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Rf Development Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SRC, Inc

RF/EW R&D Engineer

Fairborn, OH · On-site

SRC, Inc. is currently seeking a Mid-Level Radio Frequency (RF) / Electronic Warfare (EW) Research & Development Engineer to support the design, integration, testing, sustainment, and advancement of ...

Intel

Module Development Engineer - RF Test

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

As an RF Module Development Engineer, you will be at the forefront of driving innovation and quality in analog and RF test. You will play a pivotal role in the design and manufacturability of Intel ...

INTEL

Module Development Engineer - RF Test

Phoenix, AZ

$127K - $179K/yr

As an RF Module Development Engineer, you will be at the forefront of driving innovation and quality in analog and RF test. You will play a pivotal role in the design and manufacturability of Intel ...

The Pennsylvania State University

POSITION SPECIFICS We are seeking an Applied Electromagnetic/RF Research and Development Engineer to join our Spectrum and Signature Solutions team of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn ...

Cohu

RF Product Development Engineer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

A Cohu RF Product Development Engineer requires experience in RF and signal integrity to design, optimize, characterize and support hardware for semiconductor test interfaces. The primary ...

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Rf Development Engineer information

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$37K

$117.7K

$183K

How much do rf development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for rf development engineer in the United States is $117,680.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,500.00 and $139,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

Is RF engineering in demand?

RF engineering is in high demand due to the growth of wireless communication, 5G networks, and IoT devices. RF development engineers are needed to design, test, and optimize radio frequency systems, often requiring knowledge of signal processing and tools like MATLAB or RF simulation software.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

An RF Development Engineer typically does not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive or specialized roles within the tech or telecommunications industries. Senior engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in RF design, and leadership responsibilities may approach high six-figure incomes, but reaching $500,000 usually involves additional bonuses, stock options, or executive positions.

What are RF Development Engineers?

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.

How much does an RF engineer earn?

RF Development Engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in high-demand sectors like telecommunications and aerospace.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior RF Development Engineers with extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and often specialized certifications can earn $300,000 or more annually. These roles typically involve designing and testing high-frequency communication systems and may require working in high-demand industries such as telecommunications or aerospace. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise.
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Rf Development Engineer jobs near you
RF/EW R&D Engineer

RF/EW R&D Engineer

SRC, Inc

Fairborn, OH • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 hours ago

Job description

SRC, Inc. is currently seeking a Mid-Level Radio Frequency (RF) / Electronic Warfare (EW) Research & Development Engineer to support the design, integration, testing, sustainment, and advancement of next-generation RF and EW simulation capabilities. This role is heavily focused on research and development activities within a dynamic laboratory environment supporting prototype development, system integration, experimental testing, Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) operations, and user demonstrations.
 
The ideal candidate is a hands-on engineer with strong RF fundamentals, laboratory integration experience, and the ability to rapidly troubleshoot and adapt within fast-paced R&D efforts. This position requires close collaboration with multidisciplinary engineering teams to develop, evaluate, and improve advanced electromagnetic environment simulation systems and supporting RF infrastructure.
 
What You'll Do 
 
1. Research & Development Activities 
RF / EW System Development 
  • Support research and development of advanced RF, radar, and EW simulation capabilities
  • Assist with integration, configuration, and evaluation of prototype hardware, RF subsystems, and experimental technologies
  • Support development and execution of engineering assessment plans for new capabilities, hardware modifications, and software updates
  • Participate in system characterization, performance analysis, and technical investigations to support engineering decisions
Prototype Integration & Experimental Testing 
  • Configure and support experimental laboratory test environments for engineering development efforts
  • Integrate Systems Under Test (SUT) with RF simulators, HITL systems, and supporting laboratory infrastructure
  • Support iterative hardware and software testing, rapid troubleshooting, and implementation of engineering changes during development cycles
  • Collect, document, and analyze test data to support engineering evaluations and technical reporting
Technology Evaluation & Modernization 
  • Evaluate emerging RF and EW technologies to support future laboratory and simulation capabilities
  • Assist with development of upgrade roadmaps and modernization recommendations for aging laboratory systems and infrastructure
  • Support proof-of-concept demonstrations and advanced technology integration activities  
2. Laboratory Operations & HITL Support 
HITL & Lab Operations 
  • Configure and maintain HITL laboratory environments supporting R&D and engineering integration efforts
  • Support daily laboratory operations including RF routing, equipment configuration, system verification, and troubleshooting
  • Ensure laboratory systems are operational and available to support engineering development schedules and user demonstrations
Demonstration Support 
  • Support Lead Engineers during internal and external technical demonstrations and evaluation events
  • Assist with demonstration setup, system checkout, issue resolution, and operational support during live events 
3. Maintenance, Troubleshooting & Sustainment 
RF System Troubleshooting 
  • Troubleshoot complex RF and electronic systems to the subsystem and component level
  • Utilize schematics, block diagrams, and technical documentation to isolate and resolve hardware and integration issues
  • Repair or replace faulty cables, RF components, circuit cards, and supporting subsystems
Preventive Maintenance & Calibration 
  • Perform preventive maintenance and sustainment activities on RF simulators, EW systems, and laboratory infrastructure
  • Support calibration and verification activities for RF test equipment including: 
  • Vector Network Analyzers (VNA) 
  • Spectrum Analyzers 
  • Signal Generators 
  • Oscilloscopes 
  • Power Meters  
4. Process Improvement & Technical Documentation 
QA/QC & Engineering Documentation 
  • Develop and maintain laboratory procedures, test configurations, QA/QC checklists, and engineering documentation. 
  • Maintain logs of system performance, failures, troubleshooting activities, and corrective actions. 
  • Support trend analysis and reliability improvement initiatives including Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) tracking. 
Sustainment & Upgrade Planning 
  • Assist with long-term sustainment planning including inventory management, spare tracking, maintenance scheduling, and equipment replacement planning. 
  • Provide technical recommendations for laboratory improvements and system upgrades. 
What You'll Bring 
  • Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or computer engineering
  • An active Secret clearance is required 
  • Minimum 4 years of experience supporting:
    • RF/EW research and development
    • Engineering laboratories
    • HITL integration environments
    • Prototype development and system integration activities
  • Specialized System Experience
    • Experience operating, integrating, or maintaining following RF simulator systems:
    • Dynamic Electromagnetic Environment Simulator (DEES)
    • mmWave 
    • MicroDEES
    • VLB DEES
    • DEF DEES
    • PhaseDEES
  • RF Test Equipment Proficiency
    • Hands-on experience operating and interpreting measurements from:
    • Vector Network Analyzers (VNA)
    • Spectrum Analyzers
    • Signal Generators
    • Oscilloscopes
    • Power Meters
  • Troubleshooting & Integration Skills
    • Ability to read and interpret:
    • Electrical schematics
    • RF block diagrams
    • Wiring diagrams
    • Engineering documentation
    • Proven ability to troubleshoot integrated RF systems and laboratory hardware
  • Collaboration & Communication
    • Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary engineering teams
    • Strong written and verbal communication skills
    • Ability to clearly document test procedures, technical findings, and troubleshooting activities
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including using Pivot tables in excel, Cost Point & COBRA experience a plus
  • Must be able to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-moving environment
Ways to Stand Out – Preferred Requirements
  • Experience supporting defense or aerospace R&D programs
  • Experience supporting user demonstrations, technical evaluations, or government test events
  • Familiarity with laboratory asset management and calibration tracking systems
  • Experience supporting advanced RF, EW, radar, or electromagnetic environment simulation technologies
What Sets Us Apart?
SRC, Inc., a not-for-profit research and development company, combines information, science, technology and ingenuity to solve “impossible” problems in the areas of defense, environment and intelligence. Across our family of companies, we apply bright minds, fresh thinking and relentless determination to deliver innovative products and services that are redefining possible®. When you join our team, you’ll be a part of something truly meaningful — helping to keep America and its allies safe and strong. You’ll collaborate with more than 1,400 engineers, scientists and professionals — with 20 percent of those employees having served in the military — in a highly innovative, inclusive and equitable work environment. You’ll receive a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package that includes four or more weeks of paid time off to start, 10 percent employer contribution toward retirement, and 100 percent tuition support.
 
Total compensation for this role is market competitive. The anticipated salary range for this position based out of Dayton, OH is estimated at $95,000 to $115,000 annually. The actual salary will vary based on applicant’s experience, skills, and abilities, geographic location as well as other business and organizational needs. SRC offers competitive benefit options, for more details please visit our website. 
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