Radio waves are a major part of modern technology. Every day, people depend on equipment that transmits or uses radio waves.
A radio frequency (RF) engineer is responsible for designing, installing, repairing, and maintaining this equipment.
If you think you'd like to be an RF engineer, keep reading to find out what this career is all about and if it's right for you.
Becoming a Radio Frequency (RF) Engineer
Generally, most RF engineers have at least a bachelor's degree and experience working with specific radio wave technology.
With the expansion of communications and wireless communication, RF engineers are more in demand than ever.
Without skilled RF engineers, you wouldn't have WiFi networks, GPS networks, or even cellphones!
Read on to learn what RF engineers do on an average workday and what you need to do if you want to become one.
Job Duties
Overall, most RF engineers are responsible for building and maintaining wireless communications systems.
The specific job duties of an RF engineer depend on their specialty and the industry in which they work.
However, generally, an RF engineer spends their workday doing any or all of the following:
- optimize performance of existing wireless networks
- troubleshoot and diagnose problems with wireless networks
- design RF schematics for new wireless networks
- ensure network compliance with FCC regulations
- record and report network data using spreadsheets
On a daily basis, RF engineers make use of soft skills that make them more effective at their jobs, including:
- active listening
- collaboration with others
- communication
- problem solving
- teamwork
Work Environment
Most RF engineers work in the telecommunications industry, although others work in the federal government or at an educational institution.
While they typically work indoors in offices, RF engineers may also go out in the field to diagnose and repair network problems.
This is a full-time job, with many RF engineers working more than 40 hours per week. Occasionally, RF engineers may be on call.
Working at night or on weekends can happen if an RF engineer needs to troubleshoot and repair a network problem.
Specialties
Many RF engineers go on to specialize in a specific industry or on a specific type of equipment.
Since the wireless field changes so rapidly, specialization allows RF engineers to master important technology.
For example, some RF engineers specialize in RF engineering for aerospace. Certificates are available for this specialization.
Earning a certificate in a specialty signals to potential employers that you're an expert in that particular field.
Job Outlook
With the expansion and extensive reliance on wireless telecommunications networks, RF engineers are in high demand.
Major employers of RF engineers include Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, and Intel.
Many RF engineers also work for wireless phone companies, such as Verizon or AT&T.
While overall employment of RF engineers isn't expected to increase significantly, average salaries are increasing at a higher rate.
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree
The vast majority of working RF engineers have at least a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or radio frequency.
There are introductory certificate and associate degree programs available that can get you started in this field.
However, most states require you to have at least a bachelor's degree before you can sit for the licensing exams.
Some RF engineers also have a graduate certificate or a master's degree in RF engineering or in a specific industry.
Step 2: Pass Your State Licensing Exams
RF engineers typically need to pass two different licensing exams before they can work independently as engineers.
These exams are designed to ensure that RF engineers understand and follow regulations and can do their jobs safely.
Some states also require licensing candidates to have at least a couple of years of supervised work experience before they qualify for licensure.
You must first pass the fundamentals of engineering (FE) exam before you can sit for the professional engineering (PE) exam.
Step 3: Get Your Professional Certifications
Certificates and credentials from universities or from professional associations help demonstrate your mastery of RF engineering.
While extra certificates and credentials aren't typically required by employers, they can set you apart from other candidates.
If you're planning on specializing in RF engineering in a specific industry, a certificate demonstrates your commitment to that industry.
Professional credentials and certificates could also entitle you to a higher rate of pay in your chosen industry.
Step 4: Stay Current with Continuing Education
Licenses typically need to be renewed, and your state has continuing education requirements you must meet to qualify for renewal.
Continuing education is also necessary because radio frequency technology changes rapidly.
When you stay up to date with the latest advances, you can deliver cutting-edge networks that are fast and secure.
Continuing education also alerts RF engineers to common problems with wireless networks and how to easily remedy those problems.
Learn About Becoming a Radio Frequency Engineer Today
If you're interested in becoming a radio frequency (RF) engineer, start by earning a bachelor's degree in electronics engineering or electrical engineering.
