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Radio Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Software Defined Radio experience (ADI transceivers, Ettus, EPIQ,...) and FPGAs • Demonstrated ... Engineering required • 8+ years of relevant work experience in RF circuits and systems • Must ...

... Low Level Radio Frequency (LLRF) systems - that keep Fermilab's scientific experiments running ... What your day-to-day as an RF Controls Engineer at Fermilab will look like: • Research, design ...

An RF hardware engineer responsible for owning driving improvements in the analog/RF design portions of our radio products. Core responsibilities include: Drafting and reviewing RF specifications ...

Troubleshoot and resolve hardware, software, mobile device, and radio programming issues. * Coordinate resources and suppliers to complete projects, service requests, and refresh activities.

RF Hardware Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

An RF hardware engineer responsible for owning driving improvements in the analog/RF design portions of our radio products. Core responsibilities include: • Drafting and reviewing RF specifications ...

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Radio Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$8

$30

$68

How much do radio engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for radio engineer in Illinois is $30.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.48 and $27.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a radio engineer do?

As a radio engineer, you install, maintain, and repair radio broadcast and transmission equipment. You may test existing RF systems, check each electrical circuit, repair or replace radio antennas, and otherwise ensure the radio system receives the correct amount of power. Fulfilling the duties and responsibilities of this job often involves laying and fixing cables, designing system layouts, and ensuring that active broadcasts comply with all federal, state, and local regulations. Radio engineers are also known as broadcast engineers and broadcast technicians, so you may need to search under these titles to find all relevant jobs in your area.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a radio engineer?

To thrive as a Radio Engineer, you need a strong background in electronics, radio frequency (RF) engineering, and telecommunications, usually supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with RF testing equipment, spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, and certifications such as FCC licensing are typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication help Radio Engineers troubleshoot issues and collaborate with technical teams. These skills are crucial for ensuring reliable radio communications, regulatory compliance, and the successful deployment and maintenance of radio systems.

What are some common challenges radio engineers face when working on-site at broadcasting locations?

Radio Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting signal interference, ensuring equipment reliability in diverse weather conditions, and coordinating with on-site technical and production teams. They may need to quickly resolve unexpected technical issues to minimize broadcast downtime, which requires adaptability and strong problem-solving skills. Regular collaboration with other engineers and station staff is essential, and the role may involve irregular hours or travel, especially during live events or emergencies.

What is the difference between Radio Engineer vs Broadcast Engineer?

AspectRadio EngineerBroadcast Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electronics, communications, or related field; certifications like FCC licenses may be beneficialSimilar credentials; often holds degrees in engineering or communications, with certifications in broadcast technology
Work EnvironmentWorks on radio transmission systems, antennas, and transmitters, often outdoors or in technical facilitiesWorks on broadcast equipment, studio systems, and transmission infrastructure, usually in studio or control room settings
Industry UsagePrimarily in radio broadcasting, telecommunications, and wireless communication sectorsPrimarily in television and radio broadcasting industries

Radio Engineers and Broadcast Engineers share similar technical skills and certifications but differ mainly in their work environments and industry focus. Radio Engineers focus on radio transmission systems, while Broadcast Engineers work on studio and broadcast infrastructure. Both roles are essential in the broadcasting and communications industries.

Is radio engineering a good career?

Radio engineering is a specialized field involving the design, installation, and maintenance of radio communication systems, often requiring technical skills and certifications. It offers opportunities in telecommunications, broadcasting, and defense industries, with job stability depending on technological advancements and industry demand.

What job categories do people searching Radio Engineer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Radio Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Radio Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,228 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

Network Radio Professional

Elgin, IL • On-site

Illinois School District U-46
1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Support Services - School Level/Non-Union Position
Date Posted:
7/14/2026
Location:
Communication & Community Relation
Date Available:
08/24/2026
Closing Date:
06/01/2027
Position / Title: Network Radio Professional
Bargaining Unit: NON-UNION
Department/Location: Communications & Community Relations
Work Days: 176
Reports To: Senior Communications Specialist
JD Revision Date: 07/01/2025
Supervises: N/A
Function / Position Summary
Each Network Radio Professional develops original and student-produced content for the U-46 radio station, WEPS 88.9 FM, on behalf of one of the five school networks. Network Radio Professionals create radio content in accordance with the programming guidelines set forth by the Senior Communications Specialist supervising the management of the station. This individual will ensure that content is developed in collaboration with students and positively features the district, its students, its employees, and/or its educational programming. Radio Professionals are highly encouraged to engage students in radio production through the establishment of radio broadcasting clubs and the recruitment of student members throughout the network.
Job Duties / Responsibilities
  • Collaborate with students of varying ages and abilities to create radio programming that can be broadcast to highlight individuals and educational programming in School District U-46.
  • Develop an annual production schedule resulting in one hour of produced content per week from the network.
  • Submit radio programs for broadcast at least 48 hours prior to air time.
  • Attend regular radio broadcast planning meetings as scheduled by the station supervisor.
  • Ensure programming abides by all FCC and music license guidelines.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Education
  • Radio, communications, journalism or audio/visual technology experience preferred.
  • Knowledge of FCC guidelines and ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC music license guidelines is a plus.

Experience / Knowledge
  • A solid understanding of the impact of broadcast communication on the district and its publics.
  • Ability to engage students in content production and learning.
  • Knowledge of (or a strong desire and willingness to learn) how to teach students audio editing software and broadcast skills in order to develop radio programming.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with students of varying ages and abilities.
  • Strong attention to detail and active listening skills.
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills with an ability to work in a high-volume environment.
  • Ability to meet established deadlines.
  • Ability to work independently with limited supervision, as well as in a team setting.
  • Ability to use traditional, current, advanced, and emerging communication and technology tools.
  • Knowledge and understanding of public education goals and objectives.

Physical Demands
  • Ability to use standard radio and office equipment and lift up to 30 lbs. with proper technique.
  • Ability to work in a busy environment with exposure to noise.
  • Ability to travel off-site to attend meetings, interviews, or events.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, with a large group of students.

Terms of Employment
  • 184 work day stipend position.
  • One-time stipend processed in June 2027. If desired, the stipend can be split between two individuals.
  • Primary work completed outside of official school hours with some evening/weekend work likely.
  • Frequent offsite work; must be willing to travel.