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Sr Rf Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Principal Cyber RF Engineer Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most ...

Amentum is seeking a highly skilled Senior Radio Frequency (RF) Engineer to design, develop, and ... Develop, analyze, and assess RF Sensor requirements and capabilities, as well as provide ...

RF Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $185K/yr

The RF Payload Engineer will provide subject matter expert (SME) advice, technical evaluations ... Strong communication skills for interfacing with senior government leaders Desired Skills ...

Showing results 41-60

Sr Rf Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$36.7K

$116.7K

$181.4K

How much do sr rf engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for sr rf engineer in Virginia is $116,671.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,700.00 and $137,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Sr RF engineer?

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?

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 job categories do people searching Sr Rf Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Sr Rf Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Sr Rf Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Sr Rf Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Sr Rf Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,671 per year, or $56.1 per hour.

Sr RF Systems Engineer with Security Clearance

KBR

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$183K - $274K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

143rd of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Title:
Sr RF Systems Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the intelligence and national security communities. In this position, your work will have a profound impact on the country's most critical role - protecting our national security. We are seeking a Senior Communications Systems Engineer to provide systems engineering and technical advisory (SETA) services to our government customer. This position supports space and ground communication networks for multiple satellite systems, that are currently in development and in orbit. It provides subject matter expertise to an evolving communications infrastructure and requires close collaboration with developers and a cross-domain team. Responsibilities include supporting interface development, providing technical support to the communications architecture, and assisting with ongoing operations and anomaly resolution. Why Join Us? * Innovative Projects: KBR's work is at the forefront of engineering, logistics, operations, science, program management, mission IT and cybersecurity solutions.
* Collaborative Environment: Be part of a dynamic team that thrives on collaboration and innovation, fostering a supportive and intellectually stimulating workplace.
* Impactful Work: Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national security and shape the future of space defense. Key Responsibilities: * Evaluate enterprise-level architecture designs and program integration solutions and provide recommendations.
* Attend Enterprise, System, Subsystem and Segment level design reviews and program management reviews; assess design maturity, requirements compliance and provide informed technical recommendations.
* Perform independent reviews of contractor communication designs to verify satisfaction of mission needs (Requirements, CONOPs, constraints, etc).
* Prepare and Review test plans and procedures and verification and validation plans for completeness and accuracy. Ensure compliance and provide feedback. * Monitor enterprise and system test and review verification/validation data.
* Monitor contractor level risks and track mitigation progress.
* Proactively identify and assess emerging technical and programmatic risks to the Program Office and recommend mitigation approaches.
* Develop productive relationships with Contractor counterparts, functional counterparts, and other subject matter experts.
* Provide SETA support in the design, development, and testing of RF (Ka, Ku, S, etc) and laser communication systems.
* Demonstrates expertise and/or familiarity of:
* Space-to-space, space-to-ground, and ground-to-ground communication networks
* Mesh architecture
* Internet Protocols
* International Telecommunications Union (ITU) frequency allocation rules
* Cryptography implementation and Information Assurance accreditation Basic Compensation: $183,000 - $274,000 USD annually The offered rate will be based on the selected candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities and/or experience and in consideration of internal parity. Work Environment: * Location: On-site
* Travel Requirements: Minimal
* Working Hours: Standard Required Qualifications: * Active TS/SCI with current Polygraph
* Bachelor's degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics or related discipline with 15 years related experience; Master's degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics or related discipline 12+ years related experience; PhD and 9 years' experience. * Excellent interpersonal, leadership, programmatic, and problem-solving skills.
* Strong briefing and writing skills.
* Demonstrated ability to be effective in a fast-paced, dynamic and energetic environment.
* Familiarity with defense and intelligence acquisition, budget planning and contracting.
* RF and laser communication expertise and/or familiarity 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