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Rf Engineering Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

High Level RF Engineer

Batavia, IL · On-site

$88K - $116K/yr

The candidate will work with high power RF systems (e.g. 1 to 60 kilowatt solid state amplifiers ... Perform engineering analysis, write reports and create presentations. * Respect, understand, and ...

Senior Wireless Engineer

Decatur, IL · On-site

$176K - $187K/yr

Key Responsibilities Architectural Strategy & RF Engineering • End-to-End Design: Architect and design large-scale wireless ecosystems (Wi-Fi 6/6E, LTE/Cellular) across diverse environments. Create ...

RF Design Engineer

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$64 - $128/hr

## RF Design EngineerApplylocations: Schaumburg, ILtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted 5 Days Agojob ... Works autonomously but able to work effectively with other engineering disciplines.* Sound analytic ...

RF Design Engineer

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$63K - $127K/yr

Works autonomously but able to work effectively with other engineering disciplines. * Sound ... Strong background in RF circuit design and wireless communication theory. Travel Requirements None ...

RF Design Engineer

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$63K - $127K/yr

Works autonomously but able to work effectively with other engineering disciplines. * Sound ... Strong background in RF circuit design and wireless communication theory. Travel RequirementsNone ...

Showing results 21-40

Rf Engineering information

See Illinois salary details

$35.9K

$114K

$177.3K

How much do rf engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for rf engineering in Illinois is $114,035.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,500.00 and $134,700.00 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 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, 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 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 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.

How much does an RF engineer earn?

RF engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $80,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in signal processing or certification can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $130,000 annually.

Is RF engineering in demand?

RF engineering is in high demand due to the growth of wireless communication, 5G networks, and satellite technology. Professionals with skills in RF design, testing, and certification are sought after in telecommunications, defense, and aerospace industries.

What does an RF engineer do?

An RF engineer designs, tests, and maintains radio frequency systems used in wireless communication, radar, and satellite systems. They work with tools like spectrum analyzers and simulation software, often requiring knowledge of signal propagation, antennas, and certifications such as FCC licensing. Their role involves ensuring reliable signal transmission and compliance with industry standards.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rf Engineering jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Rf Engineering jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Rf Engineering jobs in Illinois?

For Rf Engineering jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rf Engineering jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Rf Engineering jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Rf Engineering jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Rf Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Rf Engineering job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,035 per year, or $54.8 per hour.

High Level RF Engineer

Fermilab

Batavia, IL • On-site

$88K - $116K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Design, develop, implement and maintain hardware for high-power RF systems.

  • Participate in the daily operation and troubleshooting of RF systems for linacs and synchrotrons.

  • Collaborate with technical staff to verify system functionality and performance.


Fermilab rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 121 rated laboratories


Job description

The expected hiring range for this position is:
$88,800.00-$116,900.00.
Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such the scope and responsibilities of the position, qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs.
About the role:
Fermilab seeks a highly motivated Electrical Engineer in the Accelerator Division RF Department's High-Level RF Group to support operations of existing accelerators and the new PIP-II particle accelerator, featuring a new 800 MeV superconducting linear accelerator. The selected candidate will work in an operations and design team environment under the supervision of a scientist or a more senior engineer. The candidate will work with high power RF systems (e.g. 1 to 60 kilowatt solid state amplifiers, 200-kilowatt wide-band tetrode RF amplifiers, 30 kilowatt IOT amplifiers, and 0.3 to 10 megawatt klystron amplifiers with associated support hardware), and assist with current and future RF systems operation and maintenance. Candidate will have the opportunity to work closely with signals and systems directly affecting accelerator performance as well as have opportunities for hands-on learning of particle accelerator systems.
What your day-to-day as a High-Level RF Engineer at Fermilab will look like:
  • Design, develop, implement and maintain hardware for current and future high-power RF systems, from low level control circuitry to high power RF amplifiers.
  • Participate in the daily operation of RF systems for linacs and synchrotrons including troubleshooting.
  • Collaborate with technical staff to verify system functionality and performance.
  • Perform engineering analysis, write reports and create presentations.
  • Respect, understand, and value individual differences that embody the principles of diversity.
  • Abide by all environment, safety, and health regulations.

Essential Competencies and Attributes for Success:
  • Bachelor's Degree in an applicable Engineering discipline from an ABET accredited institution with 4+ years of engineering experience, or a master's degree or PhD in an applicable Engineering discipline from an ABET accredited institution with 2+ years of engineering experience.

Applicable Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:
  • Operational experience in high voltage & high current pulsed RF systems for linacs and synchrotrons is highly desired (e.g. Klystrons, Tetrodes, IOTs, and Solid State).
  • Experience with network analyzer to measure modes, impedance, VSWR and Q of RF resonant cavities desired.
  • Design, development, implementation and maintenance of hardware for high power RF systems.
  • Knowledgeable in high frequency analog circuits hardware design including interfacing between low level systems and high-power RF equipment.
  • Hands-on electronics hardware experience with oscilloscopes, signal generators, vector network analyzers, and spectrum analyzers is required.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.

Physical Activity and Work Conditions:
The position is normally scheduled for a daytime shift, though occasional off-shift machine studies and/or emergency call-ins shall be required as knowledge and skills develop.
HUMAN FACTORS: Mental Concentration, Sitting, Standing, Tight Work Schedule, Visually Demanding
CHEMICAL FACTORS: Solvents
Work Arrangement:
Please note that the described work arrangement is subject to change based on business needs and is not guaranteed to be final.
  • Onsite: This is an onsite role, and the candidate must be able to work from our Batavia office.

Benefits/Perks:
Fermilab offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits program, including:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision and Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Paid time off
  • Life insurance
  • Short and Long-term disability insurance
  • Retirement benefits
  • Onsite day care

Why Fermilab:
Fermilab is America's premier laboratory for particle physics and accelerator research, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. We support discovery science experiments in Illinois and locations around the world, including deep underground mines in South Dakota and Canada, mountaintops in Arizona and Chile, CERN in Europe and the South Pole.
Pre-Employment Screening:
Drug-Free Workplace & Pre-Employment Screening
Fermilab is dedicated to fostering a safe, productive and drug-free environment. An offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check and drug screening.
HSPD-12
In accordance with Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) new employees are required to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a federal background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws. Failure to obtain or maintain such government access authorization could result in the withdrawal of a job offer or future termination of employment.
Foreign Government Sponsored Activities
Fermilab employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. Such individuals will be asked to disclose any participation for review by Fermilab's Office of General Counsel.
REAL-ID Requirement for access to Fermilab Campus
Fermilab requires all members of the public to produce a REAL-ID, or equivalent, to access the Fermilab Campus for interviews or career events. A list of acceptable forms of ID can be found here: https://get-connected.fnal.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/REALID-Documents.pdf. If a candidate is selected for an interview but does not possess any of the equivalent documents, we may schedule a virtual interview.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Fermilab is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, and other legally protected categories.

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