RF Test Engineer
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced and driven RF Test Engineer to support the development, deployment, validation, and optimization of advanced RF automated test systems for next-generation communications hardware. This role combines hands-on technical expertise with close collaboration across engineering, production, and test development teams to ensure high-performance RF products are successfully validated and transitioned into manufacturing environments.
The ideal candidate will play a key role in the design-for-test (DFT) and design-for-manufacturing (DFM) process by providing technical input throughout the product development lifecycle. This position is responsible for RF automated test equipment (ATE) commissioning, performance validation, KPI monitoring, troubleshooting, and trend analysis while serving as a bridge between production operations, test engineering, and hardware development teams.
Key Responsibilities
Bring up, commission, and validate RF automated test systems used for communications hardware testing
Qualify and verify RF test system performance against engineering specifications and operational requirements
Provide design-for-test (DFT) and design-for-manufacturing (DFM) feedback during product and test system development
Monitor and analyze RF performance metrics, identifying trends, anomalies, and outliers that may impact product quality or manufacturing efficiency
Generate routine reports detailing RF test results, performance indicators, risks, and recommendations
Perform hands-on calibration, validation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of RF automated test systems
Support root cause investigations of RF performance issues across test, manufacturing, and engineering environments
Collaborate with cross-functional teams including production, test engineering, manufacturing, and hardware development groups
Assist with the development and deployment of new RF test methodologies, procedures, and validation processes
Drive continuous improvement initiatives for RF test workflows, automation processes, and operational efficiency
Ensure compliance with established quality standards and testing procedures
Support the successful transfer of new products and technologies from development into production
Qualifications
Education:
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Telecommunications Engineering, Physics, or a related technical discipline
Equivalent combination of education and relevant industry experience may be considered
Experience:
Minimum 5 years of experience testing RF communications, wireless systems, radar systems, or related technologies
At least 3 years of hands-on experience working with RF laboratory test equipment and automated test equipment (ATE)
Experience supporting product validation, manufacturing test environments, or production test operations
Experience troubleshooting RF systems and interpreting test results to identify performance issues
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience supporting aerospace, satellite communications, wireless communications, or other high-reliability electronic systems
Experience developing or deploying automated RF testing solutions
Familiarity with design-for-test (DFT) and design-for-manufacturing (DFM) methodologies
Experience analyzing RF performance trends and manufacturing yield metrics
Experience working in high-volume production or advanced engineering laboratory environments
Understanding of quality systems, process control methodologies, and continuous improvement practices
Knowledge of RF subsystem integration and validation processes
Soft Skills:
Strong sense of ownership, accountability, and execution
Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Strong interpersonal and cross-functional collaboration abilities
Analytical mindset with strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
Attention to detail and commitment to technical accuracy
Ability to identify risks and proactively drive solutions
Self-motivated with a continuous improvement mindset
Technology Stack:
RF automated test equipment (ATE)
Vector Network Analyzers (VNA)
Spectrum Analyzers
Signal Generators
RF calibration and validation tools
RF test methodologies including gain, loss, noise figure, linearity, flatness, and intermodulation measurements
Data analysis and reporting tools
Manufacturing and engineering test platforms
Microsoft Office Suite
Physical Requirements
Ability to work in a laboratory and office environment while using a computer for extended periods
Ability to perform hands-on work with RF test equipment, hardware systems, and automated test platforms
Ability to review technical documentation, engineering reports, and test data
Ability to work onsite a minimum of four days per week, with remote work flexibility based on business needs
Ability to support laboratory-based testing and troubleshooting activities as required
May require standing, walking, and moving equipment within a laboratory environment
This job description may not be inclusive to the duties and responsibilities listed. Additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time or the scope of the job may change as needed by business demands.