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Phd Communications Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PhD in Engineering and 2 years of relevant experience What You'll Bring: * Engineering experience in the design of transit oriented communication systems including: backbone fiber optic, CCTV, access ...

PhD in Engineering and 2 years of relevant experience What You'll Bring: * Engineering experience in the design of transit oriented communication systems including: backbone fiber optic, CCTV, access ...

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Phd Communications Engineering information

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$62.5K

$110.7K

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How much do phd communications engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd communications engineering in the United States is $110,693.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,500.00 and $130,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PhD in communications engineering?

A PhD in Communications Engineering is a terminal academic degree focused on advanced research in the design, analysis, and optimization of communication systems and networks. Students in this program study topics such as wireless communications, signal processing, information theory, and emerging technologies like 5G and IoT. Graduates often pursue careers in academia, research institutions, or high-level engineering roles in industry, contributing to innovations in how information is transmitted and received. The program typically involves a combination of coursework and original research culminating in a dissertation.

What are some common challenges faced by PhD graduates in communications engineering when transitioning from academia to industry roles?

PhD graduates in Communications Engineering often encounter challenges such as adapting to faster-paced project timelines, focusing on practical solutions over theoretical exploration, and collaborating within multidisciplinary teams. Unlike academic research, industry projects typically emphasize deliverables, cost-effectiveness, and teamwork. Successfully bridging the gap involves learning to communicate complex ideas to non-experts and aligning research expertise with business goals, which can lead to rewarding career growth in R&D, product development, or technical leadership roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD in communications engineering, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PhD in Communications Engineering, you need advanced expertise in signal processing, wireless communications, and networking protocols, typically supported by a doctoral degree in electrical or communications engineering. Familiarity with simulation tools (such as MATLAB or Simulink), programming languages (like Python or C++), and research methodologies is essential, along with a strong publication record. Exceptional analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective written and verbal communication skills set top candidates apart. These competencies are crucial for driving innovation, leading research projects, and contributing to advancements in communications technology.

What are popular job titles related to Phd Communications Engineering jobs?

For Phd Communications Engineering jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Phd Communications Engineering job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,693 per year, or $53.2 per hour.

Engineer III - Rail Communications

Newark, NJ • On-site

HNTB
Construction • 1 - 5K employees

$104K - $163K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Responsible for the production and modification of design calculations, technical reports, engineering plans, and specifications for assigned projects.

  • Assist in the development of project specifications, discipline-specific engineering project elements, and perform quality control reviews of deliverables.

  • Work closely with project team members and other disciplines to support project delivery and ensure coordination.


HNTB rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

What We're Looking For

At HNTB, you can create a career that is meaningful to you while building communities that matter to all of us. For more than a century, we have been delivering solutions for some of the largest, most complex infrastructure projects across the country. With our historic growth, it is an exciting time to join our team of employee-owners.
This opportunity entails being responsible for the production and modification of design calculations, technical reports, engineering plans and specifications for assigned projects. This position works closely with the project manager to perform research, development, calculations, design and delivery. Applies engineering techniques, procedures and design criteria for projects ranging in size and complexity. Leverages technical knowledge, experience and client relationships to assist in the execution and evaluation of project designs. Develops conceptual and detailed designs and calculations to support the project execution using current drawing and technical tools, programs and software. May mentor, train and review work of junior engineer staff and provide constructive feedback. As a member of the team, you will contribute to the successful project delivery for a diverse range of projects for HNTB's clients.
At HNTB, the communications engineering team is responsible for the design of systems that directly interact with the riding public and keep trains moving. Project work can include Train Control Systems (PTC, CBTC), Backbone fiber and cooper communications, CCTV, access control, public address, video information screens, wifi and cellular systems.

What You'll Do:

  • Completes assigned work within the schedule and number of hours provided.
  • Assist in the development of project specifications.
  • Responsible for development of discipline specific engineering project elements/deliverables such as reports, designs, and plans.
  • Aids in the coordination and productivity of project team members.
  • Provides technical guidance to less experienced engineering project team members.
  • Works closely with other disciplines and on multi-discipline projects.
  • Performs quality control reviews of discipline - specific engineering project elements/deliverables.
  • Assists with coordination and planning of schedules, hours, and distribution of work within discipline.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

What You'll Need:

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering and 4 years of relevant experience, or
  • Master's degree in Engineering and 3 year of relevant experience, or
  • PhD in Engineering and 2 years of relevant experience

What You'll Bring:

  • Engineering experience in the design of transit oriented communication systems including: backbone fiber optic, CCTV, access control, public address, visual information screens, cellular, wifi, networking, and/or train control systems
  • Experience with NYC Metro Area rail clients: Amtrak, NJ Transit, MTA C&D, MNR, LIRR
  • Independently progresses the majority of designs and tasks required of the discipline.
  • Experience with Microsoft Office, MicroStation, AutoCad, and/or Revit.
  • Exhibiting a thorough understanding of the application related to engineering, geometric and algebraic principles.
  • Managing time, proactively forecasting, and communicating project development needs.

What We Prefer:

  • Master's degree in Engineering
  • Engineer in Training (EIT) certification
  • Professional Engineer (PE) certification

Additional Information

Click here for benefits information: HNTB Total Rewards

Click here to learn more about Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.#AS #TransitAndRail

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Locations:

Newark, NJ, New York, NY, White Plains, NY (Westchester Hudson Valley)

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The approximate pay range for New York is $104,216.85 - $163,005.83. Please note that the pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position based on all selected locations within the state at the time of posting. Actual compensation will be dependent on factors, including but not limited to, the individual's qualifications, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities as well as physical work location within the state.

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The approximate pay range for New Jersey is $100,048.18 - $156,485.61. Please note that the pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position based on all selected locations within the state at the time of posting. Actual compensation will be dependent on factors, including but not limited to, the individual's qualifications, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities as well as physical work location within the state.

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NOTICE TO THIRD-PARTY AGENCIES:

HNTB does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or agencies. Any staffing/employment agency, person or entity that submits an unsolicited resume to this site does so with the understanding that the applicant's resume will become the property of HNTB. HNTB will have the right to hire that applicant at its discretion and without any fee owed to the submitting staffing/employment agency, person or entity. Staffing/employment agencies who have fee agreements with HNTB must submit applicants to the designated HNTB recruiter to be eligible for placement fees.


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About HNTB

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HNTB, you can create a career that is meaningful to you while building communities that matter to all of us. For more than a century, we have been delivering solutions for some of the largest, most complex infrastructure projects across the country. With our historic growth, it is an exciting time to join our team of employee-owners.

Industry

Construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1914