A Radio Frequency (RF) Engineer works with technology and electronic equipment that uses radio waves, from cell phones to radio stations. Designs, installs, and repairs systems and equipment that transmit radio signals. May specialize in design or maintenance; may focus on the design of transmission equipment, such as radio antennae, or manage larger systems such as networks of cell phone towers.
RF Software Engineer Riverside Research United States, Virginia, Fairfax Aug 18, 2026 RF Software Engineer
Location US-VA-Fairfax
ID 2026-4343
Category Engineering Position Type Full Time Salary Riverside Overview Riverside Research is an independent National Security Nonprofit dedicated to research and development in the national interest. We provide high-end technical services, research and development, and prototype solutions to some of the country's most challenging technical problems. All Riverside Research opportunities require U.S. Citizenship. Position Overview Riverside Research is seeking a skilled and motivated RF Software Research Engineer to join our Spectrum Warfare Innovation (SWI) group. SWI combines state-of-the-art research with quick reaction prototyping to deliver modernized, tactical radio frequency (RF) and electronic warfare (EW) capability to national security customers. In this role, you will lead and execute implementation of cutting-edge RF algorithms and software systems, and support prototype integration. As a lead technical contributor, you will be responsible for ensuring transition of early feasibility code to well-architected software products through application of modern software development practices. The ideal candidate will have experience working in dynamic R D environments, from ideation through execution. The candidate should have a track record of outside-the-box problem-solving, a spirit for interdisciplinary collaboration, and the ability to clearly document and articulate technical designs. The candidate should have expertise in software development and experience with at least one of the following technical application areas: RF signal processing (radar and/or communications)
RF modeling and simulation
RF autonomy / cognitive tactical systems
Sensor algorithm development
Implementation on low size, weight, and power devices Responsibilities Design, build, test, deploy, and maintain software systems and applications that support business objectives. Contribute across the full engineering lifecycle-creating and improving products, services, standards, and procedures-while working independently with ownership of daily priorities and potential responsibility for guiding team members
Design software architecture; write, test, and optimize code; fix bugs; enhance performance; and develop new features based on user and business needs.
Collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary teams to develop integrated systems
Document and communicate design decisions, technical challenges, and progress to internal stakeholders.
Assists in establishing and maintaining standards and best practices for software development
Other duties as assigned Qualifications Required Qualifications Must be a US Citizen
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI Security Clearance
Education and Experience:
Bachelor's in STEM field with 5+ years of experience, or
Master's in STEM field with 3+ years of experience, or
PhD in STEM field.
Relevant years of experience may be substituted in lieu of a degree
Expertise in one of the following areas:
DSP architecture
Embedded software development
RF signal processing
RF modeling and simulation
Proficient with programming languages, e.g. C/C++ and/or Python
Proficient with software version control (Git) and Continuous Integration / Continuous Development (CI/CD) principles.
Proficient with typical digital laboratory equipment (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers)
Self-driven with strong analytic, inferencing, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving skills
Strong written and verbal communications skills
Ability to operate independently with limited supervision and feedback
Ability to establish a solid working relationship with technical staff and peers in the group and across Riverside Research.
Must be able to lift nominal weights, work on uneven terrain, stand for long hours, and/or similar for working in the laboratory and/or field.
Able to travel (