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Microwave Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Koch Industries

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 ...

Ignite Human Capital

Design Engineer III

Naperville, IL · On-site

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 ...

Ignite Human Capital

Design Engineer III

Naperville, IL · On-site

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 ...

NEOTECH

Design Engineer III (24903)

Naperville, IL · On-site

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 ...

NEOTech

Design Engineer III (24903)

Naperville, IL · On-site

$100K - $115K/yr

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 ...

Cain-Forlaw Company

Be Seen First

Field Sales Engineer

Arlington Heights, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

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 ...

Antunes

Product Engineer

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

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 ...

Antunes

Systems 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 ...

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All JobsMicrowave Engineer JobsMicrowave Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

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 20, 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.
More about Microwave Engineer jobs

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

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

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

Microwave Engineer jobs near you
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.

RF/Microwave Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Northrop Grumman Corp. (JP)

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

$153.80 - $230.80/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

89th of 542 rated manufacturers

Job description

Northrop Grumman Corp. (JP) in Rolling Meadows, IL is seeking a Manager of Manufacturing Engineering, Level 2. This role involves leading a team of RF/Microwave Manufacturing Test Engineers, ensuring operational success in testing Integrated Microwave Assemblies. Candidates should have extensive experience in electronic assembly design/development, project management, and effective communication skills.

The position requires a Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering, with a minimum of 8 years experience, and a commitment to continuous improvement. The office environment is 100% onsite.

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What Northrop Grumman employees say

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

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