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Rf Test Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

RF Hardware Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

... RF test equipment and debugging • At least 5 years of experience in the design of RF circuits and systems • BS/MS in Electrical/RF Engineering or equivalent experience Bonus Points: • ...

ATTENTION Experience using RF test equipment, including Network and Spectrum Analyzers, Signal ... This position is tailored for an adept Electrical Engineer with a minimum of 2 years of experience ...

... RF principles. • Knowledge of EMC principles related to PCB layout, component selection and ... test engineering and quality assurance. WE VALUE • Bachelor's degree or higher in Electrical ...

As an Advanced EMC Test Engineer here at Honeywell, you will play a pivotal role in enhancing the ... Deep understanding of electromagnetic theory, circuit fundamentals, and RF principles. Knowledge of ...

As an Advanced EMC Test Engineer here at Honeywell, you will play a pivotal role in enhancing the ... Deep understanding of electromagnetic theory, circuit fundamentals, and RF principles. Knowledge of ...

As an Electrical Engineer II, you will be instrumental in advancing our RF technologies and ... Familiarity with RF test equipment, including Network and Spectrum Analyzers, Signal Generators ...

Develop RF test plans and perform lab validation using VNAs, spectrum analyzers, and signal ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field * 8+ years of experience ...

Showing results 41-60

Rf Test Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$42.6K

$122.1K

$199.6K

How much do rf test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for rf test engineer in Illinois is $122,145.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,400.00 and $139,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an RF test engineer?

As an RF test engineer, you assess the functionality of devices that transmit or receive radio frequencies in manufacturing or research and development environments. Your job duties include using spectrum analyzers, vector network analyzers, signal generators, battery emulators, and other testing equipment, debugging issues that arise, and analyzing test data. A career as an RF test engineer requires you have some formal qualifications and post-secondary education, generally a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and experience with test instrumentation and equipment. You need strong math skills and familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD), Unix, MatLab, LabView, and C++ programming.

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

To thrive as an RF Test Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, RF principles, and experience with test procedures for wireless communication devices. Familiarity with RF test equipment such as spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, and signal generators, as well as knowledge of relevant certifications like FCC or ETSI compliance, is crucial. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure the accuracy, reliability, and regulatory compliance of RF products in highly technical environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by RF test engineers when troubleshooting signal integrity issues, and how can these be addressed?

RF Test Engineers often encounter challenges related to signal integrity, such as interference, noise, or unexpected losses in transmission. These issues can be complex due to the high frequencies involved and the sensitivity of RF circuits. To address them, engineers frequently use advanced diagnostic tools like spectrum analyzers and network analyzers, work closely with design and hardware teams, and apply methodical troubleshooting techniques. Collaboration and continuous learning are key, as technology and testing standards evolve rapidly in this field.

What is the difference between Rf Test Engineer vs RF Design Engineer?

AspectRf Test EngineerRF Design Engineer
Primary FocusTesting and validating RF components and systemsDesigning RF circuits and systems
Required SkillsTesting procedures, measurement tools, RF testing certificationsCircuit design, simulation, RF theory
Work EnvironmentTesting labs, production environmentsDesign labs, R&D departments
Common CertificationsRF testing certifications, FCC certificationsRF design certifications, EE degrees

While both roles involve RF technology, Rf Test Engineers focus on testing and validating RF components, ensuring quality and compliance. RF Design Engineers are responsible for creating and developing RF circuits and systems. Both roles require strong RF knowledge, but their daily tasks and objectives differ significantly.

Is RF test engineering in demand?

RF test engineering is in demand due to the growth of wireless communication, 5G technology, and IoT devices. Professionals with skills in RF measurement, signal analysis, and experience with test equipment like network analyzers are sought after in electronics and telecommunications industries.

What does an RF test engineer do?

An RF test engineer designs, develops, and performs tests on radio frequency devices and systems to ensure they meet performance standards. They use specialized equipment like network analyzers and oscilloscopes, analyze test data, and troubleshoot issues to improve product quality and compliance with industry regulations.

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

The most popular types of Rf Test Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

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

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

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Rf Test Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Rf Test Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Rf Test Engineer jobs in IL?

For Rf Test Engineer jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Rf Test Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,145 per year, or $58.7 per hour.

Sr. Principal Manufacturing Test Engineer (RF Systems)

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 368 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: NoCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is a trusted provider of mission-enabling solutions for global security. We have awide portfolio of secure, affordable, integrated, and multi-domain systems and technologies. Our differentiated battlemanagement and cyber solutions deliver timely, mission-enabling information and provide superior situational awarenessand understanding to protect the U.S. and its global allies.

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems sector is looking for a Sr. Principal Engineer, Electronics (TPM, MSE) - Manufacturing Test Engineering (RF Systems) located on-site in Rolling Meadows, IL who will lead efforts needed in standing up, modifying and/or sustaining testing capability for aerial, military-grade, or space-grade Electronic Warfare Systems and Subsystems

Manufacturing Engineers thrive in an environment of daily unique challenges and close proximity to products. Engineers who do well in this setting enjoy seeing their work perform in a test or a product, collaborate and communicate well across functions, and are innovative problem solvers. Best suited to this role are those who enjoy learning and bring a sense of urgency and energy to their tasks.

What you will get to do:

As a Technical Leader, this individual will be responsible for:

  • Shaping requirements for Acceptance Testing and Environmental Screening during prime hardware design phase. [Positioning the org for success by providing needed technical involvement prior to, or at the start of manufacturing / productionization efforts]
  • Leading & driving to on schedule and on budget completion of Test capability stand up, modification or sustainment. This includes leading & driving Test equipment and/or test fixture design efforts, software coding and integration efforts, other manufacturing engineering relevant efforts. [Demonstrating technical leadership to ensure NRE activities progress at positive SPI & CPI]
  • Reporting progress at multiple levels of leadership. [Leading Executive level presentations]
  • Performing Earned Value to track progress and put mitigation in place to address schedule or cost risks. [CAM]
  • Leading key internal or customer events such as (but not limited to) Manufacturing Readiness Reviews.

High-level ethical standards, strong decision-making skills, and building a strong professional relationship / leading cross functional collaborative effort with other disciplines are essential.

Behavioral Traits sought out:

  • The Manufacturing Engineers are expected to be problem solvers with the ability to provide results that are innovative and often achieved through collaboration across functional groups.
  • We seek individuals with proven excellence in the following 6 core competencies:

a) Takes high levels of Self-accountability and Ownership

b) Acts with Speed

c) Responds to Challenges with Resilience

d) Leads with Courage

e) Sets vision for the assigned products

f) Builds a High Performing Team

This position is contingent upon funding/contract award.

Basic Qualifications for the Sr. Principal Manufacturing Test Engineer (RF Systems):

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Computer Engineering, Aerospace or related STEM field with a minimum of 8 years of relevant work experience; OR a Master's in equivalent fields with a minimum of 6 years of relevant work experience.
  • Experience leading medium-scale technical projects in Electronics and/or Aerospace industry with limited assistance.
  • Experience in design of test equipment or test fixture or prime (sell-off) hardware.
  • Experience using C#, C++, Java, C or related programming language.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain Secret security clearance.
  • US Citizenship required.

Preferred Qualifications for the Sr. Principal Manufacturing Test Engineer (RF Systems):

  • Exprience with Electronic Warfare System or sub-system (especially with RF products).
  • Experience as IPT, Manufacturing Systems Engineer, Technical Project Manager or discipline level technical leadership.
  • Experience in leading relevant portion of internal or customer milestone events (such as Preliminary or Critical Design Review events - PDR/CDR, Manufacturing or Technology Readiness Reviews - MRR or TRR, Non-Advocate Reviews - NAR).
  • CAM certification.
  • Active DoD Security Clearance.

What We Can Offer You:

Northrop Grumman provides a comprehensive benefits package and a work environment that encourages your growth and supports the mutual success of our people and our company. Northrop Grumman benefits give you the flexibility and control to choose the benefits that make the most sense for you and your family.

Your benefits will include the following: Health Plan, Savings Plan, Paid Time Off, and Additional Benefits, including Education Assistance, Training and Development, 9/80 Work Schedule (where available), and much more!

#MPR

Primary Level Salary Range: $135,800.00 - $203,600.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

What Northrop Grumman employees say

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939