ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Rf Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Vast

Senior RF Engineer

Long Beach, CA

$120K - $171K/yr

Vast is looking for a Senior RF Engineer , reporting to the Director of RF Engineering , to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of human-rated space ...

Samara Aerospace

Senior RF Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$5.2K/wk

Samara Aerospace is seeking a Senior RF Engineer to join our growing engineering team. In this role, you will own the full lifecycle of RF systems development-from requirements definition and ...

Vast

Senior RF Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$147K - $209K/yr

Vast is looking for a Senior RF Engineer , reporting to the Director of RF Engineering , to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of human-rated space ...

HEICO

RF Engineer

Chatsworth, CA · On-site

POSITION: RF ENGINEER LOCATION: Chatsworth, CA SHIFT: Day (7:00 am - 5:30 pm; Monday thru Thursday) BASIC FUNCTIONS: The RF Antenna Engineer will work with other Electrical Design Engineers ...

Relativity Space

Senior RF Engineer

Long Beach, CA

As an RF Engineer on Relativity's Interplanetary Program, you will own the architecture, design, development, testing, and operation of next-generation high-reliability RF systems that enable deep ...

Abbott

Senior RF Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

The Senior RF Engineer; oversees design and testing of the RF communications hardware within Abbott's cardiac implantable medical devices. Leads development of the product PCB layout, RF antenna ...

HEICO

RF Engineer

Chatsworth, CA · On-site

POSITION: RF ENGINEER LOCATION: Chatsworth, CA SHIFT: Day (7:00 am - 5:30 pm; Monday thru Thursday) BASIC FUNCTIONS: The RF Antenna Engineer will work with other Electrical Design Engineers ...

Heico

RF Engineer

Chatsworth, CA

POSITION: RF ENGINEER LOCATION: Chatsworth, CA SHIFT: Day (7:00 am - 5:30 pm; Monday thru Thursday) BASIC FUNCTIONS: The RF Antenna Engineer will work with other Electrical Design Engineers ...

SpaceX

RF Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

RF ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts. While Starlink is designed for consumer and commercial use ...

Abbott

Senior RF Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

The Senior RF Engineer; oversees design and testing of the RF communications hardware within Abbott's cardiac implantable medical devices. Leads development of the product PCB layout, RF antenna ...

ThinKom Solutions

RF Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

Works as part of an integrated product team under the direction of a lead RF Engineer and Program Manager. * May support multiple programs/products simultaneously. * Provide effective and efficient ...

New

Abbott

Senior RF Engineer

Sylmar, CA · On-site

The Senior RF Engineer; oversees design and testing of the RF communications hardware within Abbott's cardiac implantable medical devices. Leads development of the product PCB layout, RF antenna ...

ThinKom Solutions

RF Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Works as part of an integrated product team under the direction of a lead RF Engineer and Program Manager. * May support multiple programs/products simultaneously. * Provide effective and efficient ...

New

ThinKom Solutions, Inc

RF Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Works as part of an integrated product team under the direction of a lead RF Engineer and Program Manager. * May support multiple programs/products simultaneously. * Provide effective and efficient ...

ThinKom Solutions, Inc

RF Engineer

Hawthorne, CA

$80K - $120K/yr

Works as part of an integrated product team under the direction of a lead RF Engineer and Program Manager. * May support multiple programs/products simultaneously. * Provide effective and efficient ...

Neros Technologies

Senior RF Engineer

Torrance, CA

$149K - $208K/yr

What you will be doing As a Senior RF Engineer, you will take technical ownership of critical wireless subsystems and drive their development from concept to mass production. In this leadership role ...

SpaceX

RF Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

RF ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts. While Starlink is designed for consumer and commercial use ...

Oslo Solutions

RF Engineer

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

All applicants will be evaluated solely on the basis of their ability, competence, and performance of the essential functions of their positions." RF Engineer Location : Menlo Park, CA Duration ...

SpaceX

RF Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

RF ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts. While Starlink is designed for consumer and commercial use ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsRf Engineer JobsRf Engineer Jobs in California

Rf Engineer information

See California salary details

$36.5K

$116.1K

$180.6K

How much do rf engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for rf engineer in California is $116,139.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,200.00 and $137,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does an RF Engineer Do?

A radio frequency (RF) engineer's primary responsibilities are to collect data, research radio frequency, and analyze gathered information to improve radar design. Your duties have you working with intelligence sensors, surveillance radars, cellular components, over-the-horizon radar, and radio waves. You design modules and switches to improve how the electronics transmit and perform surveys and installations. You take measurements of electromagnetic emissions, install equipment, test your designs, and troubleshoot and debug to improve the radio frequency and speed. RF engineers often coordinate with technicians and other engineers to cover multiple data sites.

Is RF engineering in demand?

RF engineering is in demand due to the growth of wireless communication, 5G networks, and satellite technology. RF engineers with skills in signal processing, circuit design, and proficiency with tools like MATLAB and RF test equipment are sought after across telecommunications, aerospace, and defense industries.

What is the difference between Rf Engineer vs Wireless Communications Engineer?

AspectRf EngineerWireless Communications Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, RF certificationsBachelor's in Electrical/Communications Engineering, RF certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and optimization of RF systemsDevelopment and deployment of wireless communication systems
Industry UsageTelecom, aerospace, defenseTelecom, mobile networks, IoT

RF Engineers focus on designing and testing RF components and systems, while Wireless Communications Engineers work on developing and implementing wireless network solutions. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications, often overlap in industry applications, but differ in their specific focus areas within wireless technology.

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

To thrive as an RF Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, RF circuit design, and signal processing, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with tools such as spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, simulation software (like HFSS or ADS), and certifications such as FCC or amateur radio licenses are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork help set top performers apart in this field. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing, testing, and optimizing wireless communication systems to ensure reliable and efficient performance.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as senior software engineers, petroleum engineers, or aerospace engineers can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and work in high-demand industries or leadership positions.

What are RF Engineers?

RF Engineers, or Radio Frequency Engineers, are professionals who design, implement, and maintain systems that transmit or receive radio waves. They work with wireless communication systems, including cellular networks, Wi-Fi, satellite, and broadcasting technologies. Their responsibilities include optimizing signal strength, troubleshooting interference issues, and ensuring regulatory compliance. RF Engineers use specialized software and testing equipment to analyze and improve network performance. They are essential in industries such as telecommunications, aerospace, and defense.

What is RF in salary?

In the context of an RF Engineer, RF in salary typically refers to the salary range associated with radio frequency engineering roles. These positions often require specialized skills in wireless communication, signal processing, and related tools, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and certifications. RF Engineers generally earn competitive salaries due to the technical expertise required in designing and testing RF systems.

What are some typical challenges an RF Engineer might face when working on wireless network deployments?

RF Engineers often encounter challenges such as signal interference, environmental obstacles, and fluctuating network demands. Dealing with interference from both internal and external sources requires careful planning, site surveys, and frequent optimization. Additionally, working in multidisciplinary teams with network architects, field technicians, and software engineers is common, requiring strong communication skills to coordinate solutions. Keeping up-to-date with evolving wireless standards and technologies is also essential for success in this role.

What does an RF engineer do?

An RF engineer designs, tests, and maintains radio frequency systems used in wireless communication, such as cell phones, satellite, and radar systems. They work with tools like spectrum analyzers and simulation software, often requiring knowledge of signal processing and certifications like FCC licensing. Their role involves optimizing signal quality, ensuring compliance with standards, and troubleshooting technical issues in communication networks.
More about Rf Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Rf Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Rf Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Rf Engineer jobs in California? For Rf Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rf Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Rf Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Rf Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Rf Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Rf Engineer jobs in CA? For Rf Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Rf Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rf Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,139 per year, or $55.8 per hour.
Senior RF Engineer

Senior RF Engineer

Vast

Long Beach, CA

$120K - $171K/yr

Other

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Vast is looking for a Senior RF Engineer, reporting to the Director of RF Engineering, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of human-rated space stations.

This will be a full-time, exempt position located in our Long Beach location.

Responsibilities: 

  • Comprehensive ownership of one or more Vast-designed or COTS radio products from production to mission
  • Attain technical proficiency with your component(s) and function as the technical authority on its operation
  • Manage and the product development timeline in the context of the  project schedule
  • Maintain relationships with vendors and hold them accountable for product requirements, deliveries, and schedule
  • Define test plans and procedures for acceptance and qualification testing
  • Define checkout tests to validate proper operation during and after integration onto the space station
  • Define how the components will be used during the mission
  • Identify technical issues during development and drive them to resolution
  • Guide your component through manufacture, acceptance testing, and qualification testing

Minimum Qualifications:

  •  Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or other relevant engineering or science discipline

Preferred Skills & Experience:

  • Strong understanding of the theory and usage of standard radio test equipment
  • Strong background in radio and electronics test and debug
  • Strong understanding of digital modulation formats such as BPSK, QPSK, QAM
  • Proficiency writing and maintaining RF link budgets
  • Understanding of the basic concepts of forward error correction (FEC) codes
  • Familiarity with key receiver specifications including noise figure, sensitivity, and bit error rate
  • Experience with aerospace acceptance and qualification test practices
  • RF system and circuit design software such as Matlab and Keysight ADS
  • Familiarity with RF block lineup design and cascaded noise/linearity analysis
  • Familiarity with RF power amplifiers and standard figures of merit such as Psat, P1dB, OIP3, ACLR, and PAE
  • Strong understanding of S-parameters
  • Understanding of Smith Charts and impedance matching networks

Additional Requirements:

  • Electromagnetic simulation software such as HFSS
  • Understanding of the OSI networking model

Pay Range: 

  • RF Engineer Level II: $120,540 - $171,100
  • Senior RF Engineer: $147,600 - $209,520

Apply