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Senior Rf Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Sr. SAP Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$140K/yr

Sr. SAP Developer Posting Start Date: 1/23/26 Job Location (Short): Chicago, Illinois, USA, 60631 ... This role requires a strong foundation in HANA database development, RF framework, SAP Screen ...

Senior level Engineering Analyst who can mentor global team, conduct analysis, evaluation ... SAP WM / RF expertise in the following areas: * Warehouse Management with RF, Transfer order ...

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Rf Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$57.7K

$122.6K

$177.8K

How much do senior rf engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior rf engineer in Illinois is $122,637.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,300.00 and $139,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior RF engineer do?

A senior RF engineer designs, develops, and tests radio frequency systems and components used in wireless communication devices. They analyze signal performance, troubleshoot issues, and often use simulation tools like MATLAB or HFSS. This role typically requires strong knowledge of RF theory, circuit design, and industry standards, along with experience in project management and team collaboration.

What are Senior RF Engineers?

Senior RF Engineers are experienced professionals who design, implement, and optimize radio frequency (RF) systems used in telecommunications, broadcasting, and other wireless communications. They are responsible for ensuring the performance and reliability of RF networks by conducting tests, troubleshooting issues, and developing solutions to improve signal quality. Senior RF Engineers often lead project teams, mentor junior engineers, and work closely with other departments to deliver effective wireless communication solutions.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Senior RF engineers in specialized industries such as telecommunications, aerospace, or defense can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives for senior-level positions requiring expertise in RF design, testing, and system integration.

What are some common technical challenges faced by Senior RF Engineers, and how are they typically addressed within engineering teams?

Senior RF Engineers often encounter challenges related to signal interference, system integration, and maintaining optimal performance under real-world conditions. These issues are typically addressed through collaborative troubleshooting with cross-functional teams, such as hardware, software, and test engineers. Utilizing advanced simulation tools, performing thorough field testing, and conducting design reviews are standard practices to ensure solutions are effective and reliable. Regular knowledge sharing within the team helps in quickly resolving complex RF problems and staying updated with evolving technologies.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior RF engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries like telecommunications or defense, can earn $200,000 or more annually. Compensation often depends on location, certifications, and the complexity of projects handled.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior RF engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries like telecommunications or aerospace, can earn $300,000 or more annually. Achieving this level often requires advanced certifications, expertise in signal processing, and working in senior or managerial roles with significant responsibilities.

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

AspectSenior RF EngineerRF Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, certifications like FCC or RF-specific coursesBachelor's in Electrical Engineering or related field, some certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and troubleshooting RF systems in labs or fieldAssist in RF system development, testing, and maintenance
ResponsibilitiesLead projects, optimize RF performance, mentor junior staffSupport RF design, perform measurements, and document results

The main difference lies in experience and responsibility level. Senior RF Engineers typically lead projects and mentor others, while RF Engineers focus on supporting design and testing tasks. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications, but the senior position involves more leadership and strategic planning.

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

To thrive as a Senior RF Engineer, you need advanced knowledge of radio frequency theory, wireless communication systems, and a relevant engineering degree, often complemented by several years of industry experience. Familiarity with RF simulation tools (such as CST, HFSS, or ADS), network analyzers, and certifications like Certified Wireless Network Professional (CWNP) are typically required. Excellent problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help in troubleshooting and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills and qualities are vital for designing reliable RF solutions, optimizing performance, and ensuring seamless integration in complex wireless environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Rf Engineer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Rf Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Senior Rf Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Senior Rf Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Rf Engineer job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,637 per year, or $59 per hour.
Sr. Principal Systems Engineer

Sr. Principal Systems Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

$135K - $203K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 349 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

109th of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: SAP
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
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. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems (NGMS) seeks to fill a Sr. Principal Systems Engineer position in the Mission Modeling Department at our Rolling Meadows, Illinois location. This role encompasses team leadership, management, and technical performance. Department assignments will be made at the conclusion of the interview process and be based on the candidate's fit and preference.
NGMS is a leading global provider, manufacturer and integrator of advanced, secure and agile software-defined systems and solutions. Our products range from advanced sensing technologies to state-of-the-art targeting and tracking systems that are deployed in Electro-Optical Infrared (EOIR) tracking and counter measures and Radio Frequency Electronic Warfare (RFEW) systems. Our SEIT organization provides complex avionics systems in Targeting, EOIR, and RF technology areas.
In the Mission Modeling department, you will develop, integrate, test and analyze complex virtual representations of systems and environments. Responsibilities may include development of simulation code and scripts, design of system models, documentation of model assumptions and performance, test automation, test reports, and execution of integration test activities in virtual environments and/or System Integration Labs (SILs) or offsite locations. You will also perform mission level operational analysis utilizing System of Systems modeling and agent-based simulation. You'll be able to apply your knowledge and experience in EOIR systems, optics, RF systems, algorithms, detection and tracking.
This position will be full-time, on-site at our Rolling Meadows, IL location.
This position is contingent upon Funding/Contract award, special access programs and acquiring and maintaining the necessary US Government security clearance per customers' requirements prior to start.
Basic Qualifications for Sr. Principal Systems Engineer:
  • Bachelor's degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) field with 8 years of related experience; OR a Master's degree in a STEM field with 6 years of related experience; OR PhD in a STEM field with 4 years of related experience.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in analytical thinking, problem solving skills and Systems thinking mindset
  • Knowledge of and experience in model-based systems engineering concepts such as SysML and tools such as Cameo and Rhapsody
  • Knowledge of and experience in MATLAB, C, C++, CUDA, VHDL, OpenCL, SysML, Python, or other scripting languages
  • Ability to work and lead engineers in an integrated product team (IPT) environment
  • Must have ability to obtain Interim Secret clearance prior to start-date and ability to obtain and maintain full Secret Clearance once started
  • US Citizenship required.

Preferred Qualifications for Sr. Principal Systems Engineer:
  • Experience with real-time signal processing in both firmware and software
  • Agile development experience
  • Experience with virtual environments, operational analysis or mission modeling (AFSIM, STK, BRAWLER, ATCOM, ONESAF)
  • Experience in Electronic Warfare
  • Experience in an abstract modeling environment (Rhapsody, Cameo, UML etc) for complex electronic systems evaluation
  • Experience performing system verification and validation
  • Working knowledge of EOIR systems, optics, RF systems, algorithms, detection and/or tracking
  • Proficiency in MATLAB, C, C++, CUDA, VHDL, OpenCL, SysML, Python, or other scripting languages
  • Working knowledge of DOORS and ClearCase/ClearQuest
  • Experience in an integration and test environment for complex electronic systems evaluation
  • Experience in development and earned value management of cost accounts and schedules as related to Systems Engineering tasks
  • Active Secret or Top-Secret Clearance

Primary Level Salary Range: $135,800.00 - $203,600.00
The 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