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Radio Frequency Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

T-Mobile

Sr Engineers, Radio Frequency

Livonia, MI · On-site

Senior Engineers, Radio Frequency located in Livonia, MI will provide radio frequency (RF) and/or wireless transmission equipment requirement support; responsible for end-to-end design, deployment ...

SRI International

Sr Research Engineer-RF

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$130K - $194K/yr

... high frequency (HF) to W-band (100 GHz) with minimal oversight * Development of marketing and ... Collaboration with engineers across different domains, including: mechanical, optical, digital

SRI International

Sr Research Engineer-RF

Ann Arbor, MI

$130K - $194K/yr

... high frequency (HF) to W-band (100 GHz) with minimal oversight * Development of marketing and ... Collaboration with engineers across different domains, including: mechanical, optical, digital

SRI International

Sr Research Engineer-RF

Ann Arbor, MI

$130K - $194K/yr

... high frequency (HF) to W-band (100 GHz) with minimal oversight * Development of marketing and ... Collaboration with engineers across different domains, including: mechanical, optical, digital

KBR, Inc.

RF Sensing Systems Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

Title: RF Sensing Systems Engineer RF Sensing Systems Engineer KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

KBR

RF Sensing Systems Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI

Title: RF Sensing Systems Engineer RF Sensing Systems Engineer KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

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All JobsRadio Frequency Engineer JobsRadio Frequency Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Radio Frequency Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$32.2K

$102.6K

$159.5K

How much do radio frequency engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for radio frequency engineer in Michigan is $102,569.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $121,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Radio Frequency Engineers?

Radio Frequency Engineers are specialized professionals who design, implement, and maintain systems that use radio waves for communication. They work on technologies such as wireless networks, cellular phones, satellite communications, and radar. Their responsibilities include optimizing signal strength, preventing interference, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. These engineers play a crucial role in enabling reliable wireless connectivity in various industries.

How much does an RF engineer earn?

The average salary for a radio frequency (RF) engineer varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start around $60,000, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $130,000. RF engineers often work with tools like spectrum analyzers and require knowledge of wireless communication standards.

What is the difference between Radio Frequency Engineer vs Wireless Communications Engineer?

AspectRadio Frequency EngineerWireless Communications Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, RF certificationsBachelor's in Electrical/Communications Engineering, wireless certifications
Work EnvironmentDesigning RF systems, testing, fieldworkDeveloping wireless networks, system integration
Industry UsageTelecom, aerospace, defenseTelecom, mobile networks, IoT

Both roles involve working with wireless signals and require similar technical skills and certifications. However, Radio Frequency Engineers focus more on RF system design and testing, while Wireless Communications Engineers concentrate on developing and optimizing wireless network systems. The choice depends on your specific interests within wireless technology.

What Does a Radio Frequency Engineer Do?

As a radio frequency engineer (RF engineer), you install and maintain devices that transmit and receive radio waves. You may select which type of device to install in a given area, help design wireless networks, and provide technical support for existing systems. Radio frequency engineering is a specialized focus of electrical engineering and uses many of the same techniques and principles, so some engineers switch between the two fields as necessary for each job. Other details of this position depend on the employer. For example, installing radio devices for the military often involves getting a security clearance and maintaining heavily-secured transmission systems, while urban jobs may require finding ways to filter out excess noise and problems in each frequency.

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

To thrive as a Radio Frequency Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, RF circuit design, and signal processing, typically supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with tools like vector network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, and simulation software such as CST or HFSS is crucial, along with relevant certifications like FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help in troubleshooting complex issues and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are vital for designing, optimizing, and maintaining reliable RF systems in dynamic environments.

What do radio frequency engineers do?

Radio frequency engineers design, analyze, and optimize wireless communication systems that use radio waves, such as cellular networks, satellite communications, and radar. They work with tools like spectrum analyzers and simulation software, often requiring knowledge of electromagnetic theory and certifications like FCC licensing. Their tasks include signal propagation analysis, system testing, and ensuring compliance with industry standards.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

High-level engineering roles such as senior aerospace engineers, petroleum engineers, and certain specialized software engineers can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes certifications or advanced degrees.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior radio frequency engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills in RF design and testing can earn $200,000 or more annually. High salaries are often found in industries like telecommunications, aerospace, and defense, especially for those working in managerial or lead technical roles. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise.

What are some typical challenges Radio Frequency Engineers face when working on large-scale wireless network deployments?

Radio Frequency Engineers often encounter challenges such as mitigating interference from other wireless devices, ensuring signal coverage in complex environments (like dense urban areas or inside buildings), and adhering to regulatory constraints on spectrum usage. Collaborating closely with site engineers, network planners, and field technicians is essential to address these issues efficiently. Staying current with evolving technologies and optimizing existing infrastructure for capacity and reliability are also ongoing parts of the role.
More about Radio Frequency Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Radio Frequency Engineer jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Radio Frequency Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Radio Frequency Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Radio Frequency Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Radio Frequency Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Radio Frequency Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Radio Frequency Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Radio Frequency Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Radio Frequency Engineer jobs in MI? For Radio Frequency Engineer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Radio Frequency Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Radio Frequency Engineer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,569 per year, or $49.3 per hour.

Senior Radio Frequency Engineer

Niowave Inc.

Lansing, MI

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Senior Radio Frequency Engineer
Who we are…
We are a team of scientists, engineers, technicians, and innovators dedicated to changing the world by developing medical isotopes to treat and eradicate cancer.
We believe in building an environment where collaboration, curiosity, and camaraderie thrive.
We also enjoy darts, cornhole, ping-pong, chili cook-offs, and other fun events that make our company a community where we make a life, not just a living.
Who you are…
You love details and precision. You find enjoyment in solving puzzles, designing and mapping systems, and building efficient circuitry. Words that describe you are focused, curious, and collaborative.
What you can expect to work on…
This position plays a pivotal role in designing, building, testing, and managing support and diagnostic systems for superconducting particle accelerators.
  • Design, build, and assess the performance of high-power RF systems including high-power tetrodes and solid-state amplifiers, along with peripheral components like high-power RF circulators.
  • Participate or interface with other engineers in the design and development of electrical circuits and controls in support of the RF systems.
  • Perform troubleshooting and maintenance activities on existing RF systems and high voltage power supplies.
  • Be part of the team designing the concept, architecture, and components of future systems.
  • Train operations staff in the operation of high-power RF for particle accelerators and peripheral equipment/technology.
  • Conduct optimization work on existing systems, perform measurements and validation tests
  • Confirm system capabilities by designing testing methods.
What you need to succeed…
  • Bachelor degree in the fields of electrical engineering, microwave engineering, power electronics, etc.
  • 5+ years of RF-related experience; experience designing, building and testing hardware.
  • Broad understanding of RF technology.
  • Regularly engages in mentoring multiple team members in all aspects of RF Engineering.
  • Expert level analytical and problem-solving skills; Organizational and project management skills for self and teams.
  • Embrace and model the Niowave Values of Teamwork, Courage, Integrity, and Upright Zeal.
  • Understand how to integrate into a new team/organization – appreciate the history of current state, know how and when to make suggestions, as well as using just the right pace to reach the improved future state.
  • Understand their own communication and learning styles, can assess others’ styles, and is able to find the right path to connect the two.
Great to have…
  • Master’s, or Doctorate degree in the fields of electrical engineering, microwave engineering, power electronics, etc.
  • 8+ years of RF-related experience.
  • Experience leading teams to complete large projects.
  • 2+ years experience of direct supervisory experience of five or more people.
Work Environment…
  • Full-time position.
  • The company’s standard operating hours are Monday thru Friday 6a – 6p with production related activities requiring 24/7/365 shifts.
  • This position will have regular working hours during M – F with an expectation of adjusting to meet technical objectives and to meet with staff working outside of the standards operating hours as needed.
  • Niowave has multiple locations within the Lansing area. Travel between locations is expected in the role.
Please provide a cover letter specifically describing the nature of your technical expertise.

Apply