What Is a RF Engineer and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

A radio frequency (RF) engineer's primary responsibilities are to collect data, research radio frequency, and analyze gathered information to improve radar design. Your duties have you working with intelligence sensors, surveillance radars, cellular components, over-the-horizon radar, and radio waves. You design modules and switches to improve how the electronics transmit and perform surveys and installations. You take measurements of electromagnetic emissions, install equipment, test your designs, and troubleshoot and debug to improve the radio frequency and speed. RF engineers often coordinate with technicians and other engineers to cover multiple data sites.

To become an RF engineer, you need a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering. As an engineer, you also need to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering exam and become a licensed professional engineer. You must be familiar with Microsoft Office, Matlab, VHDL, and other analytical software. Knowledge of programming languages and database servers, such as Oracle, and SQL servers, is beneficial. Additional qualifications include experience with related tools, analytical problem-solving skills, experience with wireless electronics, and excellent communication skills.