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Radio Frequency Engineer Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Chartis Federal

Radio Frequency Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

This role requires expertise in radio frequency (RF) engineering, wireless communication technologies, and IP networking, along with the ability to analyze system performance, conduct field testing ...

Chartis Federal

Radio Frequency Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

This role requires expertise in radio frequency (RF) engineering, wireless communication technologies, and IP networking, along with the ability to analyze system performance, conduct field testing ...

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Radio Frequency Engineer information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$38.3K

$121.7K

$189.2K

How much do radio frequency engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for radio frequency engineer in Silver Spring, MD is $121,655.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,800.00 and $143,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a radio frequency engineer?

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.

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 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.

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.

How much does a radio frequency engineer earn?

A radio frequency engineer's salary varies based on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually. Senior engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in telecommunications and defense sectors.

Is radio frequency engineering in demand?

Radio frequency engineering is in demand due to the ongoing expansion of wireless communication networks, including 5G and IoT technologies. RF engineers are needed to design, test, and optimize radio systems, often requiring knowledge of signal processing, spectrum management, and relevant certifications. The field offers opportunities in telecommunications, defense, and aerospace industries.
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Radio Frequency Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Radio Frequency Engineer job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,655 per year, or $58.5 per hour.

Radio Frequency Engineer

Chartis Federal

Ashburn, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Description

Job Title: RF Engineer

Location: Ashburn, VA

Terms: Fulltime, onsite position.

About Chartis Federal

Chartis Federal is a premier systems engineering and integration firm specializing in mission-critical IT and communications solutions for law enforcement, homeland security, and defense. As a trusted prime contractor with over $160 million in task order awards, we operate across 22 states and support essential government missions worldwide.


Our commitment to excellence has fueled our year-over-year growth, earning us recognition twice as a Washington Technology FAST 50 company and securing a place on the Inc. 5000 list for five consecutive years. At Chartis Federal, our mission is clear: keeping heroes safe and connected-on the battlefield, on the border, and in our backyards.


Position Overview

The RF Engineer will be responsible for the design, integration, and modernization of wireless communication systems, including point-to-point, mesh, and mobile networks. This role requires expertise in radio frequency (RF) engineering, wireless communication technologies, and IP networking, along with the ability to analyze system performance, conduct field testing, and optimize wireless networks. The ideal candidate will possess strong problem-solving skills and hands-on experience with link budgets, microwave path analysis, and power system design.


Duties and Responsibilities

  • Design, integration and modernization of wireless communications systems (point to point, mesh and mobile)
  • Understand wireless communications technologies and concepts
  • Gather customer requirements, determine requirements, develop solutions; provide preliminary designs, cost estimates; support procurement and implementation of wireless communications systems
  • Compare wireless communications systems specifications to requirements and perform system performance validation including field testing.
  • Understand link budgets, microwave path analysis, mobile coverage analysis, interference analysis using computer simulation and data analysis tools.
  • Evaluate and design power systems supporting wireless communications systems including solar power
  • Experience planning transport and routing of IP data through gateways, switches and routers, document in network diagrams
  • Deploy and support wireless communications systems in the field, ability to troubleshoot and resolve connectivity issues.

Requirements

  • Education BS in Electrical Engineering or other BS degrees relevant to job responsibilities
  • DHS Tier 2 Background Investigation (BI) or DOD Secret with current investigation required to convert to DHS Tier 2 BI
  • Minimum 2 years of relevant experience
  • Experience compiling technical recommendations, white papers, analysis reports, or executive briefings.
  • Excellent demonstratable written, inter-personal communications and management skills
  • History working with vendors and project teams


Why Join Chartis Federal?

We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, including:

  • Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
  • Retirement plans with company contributions
  • Professional development opportunities and career growth support
  • A dynamic and collaborative work environment where your contributions are valued

At Chartis Federal, we believe in fostering a culture of excellence, integrity, and innovation while supporting critical national security missions. Join us in shaping the future of government contracting and national security solutions.


Chartis is an equal opportunity employer and employs qualified individuals regardless of race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other classification proscribed under applicable law. We participate in E-Verify.

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