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Senior Principal Rf Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Skyworks

Sr Principal/ Principal RF Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$143K - $286K/yr

Sr Principal/ Principal RF Engineer Posting Start Date: 7/6/26 Job Location(s): Hillsboro, San Jose If you are looking for a challenging and exciting career in the world of technology, then look no ...

CHAOS Industries

Senior Principal RF Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$190K - $260K/yr

CHAOS is seeking a Sr. Principal RF Engineer with deep expertise in RF circuit design to serve as a technical authority for high-reliability RF and microwave electronics used in aerospace and defense ...

Raytheon

Senior Principal RF Engineer

San Jose, CA

The role of the Senior Principal RF subsystem engineer is to design, develop and maintain RF architectures. Architecture development includes requirements, analysis and modelling. RF subsystem ...

Raytheon

Senior Principal RF Engineer

San Diego, CA

The role of the Senior Principal RF subsystem engineer is to design, develop and maintain RF architectures. Architecture development includes requirements, analysis and modelling. RF subsystem ...

Skyworks

Sr Principal/ Principal RF Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$143K - $286K/yr

We are seeking a Principal/Sr Principal RF Engineer who thrives on solving complex design challenges and bringing high-performance wireless solutions from concept to mass production. In this role ...

SpaceX

Principal RF Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$210K - $300K/yr

PRINCIPAL RF ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts. While Starlink is designed for consumer and commercial ...

SpaceX

Principal RF Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$210K - $300K/yr

PRINCIPAL RF ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts. While Starlink is designed for consumer and commercial ...

SpaceX

Principal RF Engineer (Starshield)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$210K - $300K/yr

PRINCIPAL RF ENGINEER (STARSHIELD) Starshield leverages SpaceX's Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts. While Starlink is designed for consumer and commercial ...

LeoLabs, Inc.

Principal RF Engineer

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

As a Principal RF Engineer, you will lead the development of the RF electronics that define the performance of our next-generation radar systems. You will own the most challenging RF design problems ...

LeoLabs, Inc.

Principal RF Engineer

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

As a Principal RF Engineer, you will lead the development of the RF electronics that define the performance of our next-generation radar systems. You will own the most challenging RF design problems ...

Raytheon

Principal RF Engineer

San Jose, CA

The role of the Principal RF subsystem engineer is to design, develop and maintain RF architectures. Architecture development includes requirements, analysis and modelling. RF subsystem engineers ...

Raytheon

Principal RF Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

The role of the Principal RF subsystem engineer is to design, develop and maintain RF architectures. Architecture development includes requirements, analysis and modelling. RF subsystem engineers ...

Raytheon

Principal RF Engineer

San Diego, CA

The role of the Principal RF subsystem engineer is to design, develop and maintain RF architectures. Architecture development includes requirements, analysis and modelling. RF subsystem engineers ...

mercury

Principal RF Engineer

Cypress, CA · On-site

Experience with acting as a senior design engineer and technical architect for complex RF/Microwave product development. * Experience with RF theory and proficiency with RF simulation tools (ADS, AWR ...

Mercury Systems

Principal RF Engineer

Cypress, CA · On-site

Experience with acting as a senior design engineer and technical architect for complex RF/Microwave product development. * Experience with RF theory and proficiency with RF simulation tools (ADS, AWR ...

Mercury Systems

Principal RF Engineer

Cypress, CA · On-site

Experience with acting as a senior design engineer and technical architect for complex RF/Microwave product development. * Experience with RF theory and proficiency with RF simulation tools (ADS, AWR ...

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Senior Principal Rf Engineer information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Principal RF Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Principal RF Engineer, you need deep expertise in RF circuit design, electromagnetic theory, wireless communications, and typically an advanced degree in electrical engineering. Proficiency with RF simulation tools like ADS or HFSS, network analyzers, and industry certifications such as IEEE or FCC compliance are commonly required. Excellent problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills help in guiding teams and collaborating with cross-functional stakeholders. These skills ensure the reliable design and implementation of complex RF systems essential for cutting-edge telecommunications and electronics projects.

What is the difference between Senior Principal Rf Engineer vs RF Systems Engineer?

AspectSenior Principal Rf EngineerRF Systems Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees (BSc, MSc, PhD) in Electrical Engineering or related fields, with extensive RF certificationsUsually holds a bachelor's or master's degree in Electrical Engineering, with some RF certifications
Work EnvironmentFocuses on high-level RF design, system architecture, and leadership in R&D teamsInvolves RF system integration, testing, and troubleshooting within product development teams
Industry UsageCommonly found in telecommunications, aerospace, and defense industriesUsed across wireless communications, consumer electronics, and network infrastructure sectors

The Senior Principal Rf Engineer typically holds more advanced credentials and leads complex RF projects, focusing on system-level design and strategic development. In contrast, RF Systems Engineers often work on implementing and testing RF systems within project teams. Both roles are essential in RF engineering but differ mainly in seniority, scope, and responsibilities.

What are Senior Principal RF Engineers?

Senior Principal RF Engineers are highly experienced professionals who lead the design, development, and optimization of radio frequency (RF) systems and components. They play a critical role in projects involving wireless communications, radar, satellite, and other RF applications by providing technical guidance, setting design standards, and solving complex engineering challenges. These engineers typically oversee teams, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with other departments to ensure successful project delivery. Their expertise helps organizations achieve high performance and reliability in RF systems.

How does a Senior Principal RF Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during the development of new wireless products?

A Senior Principal RF Engineer frequently works alongside hardware designers, software engineers, and product managers to ensure that wireless products meet performance specifications and regulatory requirements. Collaboration often involves participating in design reviews, troubleshooting complex RF issues, and guiding teams through the integration of RF subsystems. Effective communication and leadership skills are essential, as the role often requires translating technical RF concepts for non-specialist stakeholders and mentoring junior engineers. This team-oriented environment helps drive innovation and ensures that the end product is robust and reliable.
What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Rf Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Principal Rf Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Senior Principal Rf Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Senior Principal Rf Engineer job openings:
Senior Principal Rf Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Principal Rf Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.
Sr Principal/ Principal RF Engineer

Sr Principal/ Principal RF Engineer

Skyworks

San Jose, CA • On-site

$143K - $286K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Sr Principal/ Principal RF Engineer
Posting Start Date: 7/6/26
Job Location(s): Hillsboro, San Jose
If you are looking for a challenging and exciting career in the world of technology, then look no further. Skyworks is an innovator of high-performance analog semiconductors whose solutions are powering the wireless networking revolution. Through our broad technology expertise and one of the most extensive product portfolios in the industry, we are Connecting Everyone and Everything, All the Time.
At Skyworks, you will find a fast-paced environment with a strong focus on global collaboration, minimal layers of management, and the freedom to make meaningful contributions in a setting that encourages creative thinking. We are excited about the opportunity to work with you and glad you want to be part of a team of talented individuals who together are changing the way the world communicates.
Requisition ID: 77871
Job Description:
Description
Join a team where cutting-edge RF innovation meets real-world impact. We are seeking a Principal/Sr Principal RF Engineer who thrives on solving complex design challenges and bringing high-performance wireless solutions from concept to mass production. In this role, you will play a pivotal part in shaping next-generation RF transceivers integrated into advanced sub-45nm CMOS SoCs-powering technologies that connect the world.
As a key technical leader, you will drive the end-to-end design of RF and mixed-signal blocks, from architecture and modeling through silicon validation and production. You'll collaborate cross-functionally to push the boundaries of radio performance, power efficiency, and system integration, while mentoring engineers and influencing design strategy. This position is ideal for a hands-on expert with a passion for innovation, a strong production track record in wireless systems such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and a desire to make a lasting impact on cutting-edge semiconductor solutions.
Note: This person can be based in our San Jose, CA or Hillsboro, OR office locations.
Responsibilities
  • Perform or lead all aspects of the implementation, including architecture, modeling, design, simulation and characterization, of RF transceivers to be included on sub-45nm CMOS SOCs.
  • Optimize analog and RF block specifications, collaborating with engineers from other disciplines to meet product requirements for radio performance, power consumption, and system features
  • Invent new approaches if necessary to solve design problems.
  • Model, design and simulate blocks and develop pre- and post-silicon verification suites.
  • Work with layout designers to guide and optimize their implementation of your blocks.
  • Plan and perform post-silicon characterization, troubleshoot fabricated designs and document results
  • Work with production test engineers to develop efficient manufacturing tests.
  • Lead and mentor other block designers

Required Experience and Skills
  • 15+ years (BSEE), 12+ years (MSEE) or 8+ years (Phd) of relevant industry experience
  • Proven track record of designs reaching mass production, preferably for wireless standards such as Bluetooth and WiFi
  • Thorough knowledge of RF theory and mixed-signal concepts and technology
  • Extensive hands-on experience in CMOS RF design at 2.4 and 5GHz, preferably including switched-cap PAs, LNAs and frequency synthesizers
  • Experience with a variety of modeling and simulation tools, including Cadence Spectre/SpectreRF, MATLAB, 3-D simulators (EMX), AMS
  • Experience with analog layout methodologies, parasitic extraction and simulation
  • Experience with programming and scripting languages, e.g. Python, SKILL, MATLAB, C
  • Experience in lab characterization and investigation, with a focus on automated measurements.
  • Experience in applying AI tools to increase productivity in design and characterization
  • Experienced in producing detailed technical specifications, reports and documentation
  • This position requires an individual skilled in making architectural and circuit implementation decisions, informed by industrial experience and academic literature
  • Professional, open and highly self-motivated attitude

#LI-SJ1
The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is currently USD $143,000 - $286,400 per year. Starting base pay will depend on relevant experience and skills, training and education, business needs, market demands, the ultimate job duties and requirements, and work location. Skyworks has different base pay ranges for different work locations in the U.S. Benefits include access to healthcare benefits (including a premium-free medical plan option), a 401(k) plan and company match, an employee stock purchase plan, paid time off (including vacation, sick/wellness, parental leave), among others. Employees are eligible to participate in an incentive plan, and certain roles are also eligible for additional awards, including recognition and stock. These incentives and awards are based on individual and/or company performance.
Skyworks is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Skyworks strives to create an accessible workplace; if you need an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at accommodations@skyworksinc.com.
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About Skyworks

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are empowering the wireless networking revolution, connecting people, places and things around the world. As the demand for ubiquitous, “always-on” connectivity increasingly expands, our innovative, high performance analog semiconductors are enabling breakthrough communication platforms from global industry leaders – changing the way we live, work, play and learn. Through our broad technology expertise and one of the most extensive product portfolios in the industry, we are Connecting Everyone and Everything, All the Time.

Industry

Construction

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Buffalo, NY, US

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