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Remote Principal Rf Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

DISCO

Principal Software Engineer - U.S. Remote

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$139K - $186K/yr

Your Impact The Principal Software Engineer shapes and evolves our architecture using Distributed Domain Driven Design practices, ultimately ensuring the robustness and scalability of our systems.

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All JobsRemote Principal Rf Engineer JobsRemote Principal Rf Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Remote Principal Rf Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$76.2K

$151.7K

$218.9K

How much do remote principal rf engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote principal rf engineer in Chicago, IL is $151,658.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $122,100.00 and $178,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Remote Principal RF Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Remote Principal RF Engineer, you need deep expertise in RF design, electromagnetic theory, and signal processing, usually backed by a degree in electrical engineering and substantial industry experience. Familiarity with RF simulation tools (like ADS, HFSS, or CST), network analyzers, and relevant certifications (such as FCC or IEEE) is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and project leadership are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are essential for delivering high-performance RF solutions, ensuring regulatory compliance, and effectively leading cross-functional engineering teams.

How does a Remote Principal RF Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams while working offsite?

As a Remote Principal RF Engineer, collaboration with cross-functional teams—such as hardware designers, software engineers, and project managers—is usually facilitated through regular virtual meetings, collaborative design platforms, and shared documentation tools. Despite being offsite, you’ll often participate in technical reviews, offer guidance on RF design challenges, and coordinate integration efforts to ensure project milestones are met. Successfully managing clear communication and documentation is essential in this remote environment to keep all team members aligned. Many organizations also use project management software and version control systems to streamline collaboration and ensure transparency across different time zones.

What is a Remote Principal RF Engineer?

A Remote Principal RF Engineer is a senior-level professional who specializes in designing, developing, and optimizing radio frequency (RF) systems and components, such as antennas, transmitters, and receivers, while working remotely. They often lead teams, oversee complex projects, and provide technical guidance to ensure high performance and compliance with industry standards. Their expertise is critical in industries like telecommunications, aerospace, and defense, where reliable wireless communication is essential.

What is the difference between Remote Principal Rf Engineer vs Remote Senior Rf Engineer?

AspectRemote Principal Rf EngineerRemote Senior Rf Engineer
CredentialsAdvanced degrees, certifications in RF engineeringRelevant experience, certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles, strategic planning, cross-team collaborationHands-on design, testing, troubleshooting
Industry UsageUsed in high-level design and architecture roles in telecom and wireless industriesCommon in development and implementation teams

The Remote Principal Rf Engineer typically holds a leadership position with strategic responsibilities, while the Remote Senior Rf Engineer focuses more on technical expertise and hands-on tasks. Both roles require RF engineering credentials, but the principal level emphasizes project oversight and industry influence.

What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Rf Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Principal Rf Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Remote Principal Rf Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Remote Principal Rf Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Remote Principal Rf Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Principal Rf Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Remote Principal Rf Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Remote Principal Rf Engineer job openings:
Remote Principal Rf Engineer jobs near you
Principal Systems Engineer, RF Communications & Sensing

Principal Systems Engineer, RF Communications & Sensing

Parallel Wireless

Mundelein, IL • Remote

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Parallel Wireless is reimagining mobile networks with innovative, energy-efficient Open RAN solutions. Join us as we lead the future of telecommunications, driving innovation through green and sustainable networks. Learn more about our mission, vision and values.  

Position Summary
The Principal Systems Engineer (Technical SME) provides senior technical leadership for U.S. Department of War and Federal wireless communications, networking, and sensing solutions. This role requires deep expertise in DoW network/communications CONOPS and mission needs, software-defined RF systems, AI/ML-enabled wireless networks, adaptive networking, and integrated communications and sensing.
Key Responsibilities
  • Serve as principal technical authority for wireless communications, networking, and integrated communications and sensing architectures.
  • Primary technical support for Federal/DoW customer engagements
  • Lead customer RFP technical responses and capability white papers
  • Shape strategy for O-RAN–based 5G/6G, distributed sensing, and cognitive EMSO operations.
  • Architect software-defined RF systems integrating communications, networking, and sensing.
  • Design AI-driven (O-RAN RIC and applications) resilient wireless networks with adaptive resource management.
  • Lead solutioning, architecture, and design of multi-waveform radios, waveforms, and SDN-enabled architectures.
  • Conduct modeling, simulation, and performance assessments.
  • Advise DoW and Federal leaders on communications, networking, and sensing architectures.
  • Lead technical exchanges, CONOPS development, and capability road mapping.
  • Provide technical leadership for captures, proposals, and complex programs as Chief Engineer or Technical Lead.
Required Qualifications
  • Master’s or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
  • 10+ years of experience in wireless (tactical and cellular) dual-use communications, networking, sensing, or cognitive systems.
  • System-level expertise in software-defined radio (SDR), software-defined networking (SDN/SD-WAN), and virtualized networks.
  • Expertise in RF communications, mesh networking, and integrated communications/sensing.
  • Experience with 5G/6G, O-RAN, tactical radios, and multi-domain MANET/mesh networks.
  • Knowledge of RF sensing, EW awareness, and spectrum operations.
  • Experience with DoW, NATO, and joint interoperability architectures (e.g., CMOSS, 3U-VPX).
  • Knowledge of DoW and Federal communications requirements and network modernization efforts.
  • US citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain US security clearance.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance, as required for the role.
 
Preferred Qualifications
  • Currently holding an active U.S. Secret clearance or Top Secret clearance.
  • Patents, Publications and standards contributions
  • Prior experience as Chief Engineer, Technical Director, or Technical Fellow.
Equal Employment Opportunity & Accommodations
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and consider applicants without regard to legally protected characteristics. If you need a reasonable accommodation to apply or interview, please let us know.

Parallel Wireless is expanding the ecosystem for Open RAN with the GreenRAN™ energy-efficient Hardware-Agnostic technology. Deployed worldwide, our comprehensive 2G/3G/4G/5G Macro RAN solutions enhance network security while reducing operating expenses. As pioneers of Open RAN, we prioritize innovation, flexibility, and sustainability to help build a more connected, and green networks. Headquartered in the USA with global R&D centers, we are proud to serve over 60 customers worldwide and have been recognized with over 100 industry awards. Our mission is to accelerate GSMA’s Mobile Net Zero initiative by reducing TCO and driving innovation across the telecom ecosystem.Learn more at www.parallelwireless.com.
Parallel Wireless embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building inclusive and diverse teams representing all backgrounds, with a wide range of perspectives, and empowering industry-leading skills. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.Parallel Wireless does not accept unsolicited resumes or applications from agencies or individuals. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, Parallel Wireless employees, or any other company location. Parallel Wireless is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes/applications.