1

Rf Test Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (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: • ...

RF Hardware Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Hands-on experience with 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 ...

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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Rf Test Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$45.4K

$130K

$212.4K

How much do rf test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for rf test engineer in Chicago, IL is $129,952.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,600.00 and $148,500.00 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Rf Test Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

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

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

What job categories do people searching Rf Test Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Rf Test Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Rf Test Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,952 per year, or $62.5 per hour.

RF Systems Manufacturing Test Engineer - Innovate & Deliver

Northrop Grumman Corp. (JP)

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

$87.60 - $131.40/hr

Other

Posted 17 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 368 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

Northrop Grumman Corp. (JP) in Rolling Meadows, IL is seeking a Manufacturing Test Engineer to support product testing for Radio Frequency systems. This role involves troubleshooting deliverable hardware and test equipment in a fast-paced and challenging environment.

The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering and have a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience. Responsibilities include test procedure development, collaborating with engineering teams, and continuous improvement initiatives. U.S. Citizenship and an active DoD Security Clearance are required.

Comprehensive benefits are offered, including health plans and professional development opportunities.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

What Northrop Grumman employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Northrop Grumman logo

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