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Senior Rf Engineer Jobs in Arlington, VA (NOW HIRING)

SR RF Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$150K - $225K/yr

Title: SR RF Systems Engineer Key Responsibilities: * Knowledge of fundamental of electrical engineering as it relates to digital signal processing (DSP), alternate waveforms, and analysis of signal ...

Cellular / RF Engineer (TS)

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$240K - $260K/yr

Senior vendor design certification * Formal RF design credentials such as iBwave (if applicable ... Engineering governance or program-level credentials Preferred Experience: * Hands-on experience ...

Senior vendor design certification * Formal RF design credentials such as iBwave (if applicable ... Engineering governance or program-level credentials Preferred Experience: * Hands-on experience ...

Senior RF Analyst

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$90K - $119K/yr

... RF Payload Engineer with mission analysis expertise to join the Electronic Intercepts and ... This isn't just another engineering role-you'll provide strategic matrix support directly to ...

Senior RF Analyst

Chantilly, VA ยท Hybrid

$90K - $119K/yr

... RF Payload Engineer with mission analysis expertise to join the Electronic Intercepts and ... This isn't just another engineering role-you'll provide strategic matrix support directly to ...

Senior Space Systems Engineer

Reston, VA

$110K - $151K/yr

As a Senior RF Communications Engineer, you will lead the design, analysis, and optimization of RF communications performance across SES Space & Defense's space architectures, assisting in the ...

Showing results 41-60

Senior Rf Engineer information

See Arlington, VA salary details

$68.5K

$145.6K

$211.1K

How much do senior rf engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior rf engineer in Arlington, VA is $145,598.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,200.00 and $165,100.00 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. Their role requires strong knowledge of RF principles, circuit design, and industry standards, often supported by relevant certifications and experience in a fast-paced engineering environment.

What is a senior RF engineer?

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 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.

Is RF engineering in demand?

RF engineering is in high demand due to the growth of wireless communication, 5G networks, and satellite technology. Senior RF engineers with expertise in signal processing, antenna design, and RF testing are sought after across telecommunications, aerospace, and defense industries.

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?

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 Arlington, VA? The most popular types of Rf Engineer jobs in Arlington, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Rf Engineer jobs in Arlington, VA? For Senior Rf Engineer jobs in Arlington, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Arlington, VA are hiring for Senior Rf Engineer jobs? Cities near Arlington, VA with the most Senior Rf Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Rf Engineer job openings in Arlington, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,598 per year, or $70 per hour.

Senior RF Signal Processing Engineer

CHAOS Industries

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$180K - $230K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

CHAOS Industries is redefining modern defense with a multi-product portfolio that gives the ultimate advantage-domain dominance. The company's products are powered by Coherent Distributed Networks (CDNโ„ข), empowering warfighters, commercial air operators, and border protection teams to act faster, adapt rapidly, and stay ahead of evolving threats.
CHAOS Industries was founded in 2022 and has raised a total of $1 billion in funding from leading investors, including 8VC, Accel, and Valor Equity Partners. The company is headquartered in Los Angeles, with offices in Washington, D.C., San Francisco, San Diego, Seattle, and London. For more information, please visit www.chaosinc.com.
Role Overview:
We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Senior RF Signal Processing Software Engineer to contribute to the successful development of our electromagnetic warfare product line. This role is critical to transforming our radar systems into sensing systems that detect, classify, and geolocate all RF emissions in the environment using advanced digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms. The Senior Engineer will contribute to the Spectrum Sensing Team in the development of algorithms, modeling, software integration, and the execution of field demonstrations of the technology. They will collaborate closely with Business Development (BD), Production, and other Engineering teams.
Responsibilities:
As a key contributor to the Spectrum Sensing Team, the Senior Engineer will play an integral role in developing and redefining the passive radar system into a distributed spectrum sensing system, with a focus on software and algorithm development. The day-to-day will be diverse, engaging, and intellectually stimulating, with a direct impact on pushing the boundaries of sensing technology and application. Key responsibilities include:
  • Develop, implement, and refine advanced DSP algorithms to detect, identify, and track RF signals
  • Integrate and test signal processing software with underlying RF/SDR hardware and host processing platforms

Minimum Requirements:
  • B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or a related field
  • 5+ years of relevant development experience
  • Experience working with RF sensing systems (active or passive) and advanced signal processing techniques
  • Experience working with recorded I/Q data and generating synthetic I/Q data
  • Strong theoretical understanding and practical application of signal processing techniques (e.g., FFT analyses, matched filtering, cyclostationary analysis)
  • Proficiency in programming languages like Python, C++, or MATLAB for algorithm development and integration into current code base
  • Experience with software defined radios (SDR) and associated signal processing toolkits
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly document technical details and present findings
  • Must be able to work on-site 3-5 days per week in Hawthorne CA or Washington D.C.
  • This role will require periodic travel, up to 30%
  • U.S. citizen
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance

Preferred Requirements:
  • M.S. degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or a related field
  • Current U.S. security clearance
  • Expertise in cyclostationary signal processing
  • Demonstrated experience identifying commercial and non-commercial communication waveforms
  • Expertise with electromagnetic spectrum sensing and classification techniques (e.g., machine learning for signal classification)
  • Experience implementing signal processing algorithms for tactical applications
  • Experience implementing signal processing algorithms on RFSOC hardware
  • Experience with agile development tools like JIRA and Confluence
  • Experience in DoD, military, or other Government environment performing in a related subject area (e.g. engineering, computer science, etc.) in a fast-paced, dynamic environment

Why CHAOS?
  • Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision benefits 100% paid for by the company
  • Additional benefits: 401k (+ 50% company match up to 6% of pay), FSA, HSA, life insurance, and more
  • Our Perks: Free daily lunch, 'No meeting Fridays', unlimited PTO, casual dress code
  • Compensation Components: Competitive base salaries, generous pre-IPO stock option grants, relocation assistance, and (coming soon!) annual bonuses
  • Team Growth: 350 employees and counting across 5 global offices

Salary Range: $180,000 - $230,000
The stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base compensation range and excludes additional earnings such as bonus, equity, and benefits. If your compensation requirements fall outside of the range, we still encourage you to apply. The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations.
Recruiting Agencies: CHAOS Industries does not accept unsolicited resumes or outreach. Unsolicited submissions will not be reviewed or compensated.
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