, and high-speed interconnect behavior. * Extensive experience performing signal ...

This role requires deep expertise in RF/microwave design, PCB materials, and system integration ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field * 8+ years of experience ...

This role requires deep expertise in RF/microwave design, PCB materials, and system integration ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field * 8+ years of experience ...

Cadence AWR Microwave Office * Optimize impedance matching, signal integrity, and EMI/EMC ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field * 8+ years of experience ...

Cadence AWR Microwave Office * Optimize impedance matching, signal integrity, and EMI/EMC ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field * 8+ years of experience ...

Be Seen First

Looking for a Sales Engineer or Applications Engineer, to take over established accounts and existing product portfolio focused on Semiconductors and RF&Microwave components. Qualifications Must have ...

Product Engineer

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$107K - $133K/yr

Purpose of This Role To lead the systems engineering discipline at Antunes by establishing strong ... Microwave or kitchen equipment is a plus. • Comfortable working in fast-paced manufacturing ...

Welcome to DAS Technology Group; we are specialized recruiters for the RF/Microwave & Defense/Space ... We are seeking a Senior RF Engineer to help create industry-leading radar and communications ...

Purpose of This Role To lead the systems engineering discipline at Antunes by establishing strong ... Microwave or kitchen equipment is a plus. · Comfortable working in fast-paced manufacturing ...

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Showing results 1-20

Microwave Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$37.1K

$97K

$144.8K

How much do microwave engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for microwave engineer in Chicago, IL is $97,013.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,800.00 and $120,100.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Microwave Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Microwave Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Microwave Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Microwave Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL 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 $97,013 per year, or $46.6 per hour.

Field Applications Engineer RF and Microwave

Arrow Electronics, Inc.

Itasca, IL • On-site

$84K - $159K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Arrow Electronics rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Position:Field Applications Engineer RF and Microwave
Job Description:

What You'll Be Doing

  • Utilize an advanced understanding of customer needs and technical leadership expertise to champion the return on engineering investment.
  • Serve as the primary subject matter expert for RF and Microwave demand creation activities, providing comprehensive pre-sales and post-sales technical support to help customers select the appropriate RF/Microwave components for their systems.
  • Employ technical knowledge to influence designs through solution selling, resources, and strategies with the goal of maximizing Richardson RFPD content in every customer design.
  • Conduct technical calibrations and research alongside sales and other Richardson RFPD departments, as well as suppliers, in support of customer designs.
  • Attend supplier training sessions, both in person and via conference calls. Channel the “voice of the customer” to internal departments and suppliers to shape future product development.
  • Identify key decision-makers among suppliers and customers. Manage supplier and customer expectations by developing and nurturing relationships, ensuring that stakeholders are kept informed about activities, plans, and progress toward initiatives.
  • Actively participate in strategic branch meetings and quarterly business reviews (QBRs). Develop and implement strategic technical plans by supplier line or customer solutions.
    Requires proficiency in sales tracking systems, SalesForce.com, Oracle, etc.
  • This job profile requires assignment and participation in a sales compensation plan. A portion of OTE will be variable and tied to specific sales-related goals set forth by Richardson RFPD (80/20 spilt). 


What We're Looking For

  • Typically requires a 4-year degree and a minimum of 5 years of related experience in RF and Microwave design or RF and Microwave Field Applications Engineering.
  • Experience as an AE/FAE in the RF and Microwave semiconductor field a big plus
  • Exceptional communication, relationship building, and problem-solving skills with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into business solutions.
  • Travel up to 30% of time required.  

Work Arrangement

Fully Remote: Must be able to travel to an Arrow office location as requested by Arrow leadership.

What's In It For You

At Arrow, we recognize that financial rewards and great benefits are important aspects of an ideal job. That’s why we offer competitive financial compensation, including various compensation plans and a solid benefits package. 

  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance 
  • 401k, With Matching Contributions 
  • Short-Term/Long-Term Disability Insurance 
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)/Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) Options 
  • Paid Time Off (including sick, holiday, vacation, etc.) 
  • Tuition Reimbursement 
  • Growth Opportunities 
  • And more! 
Annual Hiring Range/Hourly Rate:
$84,300.00 - $159,999.96

Actual compensation offer to candidate may vary from posted hiring range based upon geographic location, work experience, education, and/or skill level. The pay ratio between base pay and target incentive (if applicable) will be finalized at offer. 


Location:US-IL-Illinois (Remote Employees)


 

Remote work employees may be required to be present at the closest designated Arrow office for work-related purposes, at the Company’s request and sole discretion.
Time Type:Full time
Job Category:Sales EEO Statement:

Arrow is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status. (Arrow EEO/AAP policy)


All Arrow job postings are for existing job vacancies. We anticipate this requisition will be open for a minimum of five days, though it may be open for a longer period of time. We encourage your prompt application.

In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.


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About Arrow Electronics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Arrow Electronics is a global provider of products, services and solutions to industrial and commercial users of electronic components and enterprise computing solutions. Arrow Electronics guides innovation forward for over 220,000 leading technology manufactures and service providers. With 2021 sales of $34.48 billion, Arrow develops technology solutions that improve business and daily life. The company maintains 228 locations worldwide with over 90 locations served. A Fortune 104 company with 20,700 employees worldwide, Arrow brings technology solutions to a breadth of markets, including telecommunications, information systems, transportation, medical, industrial and consumer electronics. Arrow provides specialized services and expertise across the entire product lifecycle. Arrow does this by connecting customers to the right technology at the right place, right time and right price. Arrow provides extraordinary value to customers and suppliers - the best technology companies in the world - and connects them through the company's industry-leading services.

Industry

Electrical equipment, appliance, and component manufacturing and software development

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Centennial, CO, US