As of March 01, 2026, the average salary for a RF Engineer V in the United States is $177,633 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $85.
However, a RF Engineer V's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A RF Engineer V's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a RF Engineer V's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| RF Engineer III | 4-7 years | $120,760 |
| RF Engineer IV | 7+ years | $143,788 |
| RF Engineer V | 7-10 years | $177,615 |
| Radio Frequency Design Engineer VI | 10-12 years | $236,839 |
| Radio Frequency Design Engineering Manager | 12+ years | $181,373 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract RF Engineer Vs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 18.82% |
| Systems Analysis | 2.35% |
| Computer Science | 1.47% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Commitment
|
$186,515 |
5%
|
|
Adaptability
|
$184,738 |
4%
|
|
Systems Analysis
|
$184,738 |
4%
|
|
Schematic
|
$184,738 |
4%
|
|
Calibration
|
$184,738 |
4%
|
|
Aviation
|
$184,738 |
4%
|
Understanding how a RF Engineer V's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on March 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a RF Engineer V, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Digital Signal Processing Engineer VI | $217,100 | 22% |
| EE VI | $200,800 | 13% |
| Electronic Systems Engineer VI | $221,400 | 25% |
| Radio Frequency Design Engineer VI | $236,900 | 33% |
Salaries for a RF Engineer V can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $175,618 in 2023 to around $166,350 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of RF Engineer V salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $175,618 |
| 2024 | $171,894 |
| 2025 | $166,350 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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The highest paying engineer role is that of an RF Engineer, with a salary range reflecting significant earning potential. The minimum salary starts at $173,363, while the mid-level salary is approximately $188,333. For experienced professionals, the maximum salary can reach up to $201,623, making it a lucrative career choice in the engineering field.
The highest reported salary for an RF Engineer is $201,623. The top 10% of RF Engineers earn more than $188,333 annually, while the top 1% exceed $173,363. This data highlights the lucrative potential in the RF engineering field, reflecting the demand for skilled professionals in this area.
To become an RF Engineer, a Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering is essential, with a Master's or Ph.D. preferred. RF Engineers design components like amplifiers, filters, and antennas. The salary range for this role typically falls between $173,363 and $201,623, with a median salary of $188,333.
An RF Engineer at Apple can expect a salary range from approximately $173,363 to $201,623, with a median salary around $188,333. This compensation reflects the skills and expertise required for the role in a competitive tech environment.
Yes, an RF Engineer is a specialized branch of electrical engineering. They focus on the design and application of devices that utilize radio signals, covering a frequency range from about 20 kHz to 300 GHz. In terms of compensation, RF Engineers can expect salaries ranging from $173,363 to $201,623, with a median salary of $188,333.
Yes, there is a shortage of RF engineers. The U.S. is expected to need 5,100 broadcast engineers in the next decade, driven by the retirement of 6,200 professionals. This gap highlights the demand for RF expertise, with salaries ranging from $173,363 to $201,623, reflecting the critical need for skilled engineers in this field.
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