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Rf Test Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary As a RF Systems Test Engineer at Lynk, you will wear many hats in the world of RF hardware/electronics and software/firmware. The immediate role of the RF Systems Test Engineer will be to ...

The RF Test Technician will conduct RF measurements and mechanical assembly of semiconductor ... May assist engineers with new design and development activities including prototyping and first ...

RF Design and Installation: • Design, install, and test RF systems, including SATCOM components ... Engineering or similar field • RF test experience with Keysight PNA-X and Fieldfox, including ...

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Rf Test Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$49.8K

$142.8K

$233.3K

How much do rf test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for rf test engineer in Washington is $142,763.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,000.00 and $163,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 RF Test Engineers?

RF Test Engineers are professionals who design, implement, and conduct tests on radio frequency (RF) components and systems, such as antennas, transmitters, and receivers. They ensure that these devices meet technical specifications and regulatory requirements by using specialized test equipment. Their responsibilities often include troubleshooting, analyzing data, and collaborating with design teams to improve product performance. These engineers work across industries like telecommunications, aerospace, and consumer electronics.

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.

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

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.
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Infographic showing various Rf Test Engineer job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,763 per year, or $68.6 per hour.

Senior Staff Semiconductor RF Test Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Linthicum, MD

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 359 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

87th of 537 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be 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.

The Northrop Grumman Microelectronics Center (NGMC) of Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is seeking an exceptionally talented, motivated, and creative Senior Staff Semiconductor RF Test Engineer for our Advanced Technology Lab (ATL) located outside of Baltimore, Maryland - where we design, manufacture, and test semiconductor products for internal and commercial production customers as well as emerging technology programs.

Northrop Grumman's ATL semiconductor foundry is a unique capability supporting a range of production microelectronic devices (Silicon, Silicon Germanium, Gallium Arsenide, Gallium Nitride, Silicon Carbide, Carbon Nanotubes) and providing leading-edge technology development in superconducting electronics. Our devices enable several Northrop Grumman's ground-based radars, avionic radars, and space systems. Join us for the chance to work with an amazing, experienced, and talented team while helping serve your country. Enjoy the opportunity to grow and learn with a variety of challenging projects in R&D, ongoing long-term programs, and new programs targeting future military platforms. Our multidisciplinary foundry team enables activities from development to sustainment process engineering. ATL is responsible for all aspects of semiconductor technology including design, mask making, wafer fabrication, test, and assembly. The candidate must be a strong team participant, have excellent communication skills, and be resourceful and multitalented. A strong understanding of semiconductor technology and microelectronic manufacturing test methodologies is essential.

The Senior Staff Semiconductor RF Test Engineer will have a technical lead/test architect role in the development and execution of mixed-signal/RF IC device test solutions for products in various fab technologies and levels of integrations. The individual will be responsible for understanding new product test requirements, architecting new test solutions to meet such requirements, developing necessary software and hardware components, and performing verification and validation work required for engineering and production test release. Senior Staff Semiconductor RF Test Engineer is expected to lead the development of innovations and technologies in manufacturing IC test solutions to help the ATL test team solve difficult, and often unique, test problems. Additional responsibilities include but are not limited to, team/peer training and certification, participation in program discussions for test planning, test cost & schedule development, and assisting management with building resource and test strategy development. The candidate must exhibit excellent verbal and written communication skills.

#NGATL

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or closely related field with 14 years of related experience; Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering or closely related field with 12 years of experience; PhD in Electrical Engineering or closely related field with 9 years of experience

  • Direct semiconductor test software and hardware development experience

  • Prior test lead or test architect experience, working on developing production test solutions

  • Direct experience in leading a team of test or product engineers, responsible for talent development and training

  • Hands-on hardware skills including probe card and package part fixture/DIB design & coordinating layout & assembly

  • Software skills in a modern language such as C#, Python, C++ or Java

  • U.S. Citizenship required.

  • The ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance is required


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience or proof of innovative test solution development and implementation (IP disclosures/patents)

  • Knowledge of various fab technologies/processes, including deep node silicon and III-V devices

  • Experience developing test solutions for MMICs and RFICs at various frequency ranges and power levels, High Power RF Amplifiers, and Low Noise Amplifiers

  • Direct experience in preparing and presenting presentations to cross-functional teams and senior executives

  • Active participation & experience in presenting at various technical conferences

#NGMCFab

Primary Level Salary Range: $184,100.00 - $276,100.00The 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.

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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