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

HawkEye 360

Senior RF Electrical Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$130K - $175K/yr

HawkEye 360 is seeking a Sr. RF Electrical Engineer on the Space Team. The Space Team's mission is to design, build, and test small commercial satellites that provide revolutionary RF geospatial ...

FTS International LLC

RF Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$170K - $220K/yr

The Senior RF Systems Engineer provides management and outreach support to the government customer RF Program Manager. Responsibilities * Utilize knowledge and background in RF technology and ...

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 hats in the world of radio frequencies, electronics, hardware, and software. You will be responsible ...

KBR, Inc.

Sr RF Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$183K - $274K/yr

Title: Sr RF Systems Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

kgs

Cellular / RF Engineer (TS)

Washington, DC

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

KBR

Sr RF Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$183K - $274K/yr

Title: Sr RF Systems Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

KBR

SR RF Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · 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 ...

KBR, Inc.

SR RF Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · 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 ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsRf Engineer JobsSenior Rf Engineer JobsSenior Rf Engineer Jobs in Gaithersburg, MD

Senior Rf Engineer information

See Gaithersburg, MD salary details

$64.3K

$136.7K

$198.3K

How much do senior rf engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior rf engineer in Gaithersburg, MD is $136,739.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,900.00 and $155,000.00 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 popular job titles related to Senior Rf Engineer jobs in Gaithersburg, MD?

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

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

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

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

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

Senior Rf Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Rf Engineer job openings in Gaithersburg, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $136,739 per year, or $65.7 per hour.

Senior RF Electrical Engineer

HawkEye 360

Herndon, VA • On-site

$130K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

HawkEye 360 is seeking a Sr. RF Electrical Engineer on the Space Team. The Space Team's mission is to design, build, and test small commercial satellites that provide revolutionary RF geospatial analytics.
You will perform RF and electrical design of our space platforms with a primary focus on our RF payloads. This includes RF front ends, integrating Software Defined Radios (SDR's) and antenna systems. You'll define and execute RF performance tests to verify mission requirements while also developing analog, digital, and power electronics across our satellite platforms. This role requires strong RF and Electrical Engineering expertise working cross functionally with the mechanical, software, payload, and systems engineering teams.
Your main responsibilities will be:
  • Design and develop RF payload architectures and Software Defined Radio systems for space-based RF collection missions.
  • Design and optimize RF front ends, including filtering, amplification, frequency conversion, and signal conditioning circuitry.
  • Perform electrical and RF simulations at a board and system level to validate the performance of different sub-systems.
  • Perform RF link budget analysis, interference modeling, and sensitivity trade studies to meet mission performance requirements.
  • Support payload architecture decisions through mission-driven trade studies at PDR/CDR milestones.
  • Define and scope RF performance test plans to verify key specifications including sensitivity, dynamic range, spurious emissions, linearity, and signal quality.
  • Develop test procedures and automation scripts to characterize SDR and RF front-end performance.
  • Execute EMI/EMC compliance testing and develop mitigation strategies for flight hardware.
  • Design digital, analog, and power electronics for satellite flight hardware. Create and review schematics, block diagrams, PCB layouts, and Design for Manufacturing (DFM).
  • Work closely with PCB Contract Manufacturers (CMs) to ensure quality control and timely delivery of flight hardware.
  • Support spacecraft integration and testing efforts, including the design of Electrical Ground Support Equipment (EGSE), flatsats for functional testing, and satellite flight hardware testing.
  • Perform first article hardware unit testing, including reception inspection, burn-in testing, thermal validation, and hardware checkouts.

Your skills and qualifications:Essential education and experience:
  • Bachelor's degree in RF/Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
  • Expert understanding of software-defined radio architectures, RF front-ends, and space-based RF systems.
  • 7+ years of hands-on experience designing and testing RF electronics, including SDRs, mixers, filters, amplifiers, and receiver chains.
  • Experience s using lab equipment such as Spectrum Analyzers, Network Analyzers, Signal Generators, Noise Figure Analyzers, and RF test chambers.
  • Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively across multi-disciplinary teams.
  • Understanding of power electronics, high-speed digital design, and RF fundamentals (impedance matching, S-parameters, noise figure, linearity, etc.).
  • Expertise in PCB design and layout (Altium or similar) with attention to RF design considerations (controlled impedance, grounding, shielding).
  • Hands-on flight hardware experience (satellite integration, RF lab testing, prototyping, troubleshooting).
  • Experience handling ESD-sensitive components and operating in cleanroom environments.

Desirable:
  • Experience working in the smallsat or space industry with RF payloads or communication systems.
  • Experience with version control (git) and continuous integration workflows.
  • Proficiency with Python, C++, MATLAB, or other coding languages for RF analysis and test automation.
  • Experience with RF simulation tools (ADS, CST, HFSS, or similar).
  • Familiarity with CAD (NX, SolidWorks, etc.) to support electro-mechanical integration.
  • Experience with EMI/EMC testing
  • Experience using collaboration tools such as JIRA, Confluence, etc.

We offer a compensation package that includes a competitive base salary plus annual performance bonus and benefits. We consider many factors when determining salary offers, such as candidate's work experience, education, training & skills, as well as market and business considerations. We are also open to considering candidates with experience and qualifications at a different level than required in a job posting, which may affect the compensation package offered.
Salary Range
$130,000-$175,000 USD
Company Overview:
HawkEye 360 is equipping defense, intelligence, and national security leaders with mission-critical signals intelligence to enable faster, better decision making. By detecting, geolocating, and characterizing radio frequency emissions worldwide, HawkEye 360 delivers trusted domain awareness and early warning indicators to the US Government and allied partners. Our space-based collection, proprietary signal processing, and AI-powered analytics transform knowledge of RF spectrum into a strategic advantage. Proven by operational mission success, HawkEye 360 is redefining how signals intelligence strengthens national and global security.
HawkEye 360 is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.

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