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Microwave Planning Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TAMPA MICROWAVE

SENIOR BUYER

Clearwater, FL · On-site

The Senior Buyer collaborates closely with planning, engineering, production, program management ... Tampa Microwave is committed to non-discrimination as applicable under federal and state laws. We ...

Prolim Global

Engineer RF Microwave Design 2

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$55/hr

Engineer RF Microwave Design 2 (Secret Clearance Required) Location : Camarillo, CA (Onsite) Pay ... P Practices and QA Services. Engineering services include Data Translation, CAD/CAM/CAE, Process ...

Apply Early

Ttmtech

Microwave Program Director

Syracuse, NY · On-site

Responsibilities include oversight of manufacturing, engineering, quality, facilities, purchasing ... Participate in required company planning sessions to develop the group's short and long-term ...

W3Global Inc.

Senior Principal, RF Engineer

Sparks, MD

$190K - $250K/yr

Senior Principal RF Engineer. Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Senior Principal RF ... Frequency planning * Spur analysis * RF/microwave filter technologies * Cascade gain/noise ...

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All JobsMicrowave Planning Engineer Jobs

Microwave Planning Engineer information

See salary details

$36K

$94.1K

$140.5K

How much do microwave planning engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for microwave planning engineer in the United States is $94,100.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Microwave Planning Engineers?

Microwave Planning Engineers are professionals responsible for designing, planning, and optimizing microwave communication links that transmit data, voice, and video signals wirelessly over long distances. They analyze signal paths, select appropriate equipment, calculate link budgets, and ensure that microwave networks meet technical and regulatory requirements. These engineers play a crucial role in telecommunications, supporting the backbone infrastructure for mobile networks, internet service providers, and broadcast systems.

What is the difference between Microwave Planning Engineer vs Radio Frequency (RF) Engineer?

AspectMicrowave Planning EngineerRadio Frequency (RF) Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering or Telecommunications; certifications like FCC or RF-specific coursesBachelor's in Electrical Engineering or Telecommunications; RF certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentTelecom companies, network planning sites, field surveysTelecom and wireless companies, lab and field testing
Industry UsageDesigning microwave links, network planning, spectrum managementRF system design, signal testing, equipment calibration

While both roles involve working with wireless communication systems, Microwave Planning Engineers focus on designing and optimizing microwave links for network connectivity, whereas RF Engineers work on the broader spectrum of radio frequency systems, including testing and calibration. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications, often overlap in work environments, and are essential in telecom infrastructure development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Microwave Planning Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Microwave Planning Engineer, you need a solid background in telecommunications engineering, radio frequency (RF) theory, and network planning, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with microwave planning tools such as Pathloss, Atoll, or Mentum, as well as knowledge of spectrum management and link budget calculations, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with teams and address complex network challenges. These skills are crucial for designing reliable, efficient microwave links that support robust telecommunication networks.

What are some common challenges faced by Microwave Planning Engineers in coordinating with field teams during network deployment?

Microwave Planning Engineers often encounter challenges in ensuring their designs are accurately implemented by field teams, particularly when dealing with difficult terrain or unexpected site constraints. Effective communication is essential to translate technical specifications into practical installation steps and to address real-time obstacles, such as line-of-sight issues or local regulations. Regular site surveys, clear documentation, and ongoing collaboration with installation crews help bridge the gap between planning and execution, ensuring network reliability and project timelines are maintained.
More about Microwave Planning Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Microwave Planning Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Microwave Planning Engineer jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Microwave Planning Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Microwave Planning Engineer jobs are:
Microwave Planning Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Microwave Planning Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,100 per year, or $45.2 per hour.
SENIOR BUYER

SENIOR BUYER

TAMPA MICROWAVE

Clearwater, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Senior Buyer

Overview

Tampa Microwave is a leading manufacturer and supplier of Manpack & Fly Away satellite terminals designed and built for the expeditionary user community to guarantee communications connectivity in the most austere environments. Tampa Microwave primarily serves Federal and Department of Defense markets.

We are seeking to fill a full-time Senior Buyer position located in our Clearwater, FL location. This position reports to the Senior Manager, Supply Chain.


Top Benefits

  • Competitive Salary
  • Yearly Incentive Bonus Program
  • Generous 401(k) program - up to 5% company contribution and 100% immediate vesting
  • PTO and 10 paid holidays per year
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Paid parental leave policy
  • Medical/dental/vision insurance for self & eligible family members
  • 9/80 Work Schedule (every other Friday off)
  • Onsite

Position Summary:

The Senior Buyer is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and procuring materials, components, and services in support of satellite terminal production programs. This role ensures supply chain continuity, mitigates risk, and maintains compliance with all regulatory, contractual, and quality requirements. The Senior Buyer collaborates closely with planning, engineering, production, program management, quality, and suppliers to meet cost, schedule, and performance objectives.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Procurement & Sourcing

  • Manage end‑to‑end procurement of materials, components, and services supporting manufacturing sustainment programs, IRAD and NPI projects.
  • Develop and execute sourcing strategies that ensure competitive pricing, cost savings, and long‑term supply stability.
  • Identify, evaluate, and approve suppliers based on technical capability, quality performance, financial health, and compliance.

Compliance & Documentation

  • Ensure all purchases comply with FAR/DFARS, ITAR, EAR, cybersecurity requirements, and company procurement policies.
  • Maintain accurate and complete procurement documentation, including purchase orders, quotes, supplier certifications, and audit‑ready records.
  • Support internal and external audits, customer reviews, and government compliance checks.

Supplier Management

  • Lead supplier negotiations to secure favorable pricing, lead times, terms, and long‑term agreements.
  • Monitor supplier performance (OTD, quality, responsiveness) and implement corrective actions when needed.
  • Develop supplier relationships that support strategic objectives and long‑range planning.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

  • Work closely with engineering on new product development, identifying qualified sources and driving early supplier involvement.
  • Support planning teams by ensuring material availability aligned with MRP requirements and program schedules.
  • Assist finance and program management with cost analysis, forecasting, and budget adherence.

Risk & Inventory Management

  • Proactively identify supply chain risks (single‑source, obsolescence, long lead items) and implement mitigation strategies.
  • Support inventory optimization through accurate reorder point calculations, safety stock analysis, and demand‑driven procurement strategies.
  • Manage escalations for material shortages or critical program impacts.



Qualifications:

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • U.S. Citizenship Required.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain US Secret Level Security Clearance if needed.
  • Fluent in the English language - written and oral
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Supply Chain, Business, Operations or related field (or equivalent experience).
  • 5–8+ years of procurement experience, preferably in aerospace, defense, or highly regulated industries.
  • Strong knowledge of FAR/DFARS, ITAR, DoD contracting, and government procurement requirements.
  • Experience with MRP/ERP systems and data driven procurement decision making.
  • Strong negotiation, communication, and supplier management skills.
  • Ability to read technical drawings, specifications, and Bills of Material.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • High-level of proficiency, with Microsoft Windows, Excel, Word, ERP/MRP system
  • Prior experience working with machine shops, contract manufacturers, electronics suppliers, complex assemblies and OEMs.


Preferred but not required qualifications: (optional)

  • CPSM, CPIM, CSCP, or equivalent Supply Chain certification.
  • Lean / Six-Sigma certification.
  • Knowledge of cost‑breakdown analysis, long‑term pricing strategies, and multi‑year production planning.


Tampa Microwave is committed to non-discrimination as applicable under federal and state laws. We are an E-Verify Employer.

If you need accommodation or assistance to apply for a position with Tampa Microwave, please call Human Resources at 727-551-4834.

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