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Rf Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Join the Fermilab team as an RF Controls Engineer! In this role, you will research, design, develop, and test the real-time digital signal processing and control systems - including accelerator Low ...

We are seeking an experienced RF Designer to lead the design, development, and validation of high ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field * 8+ years of experience ...

We are seeking an experienced RF Designer to lead the design, development, and validation of high ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field * 8+ years of experience ...

... RF, signal processing, and other engineering disciplines Define and document interfaces and data ... flows between subsystems Lead Functional and Physical Architecture development and allocation Cross ...

New

Decompose functional requirements to software, hardware, RF, signal processing, and other engineering disciplines * Define and document interfaces and data flows between subsystems * Lead Functional ...

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Rf Engineer information

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$38.1K

$121.2K

$188.5K

How much do rf engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for rf engineer in Chicago, IL is $121,228.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,400.00 and $143,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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 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.

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 RF testing are sought after in telecommunications, aerospace, and defense industries.

What is the average salary of a radio frequency engineer?

The average salary of a radio frequency (RF) engineer in the United States is approximately $100,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions typically start around $70,000, while experienced engineers with specialized skills can earn over $150,000 annually.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rf Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Rf Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

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

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

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Rf Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Rf Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Rf Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $121,228 per year, or $58.3 per hour.

Principal Engineer Electronics - Manufacturing Engineering (RF)

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 17 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: No relocation assistance availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: NoCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt 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.

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is a trusted provider of mission-enabling solutions for global security. We have awide portfolio of secure, affordable, integrated, and multi-domain systems and technologies. Our differentiated battlemanagement and cyber solutions deliver timely, mission-enabling information and provide superior situational awarenessand understanding to protect the U.S. and its global allies.

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is looking for you to join us as aPrincipal Engineer Electronics - Manufacturing Engineering (RF)based on-siteinRolling Meadows, IL.

Manufacturing Engineers thrive in an environment of daily unique challenges and close proximity to products. Engineers who do well in this setting enjoy seeing their work perform in a test or a product, collaborate and communicate well across functions, and are innovative problem solvers. Best suited to this role are those who enjoy learning and bring a sense of urgency and energy to their tasks.

This position will support software efforts associated with testing Radio Frequency (RF) production hardware in a dynamic, fast-paced and technically challenging production environment.

Behavioral Traits sought out:

  • The Manufacturing Process Engineers are expected to be problem solvers with the ability to provide results that are innovative and often achieved through collaboration across functional groups.
  • We seek individuals with proven excellence in the following 6 core competencies:
  • a) High levels of Self-accountability and Ownership
  • b) Acts with Speed
  • c) Responds to Challenges with Resilience
  • d) Leads with Courage
  • e) Sets vision for the assigned products
  • f) Builds a High Performing Team

This position will be full-time, on-site at our Rolling Meadows, IL. location.

This position is contingent upon funding/contract award.

What you will get to do:

  • Test Station Development:Lead and support Non-Recurring (NRE) test station development for EOIR products including requirements reviews, equipment selection and procurement, drawings, station build, validation, and development testing.
  • Design Feedback:Identify design improvements for manufacturability to reduce assembly complexity and costs. Engage with Design Engineering to successfully incorporate changes.
  • Support to Production: Coordinate with Design Engineering, Production technician, Project Management, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, and Quality organizations to test EOIR products and provide solutions to support nonconformance repair procedures.
  • Continuous improvement:Review of quality metrics to identify and lead efforts needed to implement continuous improvement initiatives to reduce cost, cycle time, and defects.
  • Project management:Leading and reporting day-to-day test engineering efforts, providing executive level presentation on current state of a project or on a plan to resolve a production level issue, performing earned value on non-recurring activities.

The ideal candidate will possess strong organizational, communication and leadership skills to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with all levels of management and individual contributors.

Basic Qualifications for the Principal Engineer Electronics (RF):

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Engineering Technology or related STEM field with a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience; OR a Master's degree in equivalent fields and minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience.
  • Experience with hardware and calibration / testing methodology
  • Experience working with use of any RF test instruments such as (but not limited to) Performance Network Analyzer, Signal Generator, Spectrum Analyzer, Oscilloscope, etc.
  • Experience with troubleshooting of hardware, software, or firmware issues
  • Experience completing hardware projects involving hardware design / development activities and/or integration and validation activities on schedule and on budget.
  • Experience in managing small to medium scale projects or leading continuous improvement projects.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance.
  • US Citizenship required.

Preferred Qualifications for the Principal Engineer Electronics (RF):

  • 5 or more years of experience in electronic hardware Manufacturing environment
  • Prior hardware & software troubleshooting experience of test equipment or prime hardware.
  • Experience in troubleshooting unit under test.
  • Experience with RF Electronic systems in manufacturing or design (software, firmware, etc.) environment.
  • Familiarity with reading schematics and interpreting electrical one-lines.
  • Active DoD Security Clearance.
  • Experience in creating test procedures or developing/improving manufacturing processes
  • Experience with Manufacturing software planning tools such as SAP or other ERP systems
  • Experience with Root Cause Corrective Action methods.

What We Can Offer You:

Northrop Grumman provides a comprehensive benefits package and a work environment that encourages your growth and supports the mutual success of our people and our company. Northrop Grumman benefits give you the flexibility and control to choose the benefits that make the most sense for you and your family.

Your benefits will include the following: Health Plan, Savings Plan, Paid Time Off, and Additional Benefits, including Education Assistance, Training and Development, 9/80 Work Schedule (where available), and much more!

#MPR

Primary Level Salary Range: $108,800.00 - $163,200.00The 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