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Spectrum Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Title: Spectrum Engineer KBR is seeking a Spectrum Engineer to support Navy acquisition and modernization programs by providing technical expertise in spectrum management, electromagnetic ...

Title: Spectrum Engineer KBR is seeking a Spectrum Engineer to support Navy acquisition and modernization programs by providing technical expertise in spectrum management, electromagnetic ...

PEMCCO is seeking a Transit RF / Spectrum Engineer to support the transition of a large urban multi-modal transit system from legacy 900MHz platforms to an 800MHz APCO P25 communications architecture.

Salary: $50.61 $64.66 Hourly DOE and Certifications PEMCCO is seeking a Transit RF / Spectrum Engineer to support the transition of a large urban multimodal transit system from legacy 900MHz ...

The program supports compliance with federal spectrum management policies, engineering standards, and spectrum allocation requirements while enabling stakeholders to effectively review, analyze, and ...

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Spectrum Engineer information

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$25.5K

$105.6K

$146.5K

How much do spectrum engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for spectrum engineer in the United States is $105,647.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $135,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Spectrum Engineer vs RF Engineer?

AspectSpectrum EngineerRF Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering or related; certifications like FCC licensingBachelor's in Electrical or Electronics Engineering; similar certifications often required
Work EnvironmentTelecom companies, broadcast, wireless service providersWireless carriers, telecommunications, electronics manufacturing
Industry UsageFocuses on spectrum management, allocation, and interference analysisDesigns and tests radio frequency circuits and systems

While both roles involve working with radio frequencies, Spectrum Engineers primarily manage spectrum allocation and interference issues, whereas RF Engineers focus on designing and testing RF hardware. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the telecommunications industry.

How does a Spectrum Engineer typically collaborate with regulatory bodies and other engineering teams within an organization?

Spectrum Engineers often work closely with regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with frequency allocation and licensing requirements. Within an organization, they regularly coordinate with RF engineers, network planners, and product development teams to optimize spectrum usage and resolve interference issues. This collaboration is crucial for maintaining uninterrupted service and developing innovative solutions that adhere to both technical and legal standards. Strong communication skills and up-to-date knowledge of regulations are essential for success in this role.

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

To thrive as a Spectrum Engineer, you need a strong background in radio frequency (RF) engineering, telecommunications, and knowledge of spectrum management principles, often supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with spectrum analysis tools, RF modeling software, and relevant regulatory standards such as those from the FCC or ITU is essential. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for coordinating with stakeholders and solving complex spectrum allocation challenges. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure efficient spectrum utilization, regulatory compliance, and optimal performance of wireless communication systems.

What are Spectrum Engineers?

Spectrum Engineers are professionals who manage, analyze, and optimize the use of the radio frequency (RF) spectrum to ensure efficient and interference-free communication. They work with wireless technologies, regulatory agencies, and equipment manufacturers to allocate frequencies, resolve interference issues, and comply with regulations. Their expertise is essential for industries such as telecommunications, broadcasting, and defense, where reliable wireless communication is critical.
More about Spectrum Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Spectrum Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Spectrum Engineer job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Spectrum Engineer jobs? The top employers for Spectrum Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Spectrum Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Spectrum Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Spectrum Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,647 per year, or $50.8 per hour.
Spectrum Engineer

Spectrum Engineer

KBR, Inc.

Lexington Park, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

101st of 367 rated engineering


Job description

Title:
Spectrum Engineer
KBR is seeking a Spectrum Engineer to support Navy acquisition and modernization programs by providing technical expertise in spectrum management, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and Electromagnetic Environmental Effects (E3) for spectrum-dependent systems operating across air, land, and sea domains. The successful candidate will conduct spectrum certification activities, evaluate system performance and spectrum supportability, perform technical analyses, and support compliance with DoD, Navy, NTIA, and international spectrum regulations. This role works closely with engineers, program offices, and spectrum stakeholders to assess operational feasibility, mitigate electromagnetic interference (EMI), and ensure mission-critical systems can effectively operate within contested and complex electromagnetic environments.
Roles and Responsibilities
  • Provide technical expertise to engineering teams regarding spectrum management, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and Electromagnetic Environmental Effects (E3) for Navy spectrum-dependent systems operating across air, land, and sea platforms.
  • Research, analyze, and evaluate spectrum-dependent systems and equipment to determine operating characteristics, performance limitations, and spectrum supportability.
  • Navigate and utilize multiple DoD, Navy, and spectrum allocation databases to identify frequency assignments, allocations, and technical information supporting system development and fielding.
  • Perform technical analyses including link budget calculations, coupling analysis, interference assessments, and operational feasibility studies for RF and spectrum-dependent systems.
  • Develop recommendations and mitigation strategies to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) and improve overall electromagnetic compatibility.
  • Review system operational requirements and assess compliance with applicable spectrum regulations and standards, including requirements established within the NTIA Manual.
  • Prepare and submit spectrum certification packages, including DD Form 1494 documentation and supporting technical analyses, through the Navy Marine Corps Spectrum Center (NMSC) for review and submission to NTIA and/or MC4EB.
  • Support spectrum certification efforts for systems operating in the 960-1215 MHz frequency band, including Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) interrogators and transponders, Link-16 systems, Traffic Collision Avoidance Systems (TCAS), and associated test equipment.
  • Develop and coordinate Host Nation Spectrum Coordination requests supporting operational deployments and acquisition programs worldwide.
  • Perform, document, and maintain Spectrum Supportability Risk Assessments (SSRAs) for DoD acquisition programs throughout multiple phases of the acquisition lifecycle.
  • Attend design reviews, technical interchange meetings, and program reviews to evaluate spectrum requirements, risks, and compliance considerations.
  • Prepare engineering analyses, technical reports, recommendations, and program documentation supporting acquisition, integration, testing, and fielding activities.

Basic Qualifications
  • U.S. Citizenship required; active secret clearance or ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Physics from an accredited institution.
  • Minimum of 4 years of experience supporting spectrum engineering, spectrum management, E3 engineering, or related RF engineering functions.
  • Experience supporting spectrum certification, frequency allocation activities, DD Form 1494 submissions, or spectrum regulatory compliance efforts.
  • Experience conducting technical analyses of RF or spectrum-dependent systems, including interference assessments, link budget analysis, or EMC evaluations.
  • Knowledge of NTIA Manual requirements, DoD spectrum policies, and spectrum supportability processes.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience supporting U.S. Navy, NAVAIR, or DoD acquisition programs.
  • Experience preparing Spectrum Supportability Risk Assessments (SSRAs).
  • Familiarity with NMSC, MC4EB, NTIA, and Host Nation Coordination processes.
  • Experience supporting Link-16, IFF, TCAS, aviation communications, tactical datalinks, radar systems, or other spectrum-dependent military systems.
  • Experience working with airborne platforms, weapons systems, avionics, or C5ISR systems.

Weekly Hours: Up to 30/hours weekly.
Compensation: $110,000-$137,000. The salary range posted is based on the national average. The offered rate will be based on the selected candidate's location, knowledge, skills, abilities, and/or experience, contract affordability, and in consideration of internal parity.
Additional Compensation: KBR may offer bonuses, commissions, or other forms of compensation to certain job titles or levels per internal policy or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, short-term incentives, long-term incentives, or discretionary payments for exceptional performance.
KBR Benefits: KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development
Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.
KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998