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Rf Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

RF Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$88K - $163K/yr

Overview i3 has an exciting opportunity for a RF Engineer to support the Naval Research Laboratory, Tactical Electronic Warfare Division. The TEWD's mission is to protect the warfighter from emerging ...

RF Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$88K - $163K/yr

Overview i3 has an exciting opportunity for a RF Engineer to support the Naval Research Laboratory, Tactical Electronic Warfare Division. The TEWD's mission is to protect the warfighter from emerging ...

Senior RF Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$130K - $225K/yr

The RF Engineer will design RF subsystems for threat simulators, as well as serve as a subject matter expert (SME) during the analysis of seekers. Pay Range $130,000 - 225,000 The pay range for this ...

RF Engineer

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$100K - $165K/yr

MAG Aerospace is seeking a cleared subject matter expert skilled in RF Engineering, Microwave propagation techniques, commercial modulation techniques/ schemes, overall system level communication ...

As an RF Engineer, you will be responsible for product design, development, and support. Responsibilities include designing new products from concept to full production for GPS, Satellite ...

RF Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$225K - $275K/yr

Steely is looking for a like-minded individual to join our team as a RF Engineer . Our Team embraces the concept that the sky's the limit. Regardless of where you are at in your career, our goal is ...

RF Engineer

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$100 - $165/hr

Position Summary MAG Aerospace is seeking a cleared subject matter expert skilled in RF Engineering, Microwave propagation techniques, commercial modulation techniques/schemes, overall system level ...

Senior RF Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$130K - $225K/yr

The RF Engineer will design RF subsystems for threat simulators, as well as serve as a subject matter expert (SME) during the analysis of seekers. Pay Range $130,000 - 225,000 The pay range for this ...

As an RF Engineer, you will be responsible for product design, development, and support. Responsibilities include designing new products from concept to full production for GPS, Satellite ...

RF Engineer

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$100K - $165K/yr

Position Summary MAG Aerospace is seeking a cleared subject matter expert skilled in RF Engineering, Microwave propagation techniques, commercial modulation techniques/ schemes, overall system level ...

RF Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$225 - $275/hr

Steely is looking for a like‑minded individual to join our team as a RF Engineer . Our Team embraces the concept that the sky's the limit. Regardless of where you are at in your career, our goal is ...

We are seeking an experienced Cellular / RF Engineer to support enterpriselevel wireless connectivity initiatives, with a focus on cellular (4G/5G) and other RF technologies. The ideal candidate will ...

Showing results 21-40

Rf Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$38.5K

$122.4K

$190.4K

How much do rf engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for rf engineer in Reston, VA is $122,429.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,400.00 and $144,600.00 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 Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Rf Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Rf Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,429 per year, or $58.9 per hour.

$88K - $163K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Overview
i3 has an exciting opportunity for a RF Engineer to support the Naval Research Laboratory, Tactical Electronic Warfare Division. The TEWD's mission is to protect the warfighter from emerging threats by advancing electronic warfare (EW) through RDT&E of current and future technologies.
Pay Range $88,000 - $163,000
The pay range for this position is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, geographic location, and any applicable laws.
Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, integrate, and test RF subsystem in seekers for threat simulators.
  • Perform analysis of emerging RF seeker threats and report findings to internal and external stakeholders.

Qualifications
Required:
  • BS or MS degree in electrical engineering, physics, or related field.
  • Minimum two (2) years of experience.
  • Experience with RF subsystem design.
  • Modeling and simulation of RF components.
  • Experience with RF front end design (e.g. antenna design).
  • Laboratory experience with RF equipment.

Desired:
  • Five (5) years of experience.
  • Experience supporting anechoic chamber operations.
  • Experience with digital signal processing in radar applications.
  • RF test and evaluation using laboratory equipment (e.g. Keysight ADS, spectrum analyzer).
  • Experience with RF antennas and beamforming networks.
  • MATLAB application in simulation and data analysis.

Security Clearance:
  • Active Secret clearance.

About i3
i3 is a technically diverse, 100% team member owned business, headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama specializing in missile and aviation systems engineering and logistic services, electronic warfare and electromagnetic effects analysis, UAS system integration and flight operations, full lifecycle C5ISR engineering services, cybersecurity and IT/IA innovative solutions and virtual training, simulation & serious game development and implementation. We have established a broad offering of products and capabilities collectively providing decades of experience supporting the full complement of DoD military services, Missile Defense Agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers.
Perks of being a team member owner include:
  • Long-term financial security
  • Higher job satisfaction
  • Greater job security
  • Personal and professional growth
  • Great company culture

Other outstanding benefits:
  • Excellent insurance coverage
  • 401(k) match
  • Generous PTO
  • Health and wellness incentives
  • Tuition and certification reimbursement
  • Countless opportunities to give back to the community through i3 Cares

We work hard. We compete hard. We play hard. Apply now to join us!