ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Rf Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

L3HHCM20

RF Engineering Technician D

San Diego, CA · On-site

$75K - $139K/yr

RF Engineering Technician D Job Code: 35835 Job Location: San Diego, CA Job Schedule: 9/80 (employee's work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked - and have every other Friday off ...

Comet

RF Engineering Technician

San Jose, CA · On-site

$52 - $57/hr

Work directly with RF engineers and system design managers to perform critical testing of custom auto-match products. * Identify and troubleshoot product hardware/software issues found during testing ...

Comet

RF Engineering Technician

San Jose, CA

$52 - $57/hr

Work directly with RF engineers and system design managers to perform critical testing of custom auto-match products. * Identify and troubleshoot product hardware/software issues found during testing ...

Vast

Senior RF Engineer

Long Beach, CA

$120K - $171K/yr

Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or other relevant engineering or ... Senior RF Engineer: $147,600 - $209,520

SSI

RF Engineering Technician

San Diego, CA

$135K - $150K/yr

Description SSI is seeking an RF Engineering Technician with a broad range of experience in communications systems to work onsite in San Diego, CA (Topside). The successful candidate will have ...

idexcel

RF Test Engineer

San Diego, CA

Solid understanding of RF principles, RF engineering tools and cellular radio building blocks . Knowledge of programming languages. (C++/VB preferred). Familiar with ATE testers (93k and UFLEX ...

SpaceX

RF Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

Bachelor's degree in computer engineering, or electrical engineering * 1+ years of experience RF engineering: * Experience with modeling/analysis tools/software such as HFSS, CST, ADS, MATLAB, C/C ...

Strategic Employment

RF/EMC Engineer

Dublin, CA · On-site

$135K - $150K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, RF Engineering, or related field * Long-term US work authorization (no visa sponsorship or conversion) Strong Pluses: * Direct experience with ...

Strategic Employment

RF/EMC Engineer

Dublin, CA

$135K - $150K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, RF Engineering, or related field * Long-term US work authorization (no visa sponsorship or conversion) Strong Pluses: * Direct experience with ...

Vast

Senior RF Systems Engineer

Long Beach, CA

$147K - $209K/yr

Collaborate with a multidisciplinary engineering team to form tightly integrated avionics ... Experience with RF test equipment such as Spectrum Analyzers, VNAs, Power Meters, Cable Analyzers ...

Motorola Solutions, Inc.

RF Design Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Bachelors of Science (or higher) in Electrical Engineering. * Minimum 2 years of multi-GHz RF hardware development experience. * Good working knowledge of RF board layout, fabrication, and packaging.

Motorola

RF Design Engineer

San Diego, CA

$100K - $150K/yr

Bachelors of Science (or higher) in Electrical Engineering. * Minimum 2 years of multi-GHz RF hardware development experience. * Good working knowledge of RF board layout, fabrication, and packaging.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsRf Engineering JobsRf Engineering Jobs in California

Rf Engineering information

See California salary details

$36.5K

$116.1K

$180.6K

How much do rf engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for rf engineering 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 is RF Engineering?

RF Engineering, or Radio Frequency Engineering, is a specialized field within electrical engineering that focuses on the design, development, and maintenance of devices and systems that use radio waves. These professionals work on communications systems such as wireless networks, radio, television broadcasting, radar, and satellite communications. RF engineers are involved in tasks like designing antennas, optimizing signal coverage, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Their expertise is crucial for the reliable operation of modern wireless technologies.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, or aerospace engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

Do RF engineers make a lot?

RF engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced RF engineers working in telecommunications, aerospace, or defense can earn higher wages, often supplemented by specialized skills and certifications. Overall, the role offers good earning potential within the engineering field.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior RF engineers, electrical engineers, and systems engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and advanced certifications can earn $200,000 or more annually. High salaries are often associated with roles in telecommunications, aerospace, or defense industries, especially for those working in leadership or with expertise in RF design, signal processing, and related tools.

What does an RF engineer do?

An RF engineer designs, tests, and maintains radio frequency systems used in wireless communication, such as cell towers, satellite links, and radar. They analyze signal propagation, optimize system performance, and often use tools like spectrum analyzers and simulation software to ensure reliable communication networks.

What is the difference between Rf Engineering vs Wireless Network Engineering?

AspectRf EngineeringWireless Network Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, RF certifications (e.g., FCC, RF-specific courses)Bachelor's in Computer Science, Networking certifications (e.g., CWNA, CCNA Wireless)
Work EnvironmentDesigning, testing, and optimizing RF hardware and systems, often in labs or field sitesPlanning, deploying, and maintaining wireless networks, primarily in office or outdoor environments
Employer & Industry UsageTelecom, aerospace, defense, hardware manufacturingTelecom, IT, enterprise networking, service providers

RF Engineering focuses on designing and testing radio frequency hardware and systems, while Wireless Network Engineering emphasizes deploying and managing wireless network infrastructure. Both roles require technical expertise but differ in their focus areas and work environments.

What are some common challenges RF Engineers face when working on wireless communication projects?

RF Engineers often encounter challenges such as mitigating interference, optimizing signal coverage, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Working in this role requires balancing technical trade-offs like cost, performance, and power consumption while troubleshooting complex issues that arise during testing and deployment. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—such as hardware designers, software developers, and field technicians—is essential to address these challenges and deliver robust wireless solutions.

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, signal processing, and electromagnetic theory, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in electrical or electronics engineering. Familiarity with RF simulation and design tools such as HFSS, ADS, and network analyzers, as well as certifications like FCC licensing, is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and troubleshooting complex systems. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure the reliable design, implementation, and maintenance of RF systems used in telecommunications, aerospace, and other industries.
What are the most commonly searched types of Rf Engineering jobs in California? The most popular types of Rf Engineering jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Rf Engineering jobs in California? For Rf Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Rf Engineering jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Rf Engineering jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Rf Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Rf Engineering job openings:
Rf Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rf Engineering job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,139 per year, or $55.8 per hour.

Sr. Mgr, RF Engineering

Lam Research Corporation

Fremont, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Lam Research rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

54th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

The group you'll be a part of
In the Global Products Group, we are dedicated to excellence in the design and engineering of Lam's etch and deposition products. We drive innovation to ensure our cutting-edge solutions are helping to solve the biggest challenges in the semiconductor industry.
The impact you'll make
You will lead and grow a high-performing RF Engineering organization responsible for delivering robust, manufacturable, and high-reliability RF solutions that directly enable next-generation semiconductor equipment and customer outcomes. Through strong technical leadership, disciplined execution, and inclusive people management, you will shape RF technology roadmaps, accelerate product development, and ensure engineering excellence across the full product lifecycle-while developing the next generation of RF technical leaders.
What you'll do
  • Lead multiple RF engineering teams responsible for architecture, design, simulation, validation, and production support of RF systems, modules, and subsystems.
  • Establish and maintain technical standards, design practices, and review rigor to ensure performance, reliability, manufacturability, and regulatory compliance.
  • Drive execution of complex, cross-functional programs by partnering closely with Product Management, Systems Engineering, Program Management, Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, and Field organizations.
  • Translate business and customer requirements into clear RF technical strategies, roadmaps, and resourcing plans.
  • Provide hands-on technical leadership for critical design decisions, issue resolution, root cause analysis, and corrective action on escalated RF performance or reliability issues.
  • Develop, mentor, and retain top RF engineering talent through coaching, career development planning, and a culture of accountability, learning, and inclusion.
  • Contribute to strategic planning, budgeting, and continuous improvement initiatives that strengthen engineering execution, cycle time, and cost efficiency.

Who we're looking for
A technically credible, people-centered engineering leader who can balance deep RF expertise with strategic thinking, operational discipline, and collaborative leadership in a matrixed, fast-paced environment.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering or a closely related discipline.
  • 10+ years of experience in RF engineering, including system, module, or subsystem development across design, validation, and production support.
  • 5+ years of engineering management experience leading teams of RF engineers and/or first-line managers.
  • Demonstrated technical leadership in RF architectures, modeling, simulation, test, and performance optimization.
  • Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, resolve complex technical issues, and deliver results aligned with business objectives.

Preferred qualifications
  • Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
  • Experience with RF power delivery, matching networks, high-power RF, plasma systems, or adjacent high-reliability RF applications.
  • Strong background in process discipline, design reviews, FMEA/RCCA, and continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Experience operating in global, matrixed organizations and influencing stakeholders without direct authority.
  • Track record of building inclusive teams, developing future leaders, and fostering a culture of technical excellence and integrity.

Our commitment
We believe it is important for every person to feel valued, included, and empowered to achieve their full potential. By bringing unique individuals and viewpoints together, we achieve extraordinary results.
Lam Research ("Lam" or the "Company") is an equal opportunity employer. Lam is committed to and reaffirms support of equal opportunity in employment and non-discrimination in employment policies, practices and procedures on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, or military and veteran status or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. It is the Company's intention to comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Company policy prohibits unlawful discrimination against applicants or employees.
Lam offers a variety of work location models based on the needs of each role. Our hybrid roles combine the benefits of on-site collaboration with colleagues and the flexibility to work remotely and fall into two categories - On-site Flex and Virtual Flex. 'On-site Flex' you'll work 3+ days per week on-site at a Lam or customer/supplier location, with the opportunity to work remotely for the balance of the week. 'Virtual Flex' you'll work 1-2 days per week on-site at a Lam or customer/supplier location, and remotely the rest of the time.
Salary
Salary Range for this position: $138,900.00 - $296,000.00.
The above salary range for this position is relevant to applicants that reside in California and most states. Salary offers will depend on factors that include the location you work from, your level, education, training, specific skills, years of experience and comparison to other employees already in this role. Actual salary may vary from salary offered due to numerous factors including but not limited to unpaid time off, unpaid leave, company mandated shutdown, and other relevant factors.
Our Perks and Benefits
At Lam, our people make amazing things possible. That's why we invest in you throughout the phases of your life with a comprehensive set of outstanding benefits.

What Lam Research employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Lam Research logo

About Lam Research

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Lam Research designs and builds products for semiconductor manufacturing, including equipment for thin film deposition, plasma etch, photoresist strip, and wafer cleaning processes.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Fremont, CA, US

Year founded

1980

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All Lam Research Jobs

Apply