ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Phd Communications Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HRB

Laser Communications Engineer, Senior

Washington, DC · On-site

$165K - $180K/yr

PhD in Physics, Electrical, Optical Engineering or related technical field Experience Required ... The primary objective of the SSDD is to develop command, control, communications, computers, and ...

VTG

Space Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$100K - $195K/yr

... engineering experience. We are hiring a Communications Systems Engineer to provide systems ... PhD or JD and four (4) years or more experience * Experience with USG program management and ...

Leidos

RF Communications Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Basic Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or ... Candidates with PhD degrees are encouraged to apply, with degree level substitution for direct ...

Leidos

RF Communications Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

Basic Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or ... Candidates with PhD degrees are encouraged to apply, with degree level substitution for direct ...

Leidos

RF Communications Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Basic Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or ... Candidates with PhD degrees are encouraged to apply, with degree level substitution for direct ...

Weekday AI

Electrical Engineering Expert (PhD)

$100 - $120/hr

PhD in Electrical Engineering from a top US, UK, Canadian, or European university Work experience ... Strong attention to detail, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and proficiency in ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsTechnology JobsTelecommunications JobsTelecommunications Engineer JobsPhd Communications Engineering Jobs

Phd Communications Engineering information

See salary details

$62.5K

$110.7K

$137.5K

How much do phd communications engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 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.

Laser Communications Engineer, Senior

Washington, DC • On-site

HRB
See more jobs at HRBexternal

$165K - $180K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Must be a U.S. Citizen

Clearance Required: TopSecret

Education Required:

PhD in Physics, Electrical, Optical Engineering or related technical field

Experience Required:
  • 12 or more years of increasing responsibility in professional engineering/scientific disciplines, including systems engineering, research and development, and program/portfolio management.
  • Demonstrable knowledge of current state-of-the-art systems, electro-optical systems, optical propagation, and/or free space optical laser communications systems
  • Technical expertise in laser subsystems components and controls including laser transmitters, fiber optics, lenses, detectors, signal processing, and optical link budgets..
  • Demonstrable knowledge of laser atmospheric propagation theory and analysis.
  • Broad modeling and coding experience in multiple environments (e.g. MATLAB, Python, Zemax, LabView, etc.)
  • Development of test methodologies and execution, optical test instrumentation design and implementation, data collection and technical assessment, report writing and white paper/executive level documentation.
Position Description:
  • Support Naval Research Laboratory Space Systems Development Division (SSDD). The primary objective of the SSDD is to develop command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR) hardware and software solutions to space, airborne, and ground applications.
  • Provide technical expertise for a rapidly expanding portfolio of laser communications systems and technologies that address significant needs in defense requirements for advanced optical communications across multiple domains.
  • Facilitate research and development of advanced laser technologies and their application to deployable systems for innovative and advanced solutions for defense technology gaps. This entails exploration, development and evaluation of novel designs, methods, and techniques in the application of lasers to communication, ranging, and time-transfer systems.
Must be a U.S. Citizen

Clearance Required: TopSecret

Education Required:

PhD in Physics, Electrical, Optical Engineering or related technical field

Experience Required:
  • 12 or more years of increasing responsibility in professional engineering/scientific disciplines, including systems engineering, research and development, and program/portfolio management.
  • Demonstrable knowledge of current state-of-the-art systems, electro-optical systems, optical propagation, and/or free space optical laser communications systems
  • Technical expertise in laser subsystems components and controls including laser transmitters, fiber optics, lenses, detectors, signal processing, and optical link budgets..
  • Demonstrable knowledge of laser atmospheric propagation theory and analysis.
  • Broad modeling and coding experience in multiple environments (e.g. MATLAB, Python, Zemax, LabView, etc.)
  • Development of test methodologies and execution, optical test instrumentation design and implementation, data collection and technical assessment, report writing and white paper/executive level documentation.
Position Description:
  • Support Naval Research Laboratory Space Systems Development Division (SSDD). The primary objective of the SSDD is to develop command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR) hardware and software solutions to space, airborne, and ground applications.
  • Provide technical expertise for a rapidly expanding portfolio of laser communications systems and technologies that address significant needs in defense requirements for advanced optical communications across multiple domains.
  • Facilitate research and development of advanced laser technologies and their application to deployable systems for innovative and advanced solutions for defense technology gaps. This entails exploration, development and evaluation of novel designs, methods, and techniques in the application of lasers to communication, ranging, and time-transfer systems.
Salary:

The projected salary range for this position is $165,000 to $180,000; however, this is not a guarantee of salary. Salary will be set based on experience and contractual requirements.

Benefits:
  • Medical, Dental, & Vision Plan, short- and long-term disability, accidental death & dismemberment, 401K retirement & matching, Tuition assistance program, direct deposit, leave package and 11 paid federal holidays.
#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply