ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Sr Rf Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Zipline

Senior RF Engineer - Avionics

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$125K - $172K/yr

Join a small but mighty team of RF engineers owning RF communications at Zipline. This includes Zip to Zip, Zip to Dock, Zip to Droid, and Zip to GA Aircraft. Today, we use tightly integrated 802.11 ...

New

Astranis

Senior RF Design Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$170K - $230K/yr

Senior RF Design Engineer As an RF Engineer you will be responsible for design, qualification, and procurement of active RF electronics (frequency converters, SSPAs, LNAs, PLLs, etc) in the RF ...

Vast

Senior RF Systems Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$175K - $249K/yr

Vast is looking for a Senior RF Systems Engineer , reporting to the Director, RF Engineering, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial ...

Gridware

Senior RF Engineer, Devices

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Role Description We're looking for a Wireless RF Engineer with broad-based expertise across RF architecture, design, integration, and manufacturing. The ideal candidate combines deep theoretical and ...

Gridware

Senior RF Engineer, Devices

San Francisco, CA

$195K - $210K/yr

Role Description We're looking for a Wireless RF Engineer with broad-based expertise across RF architecture, design, integration, and manufacturing. The ideal candidate combines deep theoretical and ...

Gridware

Senior RF Engineer, Devices

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$195K - $210K/yr

Role Description We're looking for a Wireless RF Engineer with broad-based expertise across RF architecture, design, integration, and manufacturing. The ideal candidate combines deep theoretical and ...

Astrolab

Senior RF Electrical Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$169K - $187K/yr

Senior RF Electrical Engineer Application Deadline: 23 June 2026 Department: Avionics Employment Type: Full Time Location: Hawthorne, California Reporting To: Kevin Drumm Compensation: $169,000 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsSr Rf Engineer JobsSr Rf Engineer Jobs in California

Sr Rf Engineer information

See California salary details

$36.5K

$116.1K

$180.6K

How much do sr rf engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for sr rf engineer in California is $116,139.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,200.00 and $137,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Sr RF Engineers?

Sr RF Engineers, or Senior Radio Frequency Engineers, are professionals who design, implement, and optimize wireless communication systems. They work with radio frequency signals and components to ensure reliable transmission and reception for applications such as cellular networks, satellite communications, and wireless devices. Their responsibilities often include system design, troubleshooting, network optimization, and compliance with regulatory standards. Sr RF Engineers typically have extensive experience and may lead teams or mentor junior engineers. They play a crucial role in advancing wireless technology and maintaining high-quality communications infrastructure.

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

To thrive as a Sr RF Engineer, you need deep expertise in radio frequency engineering, signal processing, and wireless communication systems, usually supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with RF simulation tools (such as CST, HFSS, or ADS), network analyzers, and relevant certifications like FCC or IEEE are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective collaboration set standout professionals apart in this role. These skills ensure reliable RF system performance, compliance with technical standards, and successful project delivery in dynamic technology environments.

What are some typical challenges Sr RF Engineers face when managing large-scale wireless network deployments?

Sr RF Engineers often encounter challenges such as mitigating signal interference, ensuring optimal coverage in complex environments, and adapting designs to evolving regulatory standards. Managing multiple project timelines and coordinating with cross-functional teams—like network planners, field technicians, and software specialists—are also common aspects of the role. Effective problem-solving, strong communication, and staying current with RF technologies are essential to successfully overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Sr Rf Engineer vs RF Engineer?

AspectSr Rf EngineerRF Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, certifications like FCC or RF-specific coursesBachelor's in Electrical or Electronics Engineering, similar certifications often required
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and troubleshooting RF systems in labs or fieldSimilar environments, focusing on RF system implementation and testing
Industry UsageTelecommunications, aerospace, defense, wireless networksTelecommunications, consumer electronics, wireless communication
Role FocusAdvanced RF design, system optimization, technical leadershipRF system setup, testing, and basic troubleshooting

The main difference between a Sr Rf Engineer and an RF Engineer lies in experience and responsibilities. Sr Rf Engineers typically handle advanced design and optimization tasks, often leading projects, while RF Engineers focus on implementation and testing. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but the senior role involves more strategic and technical leadership in RF projects.

What are popular job titles related to Sr Rf Engineer jobs in California? For Sr Rf Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sr Rf Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Sr Rf Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Sr Rf Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Sr Rf Engineer job openings:
Sr Rf Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sr Rf Engineer job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,139 per year, or $55.8 per hour.
Senior RF Engineer - Mission-Critical Transit Communications

Senior RF Engineer - Mission-Critical Transit Communications

PEMCCO, Inc.

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$64 - $88/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Location: On-site | Active rail and bus operating environments
Compensation: $64-$88 hourly (W2 with full benefits)
Why This Role Matters
PEMCCO is seeking a senior-level RF engineer to serve as a trusted technical authority supporting a large, complex urban transit system. This role plays a direct part in modernizing mission-critical radio communications infrastructure used by operators, maintenance teams, and first responders in underground and surface environments.
You'll work hands-on with live systems while also shaping solutions - diagnosing complex RF issues, guiding system transitions, validating performance, and advising agency stakeholders. This is an opportunity to apply deep expertise in environments where reliability, safety, and continuity truly matter.
About PEMCCO
PEMCCO, Inc. is an Information Technology and Information Management (IT/IM) services firm focused on helping customers maximize existing and emerging technologies. Our culture is built on Loyalty, Integrity, and Commitment, supported by Smart Organization Healthy Organization (SOHO) principles that emphasize clear communication and effective execution.
The Role
As a Senior RF Engineer, you will act as an embedded technical resource within an active transit operating environment. This is a hands-on, senior leadership role balancing field diagnostics, system optimization, technical review, and structured reporting.
While on-site work is required, the role combines field investigations, planning, coordination, and documentation rather than constant reactive work.
What You'll Do
  • Conduct RF field surveys, system performance measurements, and structured troubleshooting.
  • Perform root cause analysis of elevated noise floor and uplink interference conditions, particularly in underground environments.
  • Troubleshoot DAS, leaky feeder systems, headend equipment, repeaters, antennas, and supporting infrastructure.
  • Develop and implement corrective action plans to restore and enhance system performance.
  • Provide senior oversight during installation, system integration, testing, and commissioning activities.
  • Develop structured test plans and validate performance against defined acceptance criteria.
  • Review vendor technical submittals for compliance and integration alignment.
  • Support spectrum transition initiatives (including 900 MHz to 800 MHz) through planning, sequencing, and risk mitigation with minimal operational disruption.
  • Prepare clear daily, weekly, and monthly technical status reports for stakeholders.
  • Coordinate on-site activities within active rail environments, including right-of-way access and safety compliance.
  • Identify obsolete equipment and cabling suitable for removal and support documentation updates.
  • Monitor assigned task funding and provide early notification as funding thresholds are approached.

What You Bring
Core Competencies
  • Advanced RF troubleshooting and interference mitigation
  • DAS and/or leaky-feeder system diagnostics in tunnel or underground environments
  • Spectrum transition planning and cutover coordination
  • Installation, testing, and commissioning leadership
  • Vendor technical review and integration oversight
  • Regulatory awareness and FCC compliance knowledge
  • Clear technical writing and structured reporting
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills

Experience & Qualifications
  • 10+ years of experience in radio communications system design, installation, troubleshooting, testing, and commissioning.
  • Experience supporting public safety, transit, or other large-scale mission-critical RF systems.
  • Demonstrated experience performing RF interference and noise floor root cause analysis.
  • Experience supporting spectrum transitions or large-scale RF system migrations (900 MHz to 800 MHz experience a plus).
  • Experience reviewing vendor technical submittals and coordinating field activities in live operational environments.
  • Ability to produce clear, structured technical documentation and reports.
  • Working knowledge of FCC regulations applicable to radio systems.

Preferred
  • Experience supporting metropolitan transit agencies or rail authorities.
  • Familiarity with P25 trunked systems or public safety radio infrastructure.
  • Experience with mountaintop or remote RF site upgrades.
  • Project scheduling or milestone tracking exposure.
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or related field (or equivalent experience).

Certifications & Other Requirements
  • RF, telecommunications, or spectrum-related certifications preferred
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to obtain and maintain required rail safety and right-of-way certifications

Compensation & Benefits
  • Hourly pay: $64-$88, based on experience and certifications
  • 15 days PTO and 11 paid holidays
  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • 401(k)
  • Life, disability, and voluntary benefit options
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Work Authorization & Equal Opportunity
Applicants must be authorized to work for any U.S. employer. PEMCCO does not offer visa sponsorship. PEMCCO, Inc. is an equal-opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on protected characteristics under applicable law.

Apply