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Rf Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

i3

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 ...

MAG Aerospace

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 ...

MAG Aerospace

RF Engineer

Fort Belvoir, VA

$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 ...

Koniag, Inc.

Cellular / RF Engineer (TS)

Washington, DC · On-site

$240K - $260K/yr

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

kgs

Cellular / RF Engineer (TS)

Washington, DC

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 ...

kgs

Cellular / RF Engineer (TS)

Washington, DC · On-site

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 ...

Maxtena Inc

Jr. RF Engineer

Germantown, MD · On-site

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

Maxtena Inc

Jr. RF Engineer

Germantown, MD

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

Mu-Del Electronics

Be Seen First

Mid-level or Senior RF Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

Mu-Del Electronics is looking to hire a Mid-level or Senior RF Engineer with PCB layout experience. They will work with software and mechanical engineers by generating RF schematics/BOMs and layout ...

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All JobsRf Engineer JobsRf Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

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 Jun 16, 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 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 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 $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and certain electrical or aerospace engineering roles can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. Executive or managerial engineering positions may also reach this level with bonuses and stock options.

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. The salary varies based on experience, location, and certifications, with median salaries often between $80,000 and $130,000 annually. RF engineers also often work with specialized tools and require knowledge of wireless communication standards.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced RF engineers working in senior roles, specialized fields, or in high-cost-of-living areas can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. Such compensation typically requires advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience in telecommunications, defense, or aerospace sectors.

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 signal analysis tools, simulation software, and may require knowledge of regulations and certifications to ensure optimal system performance and compliance.
More about Rf Engineer jobs
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Rf Engineer jobs near you

Senior RF Engineer

i3

Washington, DC • On-site

$130K - $225K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 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. 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 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, model, and verify RF and mixed signal subsystem in seekers for threat simulators.
  • Support verification efforts for RF, analog, and digital hardware designs.
  • Deriving and trading requirements with subsystem engineers and component designers.
  • Perform analysis of emerging RF seeker threats and report findings to stakeholders.
Qualifications

Required:

  • BS or MS degree in electrical engineering, physics, or related field.
  • At least seven (7) years of experience.
  • Experience with RF subsystem design in radar systems.
  • Experience with radar waveforms such as Linear FM (LFM) chirps and BPSK.
  • Experience with RF antennas and beamforming networks.
  • Experience with digital signal processing in radar applications.
  • RF test and evaluation experience using industry-standard RF laboratory equipment.
  • Working knowledge of an EM simulation tool (HFSS, CST Studio, Sonnet, ADS, HSPICE, SI-Wave) and MATLAB.

Desired:

  • Reverse engineering experience of RF subsystems.
  • Experience with RF missile seekers; guidance, navigation, and control systems; target detection; and seeker decision logic.

Security Clearance:

  • Active SECRET clearance
  • Ability to maintain a TS/SCI 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!

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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