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Sr Rf Engineer Jobs in Santa Clara, CA (NOW HIRING)

Sr Principal/ Principal RF Engineer Posting Start Date: 7/6/26 Job Location(s): Hillsboro, San Jose If you are looking for a challenging and exciting career in the world of technology, then look no ...

We are seeking a Principal/Sr Principal RF Engineer who thrives on solving complex design challenges and bringing high-performance wireless solutions from concept to mass production. In this role ...

Showing results 41-60

Sr Rf Engineer information

See Santa Clara, CA salary details

$43.5K

$138.2K

$214.9K

How much do sr rf engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for sr rf engineer in Santa Clara, CA is $138,208.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,500.00 and $163,200.00 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 Santa Clara, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Sr Rf Engineer jobs in Santa Clara, CA are:

What cities near Santa Clara, CA are hiring for Sr Rf Engineer jobs?

Cities near Santa Clara, CA with the most Sr Rf Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Sr Rf Engineer job openings in Santa Clara, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,208 per year, or $66.4 per hour.

Sr Principal/ Principal RF Engineer

Skyworks

San Jose, CA • On-site

$143K - $286K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Sr Principal/ Principal RF Engineer
Posting Start Date: 7/6/26
Job Location(s): Hillsboro, San Jose
If you are looking for a challenging and exciting career in the world of technology, then look no further. Skyworks is an innovator of high-performance analog semiconductors whose solutions are powering the wireless networking revolution. Through our broad technology expertise and one of the most extensive product portfolios in the industry, we are Connecting Everyone and Everything, All the Time.
At Skyworks, you will find a fast-paced environment with a strong focus on global collaboration, minimal layers of management, and the freedom to make meaningful contributions in a setting that encourages creative thinking. We are excited about the opportunity to work with you and glad you want to be part of a team of talented individuals who together are changing the way the world communicates.
Requisition ID: 77871
Job Description:
Description
Join a team where cutting-edge RF innovation meets real-world impact. We are seeking a Principal/Sr Principal RF Engineer who thrives on solving complex design challenges and bringing high-performance wireless solutions from concept to mass production. In this role, you will play a pivotal part in shaping next-generation RF transceivers integrated into advanced sub-45nm CMOS SoCs-powering technologies that connect the world.
As a key technical leader, you will drive the end-to-end design of RF and mixed-signal blocks, from architecture and modeling through silicon validation and production. You'll collaborate cross-functionally to push the boundaries of radio performance, power efficiency, and system integration, while mentoring engineers and influencing design strategy. This position is ideal for a hands-on expert with a passion for innovation, a strong production track record in wireless systems such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and a desire to make a lasting impact on cutting-edge semiconductor solutions.
Note: This person can be based in our San Jose, CA or Hillsboro, OR office locations.
Responsibilities
  • Perform or lead all aspects of the implementation, including architecture, modeling, design, simulation and characterization, of RF transceivers to be included on sub-45nm CMOS SOCs.
  • Optimize analog and RF block specifications, collaborating with engineers from other disciplines to meet product requirements for radio performance, power consumption, and system features
  • Invent new approaches if necessary to solve design problems.
  • Model, design and simulate blocks and develop pre- and post-silicon verification suites.
  • Work with layout designers to guide and optimize their implementation of your blocks.
  • Plan and perform post-silicon characterization, troubleshoot fabricated designs and document results
  • Work with production test engineers to develop efficient manufacturing tests.
  • Lead and mentor other block designers

Required Experience and Skills
  • 15+ years (BSEE), 12+ years (MSEE) or 8+ years (Phd) of relevant industry experience
  • Proven track record of designs reaching mass production, preferably for wireless standards such as Bluetooth and WiFi
  • Thorough knowledge of RF theory and mixed-signal concepts and technology
  • Extensive hands-on experience in CMOS RF design at 2.4 and 5GHz, preferably including switched-cap PAs, LNAs and frequency synthesizers
  • Experience with a variety of modeling and simulation tools, including Cadence Spectre/SpectreRF, MATLAB, 3-D simulators (EMX), AMS
  • Experience with analog layout methodologies, parasitic extraction and simulation
  • Experience with programming and scripting languages, e.g. Python, SKILL, MATLAB, C
  • Experience in lab characterization and investigation, with a focus on automated measurements.
  • Experience in applying AI tools to increase productivity in design and characterization
  • Experienced in producing detailed technical specifications, reports and documentation
  • This position requires an individual skilled in making architectural and circuit implementation decisions, informed by industrial experience and academic literature
  • Professional, open and highly self-motivated attitude

#LI-SJ1
The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is currently USD $143,000 - $286,400 per year. Starting base pay will depend on relevant experience and skills, training and education, business needs, market demands, the ultimate job duties and requirements, and work location. Skyworks has different base pay ranges for different work locations in the U.S. Benefits include access to healthcare benefits (including a premium-free medical plan option), a 401(k) plan and company match, an employee stock purchase plan, paid time off (including vacation, sick/wellness, parental leave), among others. Employees are eligible to participate in an incentive plan, and certain roles are also eligible for additional awards, including recognition and stock. These incentives and awards are based on individual and/or company performance.
Skyworks is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Skyworks strives to create an accessible workplace; if you need an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at accommodations@skyworksinc.com.

Skyworks logo

About Skyworks

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are empowering the wireless networking revolution, connecting people, places and things around the world. As the demand for ubiquitous, “always-on” connectivity increasingly expands, our innovative, high performance analog semiconductors are enabling breakthrough communication platforms from global industry leaders – changing the way we live, work, play and learn. Through our broad technology expertise and one of the most extensive product portfolios in the industry, we are Connecting Everyone and Everything, All the Time.

Industry

Construction

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Buffalo, NY, US