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Spectrum Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Provide technical expertise to engineering teams regarding spectrum management, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and Electromagnetic Environmental Effects (E3) for Navy spectrum-dependent systems ...

Provide technical expertise to engineering teams regarding spectrum management, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and Electromagnetic Environmental Effects (E3) for Navy spectrum-dependent systems ...

The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience in spectrum management, spectrum engineering, and regulatory compliance, along with the ability to provide expert technical analysis ...

The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience in spectrum management, spectrum engineering, and regulatory compliance, along with the ability to provide expert technical analysis ...

The Spectrum Engineering Group is responsible for securing, managing, and protecting all civil aviation spectrum resources to ensure interference-free operation of FAA communications, navigation, and ...

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Spectrum Engineering information

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$12

$31

$57

How much do spectrum engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for spectrum engineering in the United States is $31.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $37.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 solid background in electrical engineering, radio frequency (RF) theory, and wireless communications, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with spectrum management tools, signal analysis software, and certifications such as Certified Wireless Network Professional (CWNP) are commonly required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for coordinating with regulatory bodies and technical teams. These competencies are crucial for ensuring optimal spectrum utilization, regulatory compliance, and the efficient operation of wireless networks.

What is the highest paying job at Spectrum?

At Spectrum, the highest paying roles are typically executive positions such as Vice President or Director levels, which can earn six-figure salaries. Senior engineering or technical leadership roles may also offer high compensation, especially with specialized skills and experience in network infrastructure or engineering management.

What is the difference between Spectrum Engineering vs Radio Frequency (RF) Engineering?

AspectSpectrum EngineeringRadio Frequency (RF) Engineering
CertificationsFCC licenses, Spectrum management certificationsFCC licenses, RF certifications
Work EnvironmentTelecom companies, government agencies, spectrum management firmsTelecom, wireless carriers, defense contractors
Industry UsageFocuses on spectrum allocation, regulation, and planningDesigns, tests, and optimizes RF systems and components

While both roles involve working with radio frequencies, Spectrum Engineering primarily focuses on spectrum allocation, regulation, and management, ensuring efficient use of radio spectrum. RF Engineering concentrates on designing and testing RF systems and components. Both roles often overlap but serve distinct functions within the wireless and telecommunications industries.

What does a spectrum engineer do?

A spectrum engineer designs, analyzes, and manages radio frequency spectrum allocations to ensure efficient and interference-free wireless communication. They use tools like spectrum analyzers and software to monitor signals, optimize network performance, and comply with regulatory standards. This role often requires knowledge of telecommunications, signal processing, and relevant certifications.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering with extensive experience and advanced skills can earn $500,000 or more annually. These roles often require advanced degrees, certifications, and leadership responsibilities, and compensation may include bonuses and stock options.

What are some common challenges faced by spectrum engineers when coordinating frequency allocations with other organizations?

Spectrum engineers often encounter challenges related to interference management and regulatory compliance when coordinating frequency allocations with other organizations. These challenges may include negotiating shared spectrum use, ensuring compatibility between different technologies, and adhering to national and international regulations. Effective communication and collaboration with regulatory bodies, industry partners, and sometimes even competitors are essential skills for overcoming these hurdles. Being proactive and detail-oriented helps spectrum engineers anticipate and resolve conflicts, ensuring optimal and interference-free use of the radio frequency spectrum.

Is spectrum engineering a good career?

Spectrum engineering is a specialized field focused on managing and optimizing radio frequency spectrum for telecommunications and broadcasting. It offers opportunities in network design, spectrum management, and compliance, often requiring technical skills and certifications. The career can be stable and well-paying for those with relevant expertise and a background in electrical engineering or related fields.

What is spectrum engineering?

Spectrum engineering is the field focused on the efficient use and management of the radio frequency spectrum, ensuring that wireless communication systems operate without interference. Spectrum engineers design, analyze, and coordinate the allocation of frequencies for various applications such as broadcasting, mobile communications, satellite, and radar. Their work involves regulatory compliance, technical analysis, and developing strategies to maximize spectrum utilization. This field is crucial for supporting the growing demand for wireless technologies and maintaining clear communication channels.
More about Spectrum Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Spectrum Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Spectrum Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Spectrum Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Spectrum Engineering jobs include:
Infographic showing various Spectrum Engineering job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,624 per year, or $31.6 per hour.
Spectrum Engineer

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

105th of 375 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 operate effectively in contested and complex electromagnetic environments.
WORKPLACE SETTING: This role offers a flexible remote workplace setting. Must work ET/East Coast Hours to support work for NAS Patuxent River, MD.
WEEKLY HOURS: Up to 30/hours weekly.
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.

WORKPLACE SETTING: This role offers a flexible remote workplace setting. Must work ET/East Coast Hours to support work for NAS Patuxent River, MD.
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 #LI-KW1
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

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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