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Sr Rf Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Senior Systems Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA

$102.30K - $140K/yr

Department of Defense, is looking for a Senior Systems Engineer to work in our Communications ... RF performance parameters (IP2/IP3, sensitivity / Noise Figure, Phase Noise, etc.) , * Dynamic ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$102.30K - $140K/yr

Department of Defense, is looking for a Senior Systems Engineer to work in our Communications ... RF performance parameters (IP2/IP3, sensitivity / Noise Figure, Phase Noise, etc.) , * Dynamic ...

SAP ABAP EWM S/4 Hana Architect - Spain

Madrid, IA · On-site

$60.75 - $82.25/hr

Role - Senior Technology Architect/SAP ABAP, EWM Architect Technology - SAP EWM, ABAP S/4 Hana ... RF customizing and development. • interface, develop, config and AIF (Monitoring and error ...

Sr Rf Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$34.8K

$110.5K

$171.9K

How much do sr rf engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for sr rf engineer in Iowa is $110,533.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,600.00 and $130,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 Iowa? For Sr Rf Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sr Rf Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Sr Rf Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Sr Rf Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Sr Rf Engineer job openings:
Senior Systems Engineer

Senior Systems Engineer

Pacific Defense

Cedar Rapids, IA

$102.30K - $140K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

** Due to the classified nature of our work, U.S. citizenship is required. Candidates must be willing to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance.

Location: Sunnyvale, CA, Mukilteo, WA, Nashua, NH

Pacific Defense, a small fast-growing company that develops and provides advanced multi-function RF systems for the U.S. Department of Defense, is looking for a Senior Systems Engineer to work in our Communications Waveform Development engineering team. As a member of the Pacific Defense group of companies, our growth is accelerating. Pacific Defense designs and builds advanced, military standards-based, modular open systems architecture (MOSA) systems. These systems conform to the Army's C4ISR Modular Open Suite of Standards (CMOSS) and the Air Force's Sensor Open Systems Architecture (SOSA) Standard. These CMOSS /SOSA systems are used for multi-mission electronic warfare, tactical communications, signals intelligence, cyber-EW, high performance computing and often simultaneous operation of these capabilities.

Who are we looking for:

Are you a talented and enthusiastic Senior Systems Engineer with outstanding technical, organizational and communication skills? Our high-performance computing systems are used for a variety of applications such as networking, signals intelligence, secure/covert digital communications, threat detection, RF jammers, and radio direction finding. To build these systems, we utilize state of the art hardware components including the latest FPGAs, SoCs, GPUs, DSPs, and advanced software and firmware techniques that allow intuitive command and control of systems as well as data collection and processing on 3U OpenVPX CMOSS/SOSA aligned platforms.

Pacific Defense is developing a comprehensive portfolio of embedded communications waveforms that are hosted on 3U OpenVPX modules permitting our customers to pick and choose a wide variety of capabilities to tailor the capability to the mission.

Requirements

Waveform Knowledge:

  • Familiarity with a range of tactical and military communication waveforms, including SINCAGRS, VULOS ATC, MUOS, SATURN, HAVEQUICK I/II, and LINK-16.
  • Familiarity  with advanced and proprietary waveforms such as BE-CDL, TSM, WREN-TSM, KATANA, WREN-NB, and public safety protocols like P25.

Experience:

  • RF performance parameters (IP2/IP3, sensitivity / Noise Figure, Phase Noise, etc.) ,
  • Dynamic range analysis (really EW and receiver design)
  • Digital modulation formats
  • Red/Black system architectures
  • Experience with NSA certification/evaluation processes

Familiarity with NCDSMO certification process

  • Waveform integration and test with Voice and Data
  • Proficiency in programming and/or hardware description languages such as C, C++, Python, VHDL/Verilog
  • Familiarity with embedded platforms including ARM and Xilinx MPSoC with embedded Linux
  • Familiarity with IPMI Out of Band Management. BMC/Redfish familiarity is a plus.

Networking

  • IP networking and VLANs
  • SOSA MORA and Army VICTORY messaging
  • Familiarity with STIG/SRGsFamiliarity with the RMF ATO process

System Integration

  • Experience configuring and managing lab test systems
  • Supervising Integration and Test teams
  • Familiarity with RF measurements and radio configuration tools.Experience with DoD Type 1 evaluations / certifications a plus.
  • Experience with Cameo/MagicDraw (or similar) Digital Modeling and simulation a plus

Responsibilities:

  • Decompose the system architecture into consumable tasks for engineering teams.
  • Manage and analyze Customer and derived requirements
  • Work with embedded software, applications software, FPGA, and hardware teams daily to solve difficult engineering challenges.
  • Lead a multi-functional agile-based development team.
  • Bid estimates to include Cost and Schedule generation
  • Interface with suppliers to provide best value technical solutions
  • Write test plans/procedures
  • Work with limited supervision
  • Manage project deliverables meeting cost/schedule objectives

Education

  • Minimum requirement: BS in EE, CS, or relevant discipline
  • MS in EE, CS, or a relevant discipline preferred.

Benefits

Pacific Defense provides competitive salaries and immediately vested 401K match. We provide 100% coverage options for the employee, and 75% coverage for dependents' medical, dental, vision, and life insurance premiums, as well as a flexible spending account for incidental health care expenses. We offer paid time off and federal holidays to spend time with family, pursue outside interests, or just get some extra rest.

Pacific Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected factor.