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Rf Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior RF Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$147K - $202K/yr

General Profile Will work in a Technology group that takes input from Process teams and develops design requirements for the Engineering group and suppliers for RF and other power delivery to an etch ...

RF Engineer (Starship)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$125 - $175/hr

RF ENGINEER (STARSHIP) SpaceX's RF team revolutionizes communications and navigation in orbital flight and space travel, opening access for humankind to establish new frontiers in space and ...

New

The RF Engineer III is a technical expert that will lead as a project engineer for RF products including Oscillators, Central Power Supply Units (CPSUs), Frequency Converters, and Amplifiers for our ...

RF Engineer (Starship)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

RF ENGINEER (STARSHIP) The Starship RF team revolutionizes communications and navigation in orbital flight and space travel, opening access for humankind to establish new frontiers in space and ...

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 ...

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 ...

The RF Engineer III is a technical expert that will lead as a project engineer for RF products including Oscillators, Central Power Supply Units (CPSUs), Frequency Converters, and Amplifiers for our ...

RF Engineer (Starship)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

RF ENGINEER (STARSHIP) The Starship RF team revolutionizes communications and navigation in orbital flight and space travel, opening access for humankind to establish new frontiers in space and ...

Senior RF Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$147K - $202K/yr

General Profile Will work in a Technology group that takes input from Process teams and develops design requirements for the Engineering group and suppliers for RF and other power delivery to an etch ...

RF Engineer (Starship)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

RF ENGINEER (STARSHIP) The Starship RF team revolutionizes communications and navigation in orbital flight and space travel, opening access for humankind to establish new frontiers in space and ...

PRINCIPAL 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 ...

... RF transmission line modeling, S-parameters, time and frequency domain analysis and data measurements and correlation techniques * Knowledge and experience of using test instruments and programmable ...

As a Principal RF Engineer, you will lead the development of the RF electronics that define the performance of our next-generation radar systems. You will own the most challenging RF design problems ...

Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline. * Minimum of 5 years of experience in RF design and development. * Experience with basic RF concepts such as impedance matching, smith charts, power ...

... RF transmission line modeling, S-parameters, time and frequency domain analysis and data measurements and correlation techniques * Knowledge and experience of using test instruments and programmable ...

PRINCIPAL 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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Rf Engineer information

See California salary details

$36.5K

$116.1K

$180.6K

How much do rf engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 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, antenna design, and proficiency with tools like MATLAB and RF simulation software are sought after across telecommunications, defense, and aerospace 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?

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 is an RF engineer?

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Rf Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Rf Engineer jobs in California 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:
Infographic showing various Rf Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,139 per year, or $55.8 per hour.

Senior RF Engineer

Applied Materials

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$147K - $202K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Applied Materials rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 537 rated manufacturers


Job description

Who We Are
Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips - the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world - like AI and IoT. If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world.
What We Offer
Salary:
$147,000.00 - $202,500.00
Location:
Santa Clara,CA
You'll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible-while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Careers website to learn more.
At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We're committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. Learn more about our benefits.
As an Electrical Engineer, you are responsible for designing, modifying, and troubleshooting electrical or electronic engineering assemblies, layouts, schematics, and drawings to advance the equipment that supports our technology. Using your technical experience and critical thinking skills, you will perform engineering analysis, generate test reports, develop innovative solutions, and create documentation for product releases. You will also coordinate the procurement and assembly of components, identify sources of critical parts, and resolve technical issues to ensure peak performance.
General Profile
Will work in a Technology group that takes input from Process teams and
develops design requirements for the Engineering group and suppliers for RF and other power delivery to an etch processing chamber. The applicant should be able to use best practices and knowledge of internal or external business issues to improve products or services, primarily to the RF and bias systems. Solves unique and complex problems that have a broad impact on the business. Eventually will lead project teams to achieve milestones and objectives. Competencies: Working knowledge of electromagnetic theory and basic RF system design (RF generation, RF match or RF filters). Participate in design reviews, validate designs, test & validate modules, select components, grounding & shielding design, write & review technical documentation. Will need to learn how to run the plasma etch tool, will also learn AMAT Product Development Life Cycle, and Project Management. Must have good problem-solving skills and accuracy & attention to detail.
Key Responsibilities
1. Run tests in the lab to assess power delivery performance, trouble shoot problems, and perform Concept & Feasibility tests for possible improvements
2. Develop and implement concepts for a wide range of complex product issues and engineering solutions
3. Technical lead and/or execute engineering projects and spearhead research and development of new technologies, as appropriate
4. Problem identification and troubleshooting a wide range of complex engineering problems
5. Specify and/or perform engineering analysis of complex scope
6. Interface with internal and external customers regarding complex electrical issues to address customers High Value Problems (HVP) for a range of products
7. Independently, generate product specifications
8. Define, coordinate, perform and document engineering tests
Functional Knowledge
  • Demonstrates conceptual and practical expertise in own discipline and basic knowledge of related disciplines

Business Expertise
  • Has knowledge of best practices and how own area integrates with others; is aware of the competition and the factors that differentiate them in the market

Leadership
  • Acts as a resource for colleagues with less experience; may lead small projects with manageable risks and resource requirements

Problem Solving
  • Solves complex problems; takes a new perspective on existing solutions; exercises judgment based on the analysis of multiple sources of information

Impact
  • Impacts a range of customer, operational, project or service activities within own team and other related teams; works within broad guidelines and policies

Interpersonal Skills
  • Explains difficult or sensitive information; works to build consensus

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or similar field
  • 7-10 years of experience in a related field

Preferred Qualifications:
  • M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or similar field
  • Extensive experience with project management and the Applied Materials product development life cycle
  • Demonstrated experience leading teams

Additional Information
Time Type:
Full time
Employee Type:
Assignee / Regular
Travel:
Yes, 10% of the Time
Relocation Eligible:
Yes
The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and with consideration of internal equity of our current team members. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable.
For all sales roles, the posted salary range is the Target Total Cash (TTC) range for the role, which is the sum of base salary and target bonus amount at 100% goal achievement.
Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.
In addition, Applied endeavors to make our careers site accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact us via e-mail at Accommodations_Program@amat.com, or by calling our HR Direct Help Line at 877-612-7547, option 1, and following the prompts to speak to an HR Advisor. This contact is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.

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About Applied Materials

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Applied Materials is the global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We're the brain (and the brawn) behind every new technology development--whether it's building semiconductor chips for smartphones and computers, or the underpinnings for robotics, AI and even smart TV display screens. With 27,000 employees in 19 countries, we offer an exciting place to grow and learn alongside some of the best people you'll ever meet. We take deep pride in our Culture of Inclusion, and we celebrate the diverse backgrounds, perspectives and experiences that help us build stronger, more resilient teams. Join us as we innovate to Make Possible a Better Future!

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1967