1

Senior Rf Engineer Jobs in Columbia, MD (NOW HIRING)

Staff RF Signal Processing Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$180K - $230K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Senior Engineer will contribute to the Spectrum Sensing Team in the development of algorithms ... Experience working with RF sensing systems (active or passive) and advanced signal processing ...

RF Analysis Engineer, Senior

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

$77K - $176K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

RF Analysis Engineer, Senior The Opportunity: Do you enjoy contributing to a technical team, while closely working with stakeholders to produce technical outputs that demonstrate the optimal path ...

The Senior Systems Engineer (RF) will work in both laboratory and field environments to evaluate RF system performance, perform site surveys, support system installations, troubleshoot hardware and ...

The Senior Systems Engineer (RF) will work in both laboratory and field environments to evaluate RF system performance, perform site surveys, support system installations, troubleshoot hardware and ...

Electronics Engineer

Adelphi, MD · On-site

$85K - $130K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The RF Engineer works directly with senior technical personnel, program managers, and external organizations in the planning, oversight, execution, and evaluation of multiple complex RF systems. HII ...

Senior Antenna & RF Design Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

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 ...

Senior Antenna & RF Design Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Senior Rf Engineer information

See Columbia, MD salary details

$59K

$125.6K

$182.1K

How much do senior rf engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior rf engineer in Columbia, MD is $125,595.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,700.00 and $142,400.00 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 Columbia, MD?

The most popular types of Rf Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Rf Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD?

For Senior Rf Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Rf Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Rf Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD are:

What cities near Columbia, MD are hiring for Senior Rf Engineer jobs?

Cities near Columbia, MD with the most Senior Rf Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Rf Engineer job openings in Columbia, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,595 per year, or $60.4 per hour.

Principal / Sr. Principal RF Microwave Design Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Baltimore, MD

$135K - $203K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 363 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 539 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt 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, AMS E&S is seeking experienced engineers in the following areas: Receiver Exciter, RF/Microwave design and Digital Technology. The Principal / Sr. Principal RF Engineer role is focused on RF/Microwave Design and Analysis.

Responsibilities include but not limited to:

The candidate should demonstrate familiarity/technical ability in one or more of the following areas:

  • Subsystem requirements (hardware and software) derivation, flow-down, and configuration
  • Systems Architecture
  • Receiver/Exciter Architecture
  • Documentation experience, generating test procedures, test reports, RF requirements, data analysis, data presentation
  • Data Processing
  • Measurements and Data Reduction
  • Performance Modeling
  • Support performance testing, requirements verification and more.
  • Integrated subsystems including DREX and Antenna Hardware
  • Subsystem integration, test, and system integration
  • Conducting Test Readiness Reviews (TRR)
  • Perform in-depth analysis of hardware commanding down to the register level

In addition, this candidate should have demonstrated technical ability/leadership and expertise in one or more of the following areas:

  • Active electronically scanned arrays (AESAs)
  • Highly integrated subsystems including antenna hardware
  • Reflectors, Reflect Arrays, Digital Beam Forming
  • Antenna/RF Performance Analysis
  • Computational Electromagnetics, Statistics
  • Expertise in Antenna Measurements and Data Reduction, including RF budget analysis and performance evaluation
  • Strong MATLAB programming skills, with ability to develop scripts and function for big data processing and analysis
  • Experience with Atlassian Tool Suite, Git

These roles are contingent upon maintaining a Secret Clearance and obtaining SAP clearance.

These roles are contingent upon Program Award.

This role can be filled at either the Level 3 or Level 4 per the requirements below.

Basic Qualification Principal RF Microwave Design Engineer:

  • Must hold a Secret or Top-Secret security clearance
  • Must have a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related discipline with 4 years of experience in the areas described in the job description or Master's Degree with 2 years of experience or PhD with 0 years of experience. An additional 4 years of experience on lieu of degree is acceptable.
  • Proficient in MATLAB
  • Experience processing large amounts of data
  • Have an understanding of Antenna/RF Performance Analysis

Basic Qualifications Sr Principal Engineer RF Microwave Design:

  • Must hold a Secret or Top-Secret security clearance
  • Must have a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related discipline with 8 years of experience in the areas described in the job description or Master's Degree with 6 years of experience or PhD with 3 years of experience
  • An additional 4 years of experience on lieu of degree.
  • Sr. Principal Engineers should have a demonstrated ability in technical and team leadership overseeing engineers with experience at least at the Principal level.
  • Strong knowledge using MATLAB
  • Strong knowledge of processing large amount of data
  • Strong understanding of AESA / phased array, Radar, SIGINT, or SATCOM sensors
  • Be able to delegate, task and oversee the work of junior RF engineers

Preferred Qualifications:

  • TS/SCI clearance
  • SAP clearance
  • Experience troubleshooting RF subsystems
  • Strong understanding of Antenna/RF Performance Analysis
  • Requirements generation/flow down
Primary Level Salary Range: $108,800.00 - $163,200.00Secondary Level Salary Range: $135,800.00 - $203,600.00The 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.

What Northrop Grumman employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Northrop Grumman logo

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