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Senior Rf Design Engineer Jobs in Herndon, VA (NOW HIRING)

Umbra

Senior Antenna & RF Design Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

About the Job We are seeking an experienced RF Microwave Design Engineer with deep expertise in antenna systems and passive microwave hardware to support the development of next‑generation ...

Umbra

Senior Antenna & RF Design Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

About the Job We are seeking an experienced RF Microwave Design Engineer with deep expertise in antenna systems and passive microwave hardware to support the development of next-generation spaceborne ...

Umbra

Senior Antenna & RF Design Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

About the Job We are seeking an experienced RF Microwave Design Engineer with deep expertise in antenna systems and passive microwave hardware to support the development of next-generation spaceborne ...

CACI International, Inc.

Senior RF Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$106K - $146K/yr

As a Senior RF Engineer specializing in Beamformer Design, you will lead the development and analysis of advanced beamforming architectures and phased array systems for both large and small-scale ...

CACI International Inc.

Senior RF Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$120.80 - $265.80/hr

As a Senior RF Engineer specializing in Beamformer Design, you will lead the development and analysis of advanced beamforming architectures and phased array systems for both large and small-scale ...

Helsing

Senior RF Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

As an RF Engineer for Communications and Networking, you will work in one of the most contested ... You will design, develop, and deploy advanced datalink systems for UAS-to-ground and UAS-to-UAS ...

Helsing

Senior RF Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

As an RF Engineer for Communications and Networking, you will work in one of the most contested ... You will design, develop, and deploy advanced datalink systems for UAS-to-ground and UAS-to-UAS ...

Mu-Del Electronics

Be Seen First

Electrical Engineer (RF Test Engineer)

Manassas, VA · On-site

Mu-Del Electronics in looking for an RF/Microwave engineer for product design & development and manufacturing of millimeter-wave active/passive components/sub-systems covering a wide frequency ...

Lynk

Senior RF/Electrical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$110K - $143K/yr

Job Summary As a Senior RF/Electrical Engineer at Lynk, you will be responsible for wearing many ... You will be responsible for the analysis, design, implementation, optimization and enhancement of ...

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All JobsRf Design Engineer JobsSenior Rf Design Engineer JobsSenior Rf Design Engineer Jobs in Herndon, VA

Senior Rf Design Engineer information

See Herndon, VA salary details

$72.5K

$138.4K

$200.5K

How much do senior rf design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior rf design engineer in Herndon, VA is $138,390.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,500.00 and $162,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior RF design engineer?

Senior RF Design Engineers are experienced professionals who design, develop, and optimize radio frequency (RF) circuits and systems used in communication devices, radar, wireless networks, and other applications. They lead projects, solve complex technical issues, and often mentor junior engineers. Their work typically involves simulation, prototyping, testing, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. These engineers play a critical role in advancing wireless technology and supporting reliable, high-performance electronics.

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

AspectSenior RF Design EngineerRF Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, specialized in RF design, often with certifications like FCC or IEEEBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field, with some certifications optional
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, R&D departments, product development teamsField testing, system integration, troubleshooting in various environments
ResponsibilitiesLeading RF circuit design, simulation, and optimization; mentoring junior engineersImplementing RF systems, testing, and troubleshooting existing designs

The main difference is that Senior RF Design Engineers focus on advanced design, simulation, and leadership in RF projects, while RF Engineers typically handle implementation, testing, and troubleshooting. Senior roles require more experience and often involve guiding projects and teams.

What are the main challenges faced by senior RF design engineers during the product development cycle?

Senior RF Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing performance with cost and manufacturability, mitigating interference and signal integrity issues, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. They may also need to troubleshoot complex integration problems when working with cross-functional teams in hardware, software, and testing. Staying updated with evolving technologies and adapting designs to meet tight project timelines are also common aspects of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior RF design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior RF Design Engineer, you need advanced knowledge of RF circuit design, electromagnetic theory, and a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Expertise in using simulation tools such as ADS, HFSS, or CST, as well as familiarity with PCB layout and test equipment, is typically required. Strong problem-solving, project management, and communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These skills are crucial for developing high-performance RF systems, meeting project deadlines, and effectively collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.
What cities near Herndon, VA are hiring for Senior Rf Design Engineer jobs? Cities near Herndon, VA with the most Senior Rf Design Engineer job openings:
Senior Rf Design Engineer jobs near you

Senior RF Design Engineer (FPGA)

Quartermaster AI Inc

Arlington, VA • On-site

$190K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

About Us:
At Quartermaster AI, we believe the ocean should be a safe and sustainably managed resource for all. By leveraging cutting-edge AI, distributed sensing, and resilient data systems, we unlock capabilities that were only recently impossible. Our distributed open-ocean systems enable vessels and coastal infrastructure to sense, compute, and communicate, enhancing maritime domain awareness for those who need it most.
Job Description:
We are seeking an RF specialist Electrical Engineer to design and develop a custom Software Defined Radio (SDR) based subsystem for the Smartmast platform, our edge-deployed maritime sensing system. You will lead the electrical design of our SDR hardware stack, including schematic development, RF layout, PCB fabrication, integration with compute hardware, COTS part selection, and field validation. This is a hands-on, cross-disciplinary role requiring deep understanding of RF signal chains, mixed-signal design, EMI mitigation, and high-speed digital interfaces.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Design and thoroughly document the electrical architecture for our SDR-based modules, including custom or COTS SDRs, RF front-end, clocking, ADC/DAC interfaces, and host connectivity.
  • Develop schematics and high-frequency PCB layouts optimized for signal integrity, low noise, and compact form factor in marine environments.
  • Coordinate with software engineers to validate digital interfaces and ensure clean RF signal paths from antenna to baseband.
  • Perform benchtop validation using spectrum analyzers, VNAs, and signal generators to benchmark performance and tune system characteristics
  • Support antenna integration, placement, and impedance matching in close collaboration with mechanical and system engineers
  • Assist with integration into the larger Smartmast system, including coordination with power, networking, and compute subsystems
Qualifications (Preferred):
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, or related field
    6+ years of experience in RF hardware design, with at least one full SDR or RF subsystem taken from concept to deployment
  • Strong experience with schematic capture and RF-aware PCB layout using tools such as Orcad or Allegro
  • Familiarity with ADCs/DACs, digital interfaces (PCIe, SPI, LVDS), and high-speed layout constraints
  • Hands-on experience with RF lab instrumentation (spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes)
  • Bonus: experience with marine communication bands, direction-finding, or defense-related RF systems.
Work Environment:
  • This is a remote position with collaboration via online tools.
  • Flexible working hours with occasional deadlines requiring high availability.
  • Opportunity to work on innovative projects with a global impact.
Benefits:
  • Competitive salary
  • Flexible work hours and the option for remote work.
  • Opportunities for professional development and continued education.

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