1

Rf Software Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Signals Software Engineer LOCATION Tysons, VA 22182 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this ... Experience with RF signal processing * Familiarity with machine learning applications in signal ...

Signals Software Engineer

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Signals Software Engineer LOCATION Reston, VA 20190 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this ... Experience with RF signal processing * Familiarity with machine learning applications in signal ...

Signals Software Engineer LOCATION Reston, VA 20190 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this ... Experience with RF signal processing * Familiarity with machine learning applications in signal ...

Signals Software Engineer LOCATION Chantilly, VA 20151 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this ... Experience with RF signal processing * Familiarity with machine learning applications in signal ...

Real-Time Software Engineer

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$86K - $198K/yr

Your expertise in RF digital signal processing software development will be critical to integrate ... This is a hands-on engineering role focused on real-time software, including embedded systems ...

Real-Time Software Engineer

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$86K - $198K/yr

Real-Time Software Engineer The Opportunity: Are you excited to apply RF theory to critical ... Your expertise in RF digital signal processing software development will be critical to integrate ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Rf Software Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$63K

$146.3K

$203.7K

How much do rf software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for rf software engineer in Virginia is $146,258.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,000.00 and $171,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an RF software engineer?

RF Software Engineers are professionals who develop, test, and optimize software that interacts with radio frequency (RF) hardware and systems. They work on technologies such as wireless communications, radar, satellite systems, and IoT devices, ensuring that software controls and manages RF signals effectively. Their responsibilities often include designing algorithms for signal processing, integrating software with hardware, and troubleshooting RF performance issues. They typically have expertise in both software engineering and RF principles, and may work closely with hardware engineers to create robust wireless solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an RF software engineer?

To thrive as an RF Software Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, strong programming abilities (often in C/C++ or MATLAB), and a thorough understanding of radio frequency theory. Familiarity with RF simulation tools (like ADS or HFSS), test equipment, and possibly certifications such as a Professional Engineer (PE) license can be highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating on complex projects and translating technical requirements. These skills are crucial for developing reliable RF systems, troubleshooting issues efficiently, and ensuring successful integration and performance of wireless technologies.

What are some common challenges RF software engineers face when integrating software with hardware components?

RF Software Engineers often encounter challenges ensuring smooth communication between software systems and RF hardware, such as signal integrity issues, timing mismatches, and hardware-software compatibility. Debugging these issues requires close collaboration with hardware engineers and a deep understanding of both RF principles and embedded software. Additionally, working within tight performance constraints and regulatory requirements can add complexity to the integration process. Overcoming these challenges is a key part of the role and offers valuable opportunities for problem-solving and professional growth.

What is the difference between Rf Software Engineer vs Rf Hardware Engineer?

AspectRf Software EngineerRf Hardware Engineer
Primary FocusDeveloping and testing software for RF systemsDesigning and testing RF hardware components
Required SkillsProgramming, RF protocols, software developmentCircuit design, RF hardware, soldering
Work EnvironmentSoftware labs, development teamsHardware labs, manufacturing facilities
Common CertificationsNone specific, often software certificationsRF engineering certifications (e.g., FCC, CE)

Rf Software Engineers focus on developing software solutions for RF systems, while Rf Hardware Engineers design and test RF hardware components. Both roles are essential in RF product development but differ in their technical focus and work environment.

Is RF software engineering in demand?

RF software engineering is in high demand due to the growth of wireless communication, 5G networks, and IoT devices. Professionals with skills in signal processing, embedded systems, and RF testing tools are sought after across telecommunications, defense, and aerospace industries.

What job categories do people searching Rf Software Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Rf Software Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Rf Software Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $146,258 per year, or $70.3 per hour.

RF Software Engineer

Riverside Research Institute

Fairfax, VA โ€ข On-site

$125 - $175/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Riverside Overview

Riverside Research is an independent National Security Nonprofit dedicated to research and development in the national interest. We provide high-end technical services, research and development, and prototype solutions to some of the countryโ€™s most challenging technical problems.

All Riverside Research opportunities require U.S. Citizenship.

Position Overview

Riverside Research is seeking a skilled and motivated RF Software Research Engineer to join our Spectrum Warfare Innovation (SWI) group. SWI combines state-of-the-art research with quick reaction prototyping to deliver modernized, tactical radio frequency (RF) and electronic warfare (EW) capability to national security customers.

In this role, you will lead and execute implementation of cuttingโ€‘edge RF algorithms and software systems, and support prototype integration. As a lead technical contributor, you will be responsible for ensuring transition of early feasibility code to wellโ€‘architected software products through application of modern software development practices. The ideal candidate will have experience working in dynamic R&D environments, from ideation through execution. The candidate should have a track record of outsideโ€‘theโ€‘box problemโ€‘solving, a spirit for interdisciplinary collaboration, and the ability to clearly document and articulate technical designs.

The candidate should have expertise in software development and experience with at least one of the following technical application areas:

  • RF signal processing (radar and/or communications)
  • RF modeling and simulation
  • RF autonomy / cognitive tactical systems
  • Sensor algorithm development
  • Implementation on low size, weight, and power devices

This position is located at our Fairfax, VA office.

Responsibilities
  • Design, build, test, deploy, and maintain software systems and applications that support business objectives. Contribute across the full engineering lifecycleโ€”creating and improving products, services, standards, and proceduresโ€”while working independently with ownership of daily priorities and potential responsibility for guiding team members
  • Design software architecture; write, test, and optimize code; fix bugs; enhance performance; and develop new features based on user and business needs.
  • Collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary teams to develop integrated systems
  • Document and communicate design decisions, technical challenges, and progress to internal stakeholders.
  • Assists in establishing and maintaining standards and best practices for software development
  • Other duties as assigned
Qualifications

Required Qualifications

  • Must be a US Citizen
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI Security Clearance
  • Education and Experience:
    • Bachelor's in STEM field with 5+ years of experience, or
    • Master's in STEM field with 3+ years of experience, or
    • PhD in STEM field.
  • Relevant years of experience may be substituted in lieu of a degree
  • Expertise in one of the following areas:
    • DSP architecture
    • Embedded software development
    • RF signal processing
    • RF modeling and simulation
  • Proficient with programming languages, e.g. C/C++ and/or Python
  • Proficient with software version control (Git) and Continuous Integration / Continuous Development (CI/CD) principles.
  • Proficient with typical digital laboratory equipment (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers)
  • Self-driven with strong analytic, inferencing, critical thinking, and creative problemโ€‘solving skills
  • Strong written and verbal communications skills
  • Ability to operate independently with limited supervision and feedback
  • Ability to establish a solid working relationship with technical staff and peers in the group and across Riverside Research.
  • Must be able to lift nominal weights, work on uneven terrain, stand for long hours, and/or similar for working in the laboratory and/or field.
  • Able to travel (<10 %, as need arises)

Desired Qualifications

  • Existing/prior security clearance
  • Development experience with DoW or IC programs
  • Degree in computer engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, physics or similar with focus in RF, algorithms, or software development
  • Demonstrated experience designing and implementing embedded algorithm solutions for defense customers
  • Experience with AI code assist
  • Desire to learn technical skills alongside how the business operates
Global Comp

$125,000 - $175,000 This represents the typical compensation range for this position based on experience, location and other factors.

Closing Statement

Riverside Research Institute is a not-for-profit, technology-oriented defense company, where service to our customers and support of our staff is our overall mission. Riverside is an affirmative action-equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding recruitment and hiring. Riverside offers comprehensive compensation and benefit packages to our employees. Riverside bases its employment decisions solely on technical experience, qualifications and other jobโ€‘related criteria related to our organizational purpose as a notโ€‘forโ€‘profit company, and without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, veteranโ€™s status or any other status legally protected by applicable federal, state, and local law.

#J-18808-Ljbffr