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Rf Development Engineer Jobs in Sterling, VA (NOW HIRING)

Leonardo DRS

RF Test Engineering Manager

Frederick, MD · On-site

Lead the Test Engineering and Engineering Labs organization, including team development, hiring ... Partner with RF Design, Systems Engineering, Manufacturing, and Program Management to ensure strong ...

Nokia Federal Solutions Inc.

RF Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Support the development of RF front-end architectures, including power amplifiers, low-noise ... Develop RF schematics and provide guidance to PCB layout engineers. * Review RF PCB layouts for ...

Nokia Federal Solutions Inc.

RF Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Support the development of RF front-end architectures, including power amplifiers, low-noise ... Develop RF schematics and provide guidance to PCB layout engineers. * Review RF PCB layouts for ...

Fenix Group, Inc

RF Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Support the development of RF front-end architectures, including power amplifiers, low-noise ... Develop RF schematics and provide guidance to PCB layout engineers. * Review RF PCB layouts for ...

Helsing

Senior RF Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

As an RF Engineer for Communications and Networking, you will work in one of the most contested ... Test, validate, and integrate radio systems into newly developed and existing products, working ...

Helsing

Senior RF Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

As an RF Engineer for Communications and Networking, you will work in one of the most contested ... Test, validate, and integrate radio systems into newly developed and existing products, working ...

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All JobsRf Development Engineer JobsRf Development Engineer Jobs in Sterling, VA

Rf Development Engineer information

See Sterling, VA salary details

$36.6K

$116.5K

$181.2K

How much do rf development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for rf development engineer in Sterling, VA is $116,545.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,600.00 and $137,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an RF development engineer?

RF Development Engineers are specialized professionals who design, develop, and test radio frequency (RF) systems and components used in wireless communication devices and networks. Their work often involves creating circuits, antennas, and modules that operate at high frequencies, ensuring optimal performance and regulatory compliance. They collaborate closely with hardware engineers, software developers, and testing teams to integrate RF solutions into products like smartphones, satellite systems, and radar equipment. RF Development Engineers also troubleshoot signal issues, analyze system performance, and help improve device efficiency and connectivity.

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

To thrive as an RF Development Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, strong understanding of RF circuit design, and a relevant degree such as a B.S. or M.S. in Electrical Engineering. Familiarity with simulation tools like ADS, HFSS, or CST, as well as experience with network analyzers and spectrum analyzers, is typically required. Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with teams and troubleshoot complex issues. These skills are crucial for developing reliable RF systems that meet performance standards and project requirements.

What are some typical challenges an RF development engineer faces when working on new wireless products?

RF Development Engineers often encounter challenges such as minimizing signal interference, ensuring regulatory compliance, and optimizing circuit layout for performance and manufacturability. Collaborating closely with hardware, firmware, and testing teams is essential to quickly address issues like electromagnetic compatibility or unexpected test results. Staying up-to-date with evolving communication standards and troubleshooting complex integration problems are also common aspects of the role. These challenges make adaptability and strong problem-solving skills valuable assets in this position.

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

AspectRf Development EngineerRf Test Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Electrical Engineering, RF or CommunicationsBachelor's or higher in Electrical Engineering, RF or Communications
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and optimize RF circuits and systemsTest and validate RF products and prototypes
Industry UsageResearch and development, product designQuality assurance, testing labs, manufacturing

While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work in RF and communications industries, the Rf Development Engineer focuses on designing and developing RF components, whereas the Rf Test Engineer specializes in testing and validating these components to ensure performance and quality.

Is RF development engineering in demand?

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

What are popular job titles related to Rf Development Engineer jobs in Sterling, VA?

For Rf Development Engineer jobs in Sterling, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rf Development Engineer jobs in Sterling, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Rf Development Engineer jobs in Sterling, VA are:

What cities near Sterling, VA are hiring for Rf Development Engineer jobs?

Cities near Sterling, VA with the most Rf Development Engineer job openings:

Rf Development Engineer jobs near you

Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)

Zetier

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET)

Zetier seeks Software Development Engineers in Test (SDET) to design, build, and maintain scalable automated testing capabilities for embedded hardware, cyber platforms, and operational software systems. This role focuses on developing robust test infrastructure, improving product reliability, and enabling continuous validation across hardware and software solutions. Candidates will develop automated validation frameworks, integrate testing into CI/CD pipelines, and support verification activities spanning low-level firmware, networking systems, and mission-driven software capabilities. Work includes functional, integration, regression, and hardware-in-the-loop testing aligned with quality, operational effectiveness, and compliance objectives.

Required:

  • 5+ years experience in software development or test engineering
  • Strong programming experience in Python, C/C++, and/or Rust
  • Experience deploying automated test frameworks (e.g. pytest, Robot)
  • Experience testing embedded or Linux-based systems platforms
  • Hands-on experience integrating testing into CI/CD pipelines
  • Familiar debugging complex HW/SW system interactions
  • Comfortable writing clear technical documentation (e.g. test reports)
  • Strong communication skills across engineering and customer teams
  • Active U.S. security clearance

Desired:

  • Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) and device automation
  • Experience testing embedded systems, networking devices, or mobile
  • Experience with containerization (e.g. Docker, Kubernetes, QEMU)
  • Familiar with network/protocol validation (e.g. Wireshark, Scapy)
  • Experience with RF or wireless systems (e.g. 802.11ac, Zigbee, SDR)
  • Experience testing firmware, drivers, and low-level code/services
  • Exposure to cybersecurity, vulnerability research, or pentest teams
  • Experience with observability, telemetry, or reliability engineering


Positions available in Arlington, VA.

Zetier is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis protected by law. All employment is decided on the basis of merit, qualifications, and business need.

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