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Rf Planning Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Barbaricum is seeking a Cellular / Radio Frequency Engineer II to support the design, integration ... and RF planning tools. • Experience with tactical communications or mission-critical wireless ...

Responsibilities Test Planning & Execution * Define, document, and execute automated and manual ... closely with RF systems engineers and architects. * Contribute to modeling, simulation, and ...

The technology-oriented engineer should understand both technical and programmatic aspects of fielded and planned future RF technologies, including operational concepts, applied technology, and ...

The technology-oriented engineer should understand both technical and programmatic aspects of fielded and planned future RF technologies, including operational concepts, applied technology, and ...

The technology-oriented engineer should understand both technical and programmatic aspects of fielded and planned future RF technologies, including operational concepts, applied technology, and ...

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Rf Planning Engineer information

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$37K

$117.7K

$183K

How much do rf planning engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for rf planning engineer in the United States is $117,680.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,500.00 and $139,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an RF Planning Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an RF Planning Engineer, you need a solid background in telecommunications, radio frequency theory, and network design, typically supported by an engineering degree in electronics or telecommunications. Familiarity with RF planning tools (such as Atoll or Planet), propagation modeling software, and understanding of 2G/3G/4G/5G technologies are essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are important soft skills for this position. These skills are crucial for optimizing network coverage, capacity, and quality, ensuring reliable wireless communication services.

What are RF Planning Engineers?

RF Planning Engineers are professionals who design and optimize the radio frequency (RF) networks used in wireless communication systems, such as mobile phone networks. They are responsible for tasks such as frequency allocation, cell site placement, coverage prediction, and interference management to ensure efficient and reliable network performance. Their work involves simulation, analysis, and field testing to create optimal network designs that meet coverage and capacity requirements. RF Planning Engineers play a critical role in expanding and maintaining wireless infrastructure to provide seamless connectivity for users.

What is the difference between Rf Planning Engineer vs Rf Optimization Engineer?

AspectRf Planning EngineerRf Optimization Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning and planning network coverage and capacityImproving network performance and efficiency
Required SkillsRadio network planning, coverage analysis, site selectionNetwork performance analysis, parameter tuning, troubleshooting
CertificationsRF planning, LTE/5G certifications often preferredRF optimization, LTE/5G certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentField site planning, network design teamsNetwork performance monitoring, optimization teams

While both roles involve RF technology, the Rf Planning Engineer focuses on designing and planning the network infrastructure, whereas the Rf Optimization Engineer concentrates on enhancing network performance after deployment. Both roles require similar certifications and work within the telecom industry, but their core responsibilities differ in the network lifecycle.

What are some common challenges faced by RF Planning Engineers when designing wireless networks, and how are they typically addressed?

RF Planning Engineers often encounter challenges such as interference management, coverage gaps, and capacity constraints while designing wireless networks. To address these, they use advanced simulation tools to model signal propagation, conduct site surveys to validate predictions, and collaborate with field engineers to optimize antenna placement. Regular coordination with network operations teams helps ensure that the planned network meets both technical specifications and user demands. Staying updated with the latest industry standards and technologies is also crucial for overcoming these challenges effectively.
More about Rf Planning Engineer jobs
Infographic showing various Rf Planning Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,680 per year, or $56.6 per hour.
Wireless Engineer (Secret Clearance)

Wireless Engineer (Secret Clearance)

ActioNet, Inc.

Dayton, OH • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Description

Wireless Engineer

Overview: The Wireless Engineer designs, installs, optimizes, and maintains mobile broadband, cellular, and WLAN systems across enterprise Base Area Networks (BAN). This role supports both legacy and modernized wireless infrastructure, ensuring maximum coverage, minimal interference, and compliance with Air Force and DoW technical, security, and spectrum standards. The Wireless Engineer contributes to system design, RF planning, troubleshooting, site surveys, documentation, and operational sustainment while collaborating with network engineering, cybersecurity, and base communications teams. The Wireless Engineer supports the design, deployment, and optimization of 4G LTE and 5G NR (New Radio) wireless solutions across enterprise and mission environments, ensuring resilient broadband connectivity and lowlatency performance for critical applications. The Wireless Engineer applies knowledge of RAN architecture, mobile core functions, and backhaul integration to ensure seamless mobility and highavailability wireless service.

Location: Dayton, Ohio

Secret Clearance Required

Key Responsibilities

Wireless and Broadband System Engineering

  • Assist with the design of mobile broadband/cellular solutions across BAN environments, including antennas, power, backhaul, and spectrum utilization

  • Design enterprise WLAN infrastructure using advanced RF principles, including predictive and onsite RF modeling, heat mapping, and site surveys

  • Ensure WLAN design follows DoD/DAF RF, HERO, HERP, and HERF safety standards and spectrum certification requirements

  • Support greenfield wireless designs-no legacy wireless reuse-per modernized network requirements

  • Evaluate RF propagation characteristics, building materials, multipath conditions, and flight line/industrial environment constraints

Installation, Configuration, and Integration

  • Install, configure, and test broadband, WLAN, and cellular systems in accordance with engineering design packages

  • Ensure compliance with OEM specifications, DoD STIGs, NIAP, FIPS, and applicable cybersecurity guidelines

  • Coordinate with Network Engineers to optimize system integration, traffic flows, bandwidth usage, and performance

  • Support installation of wireless infrastructure across operational facilities, maintenance hangars, warehouses, munitions areas, and flight line operations areas

Site Surveys and Spectrum Management

  • Conduct predictive, passive, active, and verification wireless site surveys (indoor and outdoor)

  • Document survey results, including RF readings, spectrum analysis, heat maps, interference sources, and channel planning

  • Ensure compliance with AFI 17220 spectrum processes, including SCG data collection, device certification inputs, and safe RF emissions near ordnance, fuels, and personnel

  • Identify and document OSP/ISP constraints, power/grounding requirements, and environmental hazards that affect wireless deployment

Operations, Sustainment, and Troubleshooting

  • Monitor wireless system performance, availability, and security posture using approved NMS tools

  • Diagnose and resolve wireless issues involving RF interference, connectivity, hardware failures, authentication, or configuration conflicts

  • Perform preventive maintenance, firmware updates, vulnerability mitigation, and configuration optimization

  • Support Tier 2/3 wireless troubleshooting as part of shared operational responsibilities with the Base Communications Squadron

Documentation and Compliance

  • Develop and maintain technical documentation including design diagrams, RF heat maps, configuration files, and installation records

  • Ensure wireless systems meet DoD, DAF, STIG, RMF, TEMPEST, and cybersecurity standards

  • Record installation, maintenance, and repair actions for operational continuity and future reference

  • Produce required documentation deliverables, such as WiFi heat maps, wireless installation descriptions, and RF assessments for transition packages

5G/LTE System Engineering

  • Designs and implements LTE and 5G RAN components, including small cells, macro cells, antennas, eNodeB/gNodeB platforms, and associated transport networks.

  • Performs RF engineering tasks for 5G and LTE systems, including waveform analysis, MIMO/Antenna configuration, carrier aggregation, and spectrum allocation.

  • Supports integration of 5G Standalone (SA) and NonStandalone (NSA) architectures into existing enterprise networks.

  • Evaluates and configures 5G core functions such as AMF, SMF, UPF, AUSF, NRF, and interfaces (N1-N4, N6-N14, etc.) for mission needs.

  • Optimizes throughput, coverage, and reliability using drive testing, RF measurements, SINR/RSRP/RSRQ analysis, and spectrum monitoring.

5G/LTE Operations and Testing

  • Installs, configures, and validates LTE and 5G radios, including DAS systems, small cells, and private cellular networks.

  • Performs acceptance testing using tools such as spectrum analyzers, RF scanners, UE testing platforms, and OEM management systems.

  • Conducts testing of new cellular technologies, including network slicing, edge computing capabilities (MEC), and 5G security features before deployment.

  • Troubleshoots cellular service issues involving signaling failures, handover performance, RF interference, mobility challenges, and coreradio integration.

Collaboration and Compliance

  • Works with spectrum management authorities to ensure proper frequency licensing and compliance for LTE and 5G deployments.

  • Ensures 5G/LTE systems comply with DoD/DAF cybersecurity requirements, including STIG, RMF, FIPS, and ZeroTrust Architecture considerations.

Required Qualifications

Education

  • Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline, such as computer science, engineering, information technology, cybersecurity, data science, or related OR

  • High school diploma or associate degree with 7 years performing as a Broadband/Wireless Engineer on large, complex networks.

Experience

  • 5 years of experience with broadband, wireless, or enterprise network engineering.

  • Demonstrated experience in WLAN RF design, enterprise wireless planning, and advanced wireless troubleshooting

  • Experience designing and supporting TCP/IP networks, including switching, routing, QoS, NAC, NMS, and OSP/ISP distribution systems

  • Experience with LTE EPC and 5G Core (5GC) architectures, protocols (S1/X2, NG, N2/N3), and mobility operations

  • Proficiency with RF and cellular tools such as CellAdvisor, TEMS, Nemo, PCTEL scanners, or similar

  • Working knowledge of network slicing, beamforming, MIMO technologies, and private cellular networks (CBRS/OnGo)

Technical Skills

  • Proficient in broadband and wireless technologies, including 802.11 standards, RF engineering, spectrum analysis, and wireless security

  • Strong understanding of network protocols, infrastructure, and enterprise architecture

  • Skilled in MS Office Suite, Teams, and SharePoint

  • Experience with wireless design tools (e.g., Ekahau, AirMagnet) and network performance monitoring systems

  • Familiarity with DoD cybersecurity controls, STIGs, ACAS scanning, and RMF processes

Certifications

  • CCNA, JNCIA, or equivalent

  • CompTIA Security+ (required for DoD 8140 compliance)

  • Additional wireless certifications, such as CWNA or CWDP, are desirable

Preferred Certifications

  • 3GPP 5G/LTE certifications (Nokia, Ericsson, Cisco, Samsung, Verizon, AT&T training)

  • CBRS Certified Professional Installer (CPI)

  • Certified Wireless Specialist - Cellular (CWS, CWSA)

Clearance

  • Active Secret Clearance required

Desired Attributes

  • Excellent analytical and problemsolving skills to diagnose and resolve wireless/system faults quickly and efficiently

  • Strong communication skills for coordination with engineering teams, base communications units, and operational leadership

  • Ability to work in highsecurity, missioncritical environments with strict standards and oversight

  • Detailoriented, with strong documentation and compliance discipline

 About ActioNet

ActioNet is a CMMI-DEV Level 4, CMMI-SVC Level 4, ISO 20000, ISO 27001, ISO 9001, HDI-certified, woman-owned IT solutions provider with 25+ years of stellar performance. Our expertise spans Agile Software Engineering, Cloud Solutions, Cybersecurity, and IT Managed Services.

With a 98% customer retention rate, ActioNet is proud to be named a Top Workplace for 11 consecutive years (2014-2024).Why ActioNet?At ActioNet, our Passion for Quality is at the heart of everything we do:Commitment to Employees: A great place to work with ongoing investment in our people.Commitment to Customers: Driving and sustaining service delivery excellence.Commitment to Community: Giving back and building a better world for future generations.What's in It for You?

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

  • 401(k) Savings Plan

  • Paid Time Off (PTO) & 11 Paid Holidays

  • Life and Disability Insurance

  • Education and Professional Training

  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

  • Employee Recognition and Referral Programs

  • Employee Assistance & Identity Theft Protection

  • Equal Opportunity Statement

ActioNet is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.