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Senior Principal Rf Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Principal RF Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$160K - $200K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description The RF Payload Engineer will support advanced space systems with a focus on RF payload development, integration, and production testing. This role contributes to the ...

SAIC

Principal RF Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description The RF Payload Engineer will support advanced space systems with a focus on RF payload development, integration, and production testing. This role contributes to the ...

Saic

Principal RF Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160 - $200/hr

Position Summary The RF Payload Engineer will support advanced space systems with a focus on RF payload development, integration, and production testing. This role contributes to the development ...

SAIC

Principal RF Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Description The RF Payload Engineer will support advanced space systems with a focus on RF payload development, integration, and production testing. This role contributes to the development ...

Spire

Software Engineer - RFGL Systems

Vienna, VA · Hybrid

$90K - $130K/yr

... with our Principal RF Engineer and research team). Instead, you will own the operational side ... Collaborate closely with the senior software engineer, RF domain experts, and cross-functional ...

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Senior Principal Rf Engineer information

What is a senior principal RF engineer?

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 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 the most commonly searched types of Principal Rf Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Principal Rf Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Senior Principal Rf Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Senior Principal Rf Engineer job openings:

Senior Principal Rf Engineer jobs near you

Principal RF Payload Engineer

SAIC

Chantilly, VA

$160K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 224 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: 2614440

Location: Chantilly, VA, US

Date Posted: 2026-07-10

Category: Engineering and Sciences

Subcategory: Systems Engineer

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: Yes - 10% of the time

Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: TS/SCI with Poly

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description

The RF Payload Engineer will support advanced space systems with a focus on RF payload development, integration, and production testing. This role contributes to the development, verification, and sustainment of RF payload hardware for space-based intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and communications missions.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead and execute RF payload development including architecture definition, component selection, and subsystem integration.
  • Develop and implement production-level RF payload testing including functional, performance, and environmental test plans.
  • Perform RF link analysis, payload signal chain validation, and troubleshooting at system and component levels.
  • Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams on payload interfaces and mission requirements.
  • Support hardware manufacturing readiness, test procedure development, and flight certification processes.
  • Generate engineering documentation, test reports, technical briefings, and configuration-controlled artifacts.
  • Participate in design reviews, technical interchange meetings, and customer working groups.
  • Provide technical insight during vendor management and risk assessments.

Qualifications

  • Bachelors and nine (9) years or more experience; Masters and seven (7) years or more experience.
  • 8–12+ years of experience in RF payloads, RF systems, or radar payload development.
  • Expertise in RF hardware design, payload architectures, and test methodologies.
  • Experience with RF test equipment including VNAs, spectrum analyzers, and signal generators.
  • Must have a TS/SCI, and be willing to obtain a poly.

Target salary range: $160,001 - $200,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

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