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Rf Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary As a RF Systems Test Engineer at Lynk, you will wear many hats in the world of RF hardware/electronics and software/firmware. The immediate role of the RF Systems Test Engineer will be to ...

Engineer-RF - II

Arlington, VA · Remote

$50 - $55/hr

RF Engineer Location: Remote Long term Contract MUST HAVE SKILLS (Most Important): Excellent attention to detail Extensive experience on FUZE Required Knowledge of RF theory and practice, as well as ...

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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.
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:
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What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Rf Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Rf Engineer job openings:
Space Payload RF Engineer, Lead

Space Payload RF Engineer, Lead

Booz Allen Hamilton, Inc.

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Booz Allen Hamilton rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 57 rated business consultants


Job description

Space Payload RF Engineer, Lead
The Opportunity:
Are you ready to lead the design, development, integration, and test of mission-critical RF payloads that will define the next generation of space vehicles? As an RF engineer, you understand how complex RF, microwave, and software-defined radio systems come together to enable resilient and high-performance space missions. That expertise becomes essential as you architect and guide the development of advanced RF space vehicle payloads, integrate space-qualified components across wide frequency ranges, and ensure reliable performance under the stringent constraints of the space environment.
At Booz Allen, you'll apply your RF engineering experience to shape RF mission payloads designed to dynamically adapt to support custom waveforms. Our team develops mission-focused space technologies, from RF architecture and link analysis to payload integration, bus interfaces, and end-to-end system modeling. That's why we need you, an experienced RF payload leader who can drive RF subsystem architecture, guide antenna and front-end development, and collaborate closely with spacecraft subsystem engineering disciplines to build a payload that meets demanding standards and mission assurance requirements for space vehicles.
On our team, you'll lead technical efforts from concept through flight-ready implementation, including RF circuit and antenna design, integration of SDR-based capabilities, and verification activities supporting environmental, functional, and performance testing. Your work will directly impact the mission by enabling adaptable RF mission applications and reliable performance across evolving scenarios. You'll also mentor junior engineers, strengthen engineering rigor efforts, and help identify innovative opportunities that accelerate the mission's technical roadmap.
Take on this challenge in the rapidly evolving space sector as we advance resilient, scalable RF space payload capabilities that support mission critical objectives.
Join us. The world can't wait.
You Have:
  • 5+ years of experience with RF or microwave circuit design, including amplifiers, mixers, oscillators, filters, and antennas and metrics such as SNR and NF
  • Experience designing custom RF hardware or integrating COTS RF hardware through simulation, fabrication, testing, and optimization stages of product development for Space Payloads
  • Experience with advanced RF or microwave design techniques such as electromagnetic (EM) simulation
  • Experience with RF measurement and testing tools, including spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, and signal generators
  • Experience with design and RF simulation tools such as AWR Microwave Office, HFSS, or FEKO
  • Knowledge of AS9100 standards, mission assurance practices, and space hardware workmanship guidelines
  • Ability to troubleshoot and debug RF hardware
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines and work in a team environment
  • Top Secret clearance
  • Bachelor's degree

Nice If You Have:
  • Experience with national security satellite systems for SIGINT or GEOINT
  • Experience leading and managing small to medium-sized engineering teams
  • Experience with MATLAB, Python, and GitHub for signal processing applications, software, and algorithm development
  • Experience with descriptive MBSE tools such as Cameo Enterprise Architecture
  • Knowledge of lab automation and scripting to streamline testing processes and data acquisition
  • Possession of excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • TS/SCI clearance
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering preferred; Master's degree in Engineering a plus

Clearance:
Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information; Top Secret clearance is required.
Compensation
At Booz Allen, we celebrate your contributions, provide you with opportunities and choices, and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, work-life programs, and dependent care. Our recognition awards program acknowledges employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our values. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in Booz Allen's benefit programs. Individuals that do not meet the threshold are only eligible for select offerings, not inclusive of health benefits. We encourage you to learn more about our total benefits by visiting the Resource page on our Careers site and reviewing Our Employee Benefits page.
Salary at Booz Allen is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $99,000.00 to $225,000.00 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of Booz Allen's total compensation package for employees. This posting will close within 90 days from the Posting Date.
Identity Statement
As part of the hiring process, we will ask you to complete an identity verification process that leverages advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence to ensure authenticity and protect against identity fraud. You are expected to be on camera during interviews and assessments. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud.
Candidate AI Usage Policy
AI is a part of our daily work at Booz Allen, and we are committed to the responsible and ethical use of AI tools. However, we want to ensure a fair candidate process based on your own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or other tools to assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is prohibited unless permission is explicitly provided.
Work Model
Our people-first culture prioritizes the benefits of collaboration, whether it occurs in person or virtually. To support engagement and effective communication, employees working virtually are generally expected to have their cameras on during meetings.
  • Remote: If this position is listed as remote, there may still be occasions when you are required to work in person at a Booz Allen or customer facility.
  • Hybrid: If this position is listed as hybrid, you will be expected to work from a Booz Allen facility frequently, in alignment with leadership expectations and the needs of the role. You may also be required to work from or visit a customer facility.
  • Onsite: If this position is listed as onsite, work will primarily be performed at a Booz Allen office or customer facility, where employees will collaborate directly with colleagues and customers as required by the role.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local, or international law.

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About Booz Allen Hamilton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Booz Allen Hamilton is a leading provider of management and technology consulting services to the US government in defense, intelligence, and civil markets. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, the firm also serves major corporations, institutions, and not-for-profit organizations. Founded in 1914 by Edwin G. Booz, the company has a long-standing tradition of helping clients achieve success by delivering a wide range of consulting services that include strategic planning, human capital and learning, communication, systems development, and others. The company's mission is to empower people to change the world, and it has a reputation for maintaining the highest standards of integrity and-excellence.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1914