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Senior Rf Engineer Jobs in Gardendale, AL (NOW HIRING)

Lead RF experimentation efforts at field sites under the guidance of senior engineers, providing early opportunities for technical ownership. * Support the setup, calibration, and operation of RF ...

HEALTH PHYSICS LEAD

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$52K - $64K/yr

... MRI, RF, UV). • Reviews and provides technical guidance on facility design, shielding, and ... nuclear engineering or a related field and four (4) years of related experience required. Work ...

Senior Rf Engineer information

See Gardendale, AL salary details

$53.4K

$113.7K

$164.8K

How much do senior rf engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior rf engineer in Gardendale, AL is $113,665.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,900.00 and $128,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest salary for an RF engineer?

The highest salaries for senior RF engineers can exceed $150,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, specialized skills in RF design and testing, and certifications. Compensation varies based on industry, location, and company size, with top earners often working in telecommunications, aerospace, or defense sectors.

Can you make $500,000 as an electrical engineer?

Senior RF engineers, a specialized role within electrical engineering, can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in high-paying industries like telecommunications or defense. However, such salaries are typically achieved through senior positions, bonuses, and stock options, and are not common for entry-level roles. Overall, reaching this level requires significant expertise and often involves leadership responsibilities or working in lucrative markets.

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 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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior RF engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in radio frequency design, and certifications can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries like telecommunications and defense. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives, and typically requires advanced knowledge of RF systems, tools, and industry standards.

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 cities near Gardendale, AL are hiring for Senior Rf Engineer jobs? Cities near Gardendale, AL with the most Senior Rf Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Rf Engineer job openings in Gardendale, AL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,665 per year, or $54.6 per hour.
RF Engineer

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Kratos Defense & Security Solutions rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:

This full-time position is in the Systems Development Department and is a highly motivated role that will participate in the design and implementation of electronic and radio-frequency (RF) systems for applications within the department. This position includes hands?on field work and live test/demonstration support at customer and test ranges, providing direct exposure to real?world RF environments and scenarios. This role offers a blend of lab, field, and customer?facing work, ideal for engineers who want technical depth in RF plus exposure to systems engineering, integration, and testing.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
    • Perform RF benchtop testing using signal generators, spectrum analyzers, network analyzer, oscilloscopes, and power meters.
    • Lead RF experimentation efforts at field sites under the guidance of senior engineers, providing early opportunities for technical ownership.
    • Support the setup, calibration, and operation of RF systems at field tests, live demonstrations, and range events, including antenna deployment, RF cabling, and test instrumentation.
    • Troubleshoot RF hardware, cabling, and test equipment under time?constrained, real?world conditions, coordinating closely with engineering teams.
    • Assist in developing test execution plans and quick?reaction procedures tailored to field environments (e.g., limited power, site constraints, etc.).
    • Maintain detailed configuration records for fielded test setups (equipment IDs, cable runs, firmware versions, settings) to enable repeatable tests.
    • Capture field lessons learned and feed them back into design, test procedures, and documentation to improve future deployments and demonstrations.
    • Develop and perform test procedures to validate new RF hardware and control software.
    • Analyze and interpret signals and waveforms.
    • Interface with engineers and scientists of varying disciplines during the design of new systems.
    • Participate in team assemblies to analyze, develop requirements, and make recommendations for moderate to complex systems.
    • Prepare specifications for purchase of components and equipment.
    • Perform trade studies on components for RF systems.
    • Ensure individual responsibilities within projects are completed satisfactorily, on time and within budget.
    • Travel to customer sites, field locations, and deployment sites as required, potentially including OCONUS locations (estimated 25-50%)
Other Job Functions
  • Self-motivated to continually expand knowledge and skills related to this position.
  • Strong analytical skills and creative problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to work well with others in a dynamic environment.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines.
  • Performs other duties as required by supervisor.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.


KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:
  • Strong hands on troubleshooting skills with RF chains in the field (e.g., identifying connector, cable, and impedance issues; diagnosing signal anomalies under real world interference).
  • Comfortable interacting directly with customers and range personnel; able to represent the RF team professionally in field and demo settings.
  • Attention to Detail - Ensures details of assigned tasks are followed.
  • Quality Orientation - Accomplishes tasks by considering all areas involved; not matter how small; showing concern for all aspects of the job; accurately checking processes, procedures, and tasks; being watchful over a period of time.
  • Planning and Organization - Systematically identified issues to be addressed and plans a course of action for self to ensure the accomplishment of specific objectives.
  • Technical Expertise - Applies functional knowledge, skills, experience, and judgement to accomplish a result, serve customers better and contribute to the organization's intellectual capital.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Required Qualifications:

  • US Citizenship required.
  • Must be able to obtain/maintain security clearance at a level equivalent to Department of Defense (DOD) SECRET
  • MS Degree in Electrical Engineering / Physics or BS Degree in Electrical Engineering / Physics with 3-5 years' experience.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Comfortable interacting directly with customers and range personnel; able to represent the RF team professionally in field and demo settings.
  • Experience with MATLAB.
  • Experience working with waveform data in both the frequency and time domains.
  • Digital and/or analog electrical hardware design.
  • Strong mathematical/analytical problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work well with others in a dynamic environment.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Self-motivated to continually expand knowledge and skills related to this position.
WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Work Environment & Conditions

This position involves work in an office and laboratory environment and could require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including:

  • Safety glasses
  • Hearing protection (varies based on tasks)
  • Shoe covers
Physical Demands

In performing the work for this position, the engineer must be able to:

  • Perform work utilizing a computer for extended periods of time.
  • Sit for extended periods of time without being able to leave the work area.
  • Climb ladders and stairs in performing the work.