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Rf System Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AeroVironment, Inc.

RF System Architect

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$154K - $247K/yr

Architect scalable, modular, and high-performance digital phased array systems spanning RF, digital, FPGA, mixed-signal, and mechanical constraints. * Shape Future Space Missions: Act as the primary ...

AeroVironment

RF System Architect

Albuquerque, NM

$154K - $247K/yr

Architect scalable, modular, and high-performance digital phased array systems spanning RF, digital, FPGA, mixed-signal, and mechanical constraints. * Shape Future Space Missions: Act as the primary ...

CesiumAstro

RF Systems Architect

Westminster, CO · On-site

$218K - $266K/yr

Define and lead system architecture for advanced ISR RF payloads, including radar and RF sensing systems for space and airborne platforms. * Translate mission objectives into end-to-end RF payload ...

CesiumAstro

RF Systems Architect

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$228K - $279K/yr

Define and lead system architecture for advanced ISR RF payloads, including radar and RF sensing systems for space and airborne platforms. * Translate mission objectives into end-to-end RF payload ...

CesiumAstro

RF Systems Architect

Westminster, CO · On-site

$218K - $266K/yr

Define and lead system architecture for advanced ISR RF payloads, including radar and RF sensing systems for space and airborne platforms. * Translate mission objectives into end-to-end RF payload ...

CesiumAstro

RF Systems Architect

Austin, TX

Define and lead system architecture for advanced ISR RF payloads, including radar and RF sensing systems for space and airborne platforms. * Translate mission objectives into end-to-end RF payload ...

CesiumAstro

RF Systems Architect

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$228K - $279K/yr

Define and lead system architecture for advanced ISR RF payloads, including radar and RF sensing systems for space and airborne platforms. * Translate mission objectives into end-to-end RF payload ...

CesiumAstro

RF Systems Architect

Austin, TX · On-site

Define and lead system architecture for advanced ISR RF payloads, including radar and RF sensing systems for space and airborne platforms. * Translate mission objectives into end-to-end RF payload ...

CesiumAstro

RF Systems Architect

Westminster, CO · On-site

$218K - $266K/yr

Define and lead system architecture for advanced ISR RF payloads, including radar and RF sensing systems for space and airborne platforms. * Translate mission objectives into end-to-end RF payload ...

CesiumAstro

RF Systems Architect

Austin, TX

Define and lead system architecture for advanced ISR RF payloads, including radar and RF sensing systems for space and airborne platforms. * Translate mission objectives into end-to-end RF payload ...

CesiumAstro

RF Systems Architect

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$228K - $279K/yr

Define and lead system architecture for advanced ISR RF payloads, including radar and RF sensing systems for space and airborne platforms. * Translate mission objectives into end-to-end RF payload ...

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Rf System Architect information

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$86.5K

$224.3K

$243.5K

How much do rf system architect jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for rf system architect in the United States is $224,334.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $243,000.00 and $243,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an RF System Architect?

RF System Architects are professionals responsible for designing and overseeing the architecture of radio frequency (RF) systems used in wireless communication devices, radar, satellite, and other applications. They define system requirements, select appropriate technologies, and ensure that all subsystems work together efficiently to meet performance goals. Their role involves collaborating with hardware and software teams, performing simulations, and resolving technical challenges related to RF signal integrity, interference, and compliance. RF System Architects play a critical part in ensuring the reliability and efficiency of wireless communication systems.

What are the typical collaboration points between an RF System Architect and other engineering teams during a project lifecycle?

An RF System Architect regularly collaborates with hardware, firmware, and software engineering teams to ensure system requirements are met throughout the project lifecycle. This involves early-stage discussions to define system specifications, ongoing meetings to address integration challenges, and joint troubleshooting during testing phases. Effective communication is crucial, as the architect must translate system-level goals into actionable tasks for specialized teams while ensuring all subsystems work cohesively. Cross-functional teamwork often extends to working alongside project managers and product teams to align technical solutions with business objectives.

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

To thrive as an RF System Architect, you need deep knowledge of RF engineering principles, wireless communication standards, and a relevant degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with simulation tools like HFSS or CST, proficiency in circuit design software, and certifications such as IEEE Wireless Communication are often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and conveying complex technical concepts. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure robust design, integration, and optimization of RF systems in dynamic technology environments.

What is the difference between Rf System Architect vs Rf Engineer?

AspectRf System ArchitectRf Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, RF or CommunicationsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, RF or Communications
Work EnvironmentDesign and oversee RF system architecture, collaborate with cross-functional teamsImplement, test, and troubleshoot RF systems and components
Industry UsageUsed in system-level design, product development, and project planningFocused on testing, deployment, and maintenance of RF systems

The Rf System Architect primarily designs and oversees RF system architecture, ensuring integration and performance at a system level. In contrast, the Rf Engineer focuses on the hands-on implementation, testing, and troubleshooting of RF components. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work within the same industry, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What are popular job titles related to Rf System Architect jobs?

For Rf System Architect jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Rf System Architect job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $224,334 per year, or $107.9 per hour.

RF System Architect

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

AeroVironment, Inc.
Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about AeroVironment, Inc.external

$154K - $247K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago

AeroVironment rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Worker Type
Regular
Job Description
AV, Inc. is seeking a visionary RF Solution Architect to serve as the ultimate technical authority for our next-generation Space RF and Digital Phased Array (DPA) product lines.
If you are a recognized Subject Matter Expert in active electronically scanned arrays (AESA), satellite communications (SATCOM), or space-grade RF architectures, this is your opportunity to define the technology roadmap for future space missions. You will act as the technical bridge between customer mission requirements, multi-disciplinary engineering teams, and strategic IRAD investments.
What You Will Do (Key Responsibilities)
  • Define the Technical Vision: Architect scalable, modular, and high-performance digital phased array systems spanning RF, digital, FPGA, mixed-signal, and mechanical constraints.
  • Shape Future Space Missions: Act as the primary technical interface to defense and commercial space customers, converting operational CONOPS (Radar, EW, SATCOM) into elegant hardware/software solutions.
  • Drive Strategic IRAD: Guide internal research and development budgets to ensure our technology stays years ahead of the competition.
  • Lead Captures & Proposals: Own the technical architecture and write winning technical volumes for high-priority space program bids.
  • Ensure Mission Success: Partner with Product Line Chief Engineers to guide our designs through simulation, prototyping, system-level calibration, and flight-ready integration.
  • Champion Modern Standards: Drive the implementation of Modular Open Systems Approaches (MOSA) and Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) across the Space RF division.

What We Are Looking For (Required Qualifications)
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • Phased Array Domain Expertise: 12+ years of engineering experience with a heavy focus on digital phased array architectures, RF front-ends, and high-speed mixed-signal interfaces (such as RFSoCs, ADCs/DACs).
  • Space-Grade Architecture Experience: Proven track record architecting RF systems designed for low Earth orbit (LEO), GEO, or tactical space environments.
  • Bid & Proposal Experience: Demonstrated success leading technical captures, writing technical volumes, and presenting complex architectures to DoD or commercial space customers.
  • Systems Trade-Off Mastery: Deep understanding of the trade spaces governing SWaP-C, beamforming networks, antenna array physics, thermal management, and digital signal processing (DSP).
  • Security Clearance: Must be a US Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.

Preferred / Differentiating Qualifications
  • Active Secret or Top Secret/SCI clearance.
  • Master's or PhD in Electrical Engineering with an RF/Electromagnetics focus.
  • Experience implementing MOSA architectures (e.g., SOSA, OpenVPX).
  • Hands-on familiarity with MATLAB, Python, SystemVue, or HFSS for modeling phased array antenna patterns and system-level performance.
  • Proven history of mentoring senior engineering staff and driving cross-functional alignment across RF, FPGA, Software, and Mechanical disciplines.

Clearance Level
TS/SCI
The salary range for this role is:
$154,500 - $247,250
AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills.
ITAR Requirement:
This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations ("ITAR") and/or the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR"). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment's determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment's business requirements. A "U.S. person" according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.
Benefits: AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits.
We also encourage you to review our company website at http://www.avinc.com to learn more about us.
Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.
About AV:
AV isn't for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. The best of the best.
We don't just build defense technology-we redefine what's possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve.
Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian-but we're not building history, we're building what's next.
If you're ready to build technology that matters-with speed, scale, and purpose-there's no better place to do it than AV.
We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status.
ITAR
U.S. Citizenship is required. Secret or Top Secret clearance, or the ability obtain a clearance is desired.

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