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Microwave Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Device Characterization Engineer

Yorktown, NY · On-site

$131K - $174K/yr

Exposure to test engineer skills, including microwave test and semiconductor device test, to ensure high-quality Quantum hardware solutions. Understanding of testing principles and methodologies for ...

$75 - $110/hr

* Technical support for RF and Microwave Test and Measurement instruments and applications * Work closely with a team of Application Engineers and regional Account Managers to drive customer engagement ...

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Sales Engineer

Wayne, NJ · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr (+ commission)

Understanding of RF and Microwave components and test equipment. * Proficiency in sales. * Excellent communication and customer service skills. * Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or a ...

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Sales Engineer

Wayne, NJ · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr (+ commission)

Understanding of RF and Microwave components and test equipment. * Proficiency in sales. * Excellent communication and customer service skills. * Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or a ...

The RF Test Engineer I is responsible for characterizing, testing, and analyzing RF and microwave ... Perform RF and microwave measurements on devices, modules, and PCB assemblies up to 80 GHz.

Showing results 21-40

Microwave Test Engineer information

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How much do microwave test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for microwave test engineer in the United States is $44.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.41 and $52.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a microwave test engineer do?

A Microwave Test Engineer specializes in designing, conducting, and analyzing tests on devices and components that operate using microwave frequencies. Their work often involves testing components like antennas, transmitters, receivers, and circuits to ensure they meet performance and safety standards. They use specialized equipment such as network analyzers and spectrum analyzers to evaluate signal integrity, power levels, and frequency responses. Microwave Test Engineers play a crucial role in industries like telecommunications, aerospace, and defense, where reliable high-frequency technology is essential.

What are some common challenges faced by microwave test engineers during the development and testing of RF components?

Microwave Test Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring precise calibration of test equipment, minimizing signal interference, and troubleshooting unexpected anomalies in test results. Working with high-frequency signals requires attention to detail and a strong understanding of both the hardware and measurement techniques. Additionally, collaboration with design engineers is crucial to quickly identify root causes of failures and implement effective solutions, making teamwork and communication essential skills in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a microwave test engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Microwave Test Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, understanding of RF/microwave principles, and experience with circuit analysis, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with vector network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, and specialized test software is typically required, along with certifications like IPC or Six Sigma being advantageous. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective problem-solving are crucial soft skills for diagnosing complex issues and optimizing test processes. These skills ensure accurate testing, reliable product performance, and the ability to meet stringent industry standards.

What is the difference between Microwave Test Engineer vs RF Test Engineer?

AspectMicrowave Test EngineerRF Test Engineer
Required CertificationsTypically includes RF and microwave certifications, test and measurement trainingSimilar certifications, often overlapping with RF and microwave testing
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, manufacturing facilities, field testing of microwave/radio systemsLaboratories, manufacturing, and field testing of RF components and systems
Industry UsageTelecommunications, aerospace, defense, electronics manufacturingTelecommunications, wireless, electronics, defense industries

Both roles involve testing RF and microwave components, often sharing certifications and work environments. The main difference lies in the specific frequency ranges and systems tested, with Microwave Test Engineers focusing on higher microwave frequencies and systems, while RF Test Engineers work across a broader RF spectrum. Both positions are essential in telecommunications and electronics industries, with overlapping skills and responsibilities.

More about Microwave Test Engineer jobs

What job categories do people searching Microwave Test Engineer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Microwave Test Engineer jobs are:

Infographic showing various Microwave Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,027 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Engineer RF Microwave Subsystem I&T

Northrop Grumman

Baltimore, MD • On-site

$87K - $131K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 368 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time Description 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. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history. The AMS E&S organization at Northrop Grumman Missions Systems in Baltimore, Maryland is seeking RF Subsystem Integration and Test engineers in the following areas: Antenna hardware testing, Electromagnetics, Computational Electromagnetics, RF/Microwave test, design and analysis.

Work is performed without appreciable direction and exercising considerable latitude in determining technical objectives of assignments. Candidates would have the ability to develop technical solutions to complex problems which require the regular use of ingenuity and creativity. Responsibilities may include development of: Antenna test equipment understanding for factory phased array testing Integrate new equipment and programs in a state-of-the-art facility Software development for automating test processes and data analysis Troubleshoot RF issues during test of advanced antenna systems Support technicians with troubleshooting and training Analyze test data and identify early trends Support the team lead in developing root cause and corrective actions Collaborate with design engineering for hardware and test improvements Subsystem analysis including hardware from RF to digits Support for performance testing, requirements verification, and more.

In addition, this candidate should have demonstrated technical ability and working knowledge in one or more of the following areas: Subsystems integration and test which includes antenna and phased array. Antenna range integration, test, and system integration Active electronically scanned arrays (AESAs) Highly integrated subsystems including antenna hardware Reflectors, Reflect Arrays, Digital Beam Forming Antenna/RF Performance Analysis Antenna Measurements and Data Reduction Subsystem requirements (hardware and software) derivation, flow-down, and configuration Comfortable creating test support applications and tools using MATLAB Conducting Test Readiness Reviews and/or Design Readiness Reviews Concept development of operation for integration and test activities Executing subsystem and system level testing - both in engineering development and manufacturing environments These roles are contingent upon candidates having a current, Active government Secret clearance. These roles are contingent upon Program Award.

Candidates will be considered at a level 2 (Engineer) based upon the Basic Qualifications listed below. Basic Qualification - Engineer RF Microwave Subsystem I&T: Must hold a Secret or Top-Secret security clearance Must have a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related discipline with 2 years of experience in the areas described in the job description or Master's Degree with 0 years of experience. An additional 4 years of experience is acceptable in lieu of a degree.

Experience using MATLAB Antenna range integration, test, and subsystem integration Experience with set-up and testing of hardware in a lab/bench-top environment Have a basic understanding of Antenna/RF Performance Analysis Preferred Qualifications: TS/SCI clearance SAP clearance Working knowledge of: setting up a testing environment in Near-field (NF) ranges and Compact range (CR) testing phased arrays in a NF or CR range Knowledge with RF and antenna theory Test development experience in a nearfield antenna range Experience troubleshooting RF subsystems Understanding of Antenna/RF Performance Analysis Primary Level Salary Range: $87,600.00 - $131,400.00 The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results

Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business. The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date.

However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO

U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.


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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