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Rf Design Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

LLRF FPGA Design Engineer

Batavia, IL · On-site

$111K - $146K/yr

Fermilab seeks a highly motivated LLRF System Design Engineer in the Accelerator Division RF Department's Low-Level RF Group to support operating systems in the Booster Synchrotron and new ...

Jr. ASIC Design Engineer

Batavia, IL · On-site

$70K - $93K/yr

Performing a leading role in Analog and RF ASIC design projects, while being able to contribute ... Bachelor's degree in an applicable Engineering discipline from an ABET accredited institution.

Showing results 41-60

Rf Design Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$70.3K

$126K

$164.3K

How much do rf design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for rf design engineer in Illinois is $125,970.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,600.00 and $141,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an RF design engineer?

An RF design engineer is a specialist within electrical engineering whose duties involve working with electronics and radio frequency. RF design engineers have job experience working with systems that are used to receive or transmit radio waves. Examples of this type of equipment include radios, cellular phones, circuits, and wireless communications. To have a career as an RF design engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering to start and a master’s degree for more advanced positions. Other qualifications and skills may include experience working with radio transmission equipment, as well as state-specific licensing or certification.

What are some common challenges faced by RF design engineers when working on new wireless communication projects?

RF Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing signal interference, optimizing circuit layouts for minimal loss, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. They must balance performance requirements with cost and manufacturability while collaborating closely with hardware, software, and testing teams. Troubleshooting unexpected issues during prototyping and adapting designs to evolving project needs are also frequent aspects of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an RF design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an RF Design Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, RF circuit design, and electromagnetic theory, typically supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with simulation tools like ADS, HFSS, and CAD software, as well as knowledge of industry standards and FCC regulations, is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in collaborative technical environments. These skills ensure reliable, innovative RF solutions that meet performance specifications and regulatory requirements in wireless systems.

What is the difference between Rf Design Engineer vs Rf Test Engineer?

AspectRf Design EngineerRf Test Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning and developing RF circuits and systemsTesting, validating, and troubleshooting RF products
Skills & CertificationsRF circuit design, simulation, knowledge of RF componentsTesting procedures, measurement tools, RF testing certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, R&D departmentsTesting labs, production environments
Industry UsageTelecommunications, aerospace, consumer electronicsManufacturing, quality assurance, product validation

While both roles involve RF technology, Rf Design Engineers focus on creating RF circuits and systems, whereas Rf Test Engineers specialize in testing and validating RF products to ensure performance and quality. Both roles often collaborate but serve different stages of product development.

Is RF design engineering in demand?

RF design engineering is in high demand due to the growth of wireless communication, 5G technology, and IoT devices. Professionals with skills in RF circuit design, simulation tools, and certifications are sought after in telecommunications, aerospace, and consumer electronics industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rf Design Engineer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Rf Design Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Rf Design Engineer jobs in Illinois?

For Rf Design Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Rf Design Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Rf Design Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Rf Design Engineer jobs in IL?

For Rf Design Engineer jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Rf Design Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,970 per year, or $60.6 per hour.

Staff Systems Design Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

$100K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 368 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
We are seeking capable, talented, and motivated team-contributors at our Northrop Grumman Rolling Meadows site. Our products range from advanced sensing technologies to state-of-the-art targeting and tracking systems that are deployed in Electro-Optical Infrared (EOIR) and Radio Frequency Electronic Warfare (RFEW) systems. These systems are designed, developed, built, integrated, and tested by the capable folks at our company to protect the lives of US and Allied warfighters in present and future conflicts. Enjoy a culture where your voice is valued and start contributing to our team of passionate professionals providing real-life solutions to our world's biggest challenges. We take pride in creating purposeful work and allowing our employees to grow and achieve their goals every day by Defining Possible. With our competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, we have the right opportunities to fit your life and launch your career today. If you are interested in being considered for inclusion on this team, we invite you to apply.
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems (NGMS) is seeking a Staff Systems Design Engineer to join our team.
Systems Design Engineers coordinate across disciplines to ensure the system requirements and design are properly and thoroughly defined and captured. Tasking can include working with subject matter experts to decompose requirements, supporting trade studies of technical challenges, and guiding system design decision-making. System Design Engineers use Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) methods and tools, generate and update specifications and Verification Cross Reference Matrices (VCRM) in DOORS.
This position will be full-time, on-site at our Rolling Meadows, IL location.
This position may be contingent upon Funding/Contract award, special access program and acquiring and maintaining the necessary US Government security clearance per customers' requirements prior to start.
Basic Qualifications for Staff Systems Design Engineer:
  • BS degree in Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, Physics or a STEM field with 12 years of related experience; OR MS degree in STEM field with 10 years of related experience; OR PhD in STEM field with 8 years of related experience
  • Demonstrated proficiency in analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
  • Experience working as part of an Agile team and maintaining awareness of cost and schedule constraints
  • Experience decomposing requirements for DoD-based platforms or systems
  • Experience in creating and delivering technical presentations
  • Working knowledge of DOORS and/or Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) methods and tools such as Cameo or similar tools (i.e. descriptive modeling, SysML, etc.)
  • Candidate must be a US Citizen
  • Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a minimum of a Secret Clearance with additional customer specified clearance as necessary

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Working knowledge from one or more of the following specialty areas: EOIR systems, sensors, optics, RFEW systems, antenna design, direction finding, geolocation, threat analysis
  • Hands-on experience with MATLAB/Python
  • Demonstrated proficiency managing interfaces for complex systems (e.g. authoring or updating Interface Control Documents (ICDs), Interface Design Documents (IDDs))
  • Proficiency with RF-CAD suites such as ANSYS HFSS, CST Microwave Studio, or Keysight ADS
  • Advanced knowledge of digital signal processing (DSP) techniques, Software Defined Radio (SDR) platforms, and FPGA-based RF prototyping
  • Demonstrated expertise in SysML modeling and MBSE tools (e.g., IBM Rational DOORS, Enterprise Architect, Cameo). Ability to develop and maintain system models, traceability matrices, and verification cross-reference artifacts
  • Hands-on experience applying AI/ML to RF classification, spectrum analysis, or adaptive beamforming
  • Experience supporting DoD programs during EMD and/or LRIP phases
  • Experience working collaboratively on complex projects that encompass both hardware, software, and firmware
  • Active Secret or Top Secret security clearance

Primary Level Salary Range: $169,000.00 - $253,600.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939