What is a Radio Frequency Engineer?
A Radio Frequency Engineer, also known as an RF Engineer, is an electrical engineer who specializes in devices that receive or transmit radio waves. All of our wireless and mobile devices operate on radio waves, so our tech-centered society would not be possible without the work of RF Engineers. These Engineers often work in a collaborative environment both with other RF Engineers and stakeholders in other disciplines.
A RF Engineer is a skilled position that requires both a Bachelor’s degree and completion of a state licensure exam. State Licensure is required for an aspiring RF Engineer because so many positions are with public telecommunications companies. Other possible employers include the military or a radio broadcast stations. There also are a limited number of research positions available in academia.
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RF Engineer Duties and Responsibilities
Optimize the Performance of Existing Wireless Networks
Design RF Schematics for New Wireless Networks
Ensure Regulatory Standards are Met
Analyze Equipment and Identify Areas for Improvement
Communicate Data Using Digital Software
RF Engineer Skills
While the role of RF Engineer is highly technical, soft skills like active listening and oral comprehension are integral to success in the field. RF Engineers also have to have the perfect blend of being able to work independently and collaborate with others. Based on our analysis of RF Engineer job postings, here are some common and advanced skills employers desire from RF Engineer candidates.
Core Skills Our research shows the following skills to be the core skills required to succeed as an RF Engineer. Those looking to become an RF Engineer should focus on the following
- Ability to understand and analyze wireless network KPIs
- RF design circuitry skills
- Knowledge of cell site design and LTE networks
- Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel
- Ability to work in a team
- Interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to prioritize workload
Advanced Skills These skills were not listed as required to earn employment as an RF Engineer, but possessing these skills will give you an advantage in the job market.
- Experience with software such as MapInfo, Siterra, and Atoll
- Proficiency in the principles of Project Management
- Advanced mathematical ability
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RF Engineer Salary
RF Engineer Resources
Are you interested in further exploring the RF Engineer career path? If so, then check out this list of additional resources.
On the Web
RfCafe.comFounded in 1996, RF Cafe is one of the oldest Radio Frequency Engineering websites on the Internet. Although the design may be a little outdated, the information they aggregate is current.
Microwaves101.comMicrowaves 101, which has been around since 2001, is a digital encyclopedia of terms and concepts relating to Radio Frequency Engineering. It also has an active discussion board for members.
M.mwrf.comMicrowaves & RF is one of the best true blogs for aspiring RF Engineers. They post at least a few articles a week, and they also conduct at least one webinar a month. This is the site to visit if you want to dive more into the theory of RF Engineering.
Industry Groups
National Society of Professional EngineersOriginally founded in 1934, the NSPE caters to professional Engineers of all disciplines. There are a plethora of RF Engineers amongst its 31,000 members.
IEEE Broadcast Technology SocietyThe Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers has several smaller societies for the different Engineering subfields. The Broadcast Technology Society is the one that is for RF Engineers.
Books
RF Engineering for Wireless Networks: Hardware, Antennas and PropagationWritten by Daniel M. Dobkin and published in 2004, one reviewer on Amazon called this a “great practical resource for those looking to learn the field of RF Engineering.
Classic Works in RF EngineeringCompiled John Walker, this is a collection of the post popular and groundbreaking articles published in the field of RF Engineering. These articles span all the way back to the birth of the field, so it is a great read for appreciating how far the field of RF Engineering has come.
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