RF Test Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: RF Test Engineer

Job Description

The RF Test Engineer designs, executes, and automates RF test plans for components, modules, and systems, ensuring accurate measurement, thorough characterization, and reliable validation of RF performance. This role focuses on RF bench testing, test automation, troubleshooting complex RF setups, and supporting design verification, qualification, and production release activities.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and execute RF test plans, procedures, and test cases for RF components, modules, and systems.
• Perform RF measurements and set up RF measurement fixtures, cables, adapters, and related hardware for accurate testing.
• Automate bench measurements using tools such as Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW, or similar test automation software.
• Design and maintain test scripts, data logging tools, and report generation workflows to streamline RF test execution and reporting.
• Troubleshoot RF test setups, fixtures, cables, adapters, and measurement errors to ensure reliable and repeatable results.
• Correlate lab measurement results with simulation data and design expectations to validate RF performance.
• Support design verification, qualification, and production release testing for RF and microwave hardware.
• Analyze failures and lead root-cause investigations for RF performance issues in circuits, PCBs, and systems.
• Maintain strong calibration awareness and discipline around measurement uncertainty to uphold test accuracy and integrity.
• Create clear documentation for test procedures, test results, and detailed engineering reports.
• Support environmental, thermal, shock, vibration, TVAC, HALT, HASS, and ALT testing as required for RF hardware qualification.
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams by providing test data, insights, and recommendations based on RF characterization.
• Use RF lab equipment such as vector network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, vector signal generators, and oscilloscopes to conduct measurements.
• Read and interpret schematics, block diagrams, and datasheets to plan tests and troubleshoot RF circuits and PCBs.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in RF or microwave testing, characterization, or validation.
• Strong understanding of RF fundamentals and radio frequency hardware behavior.
• Hands-on experience with RF lab equipment such as vector network analyzers (VNA), spectrum analyzers, vector signal generators, and oscilloscopes.
• Experience performing RF measurements and setting up RF measurement fixtures and test equipment.
• Proficiency with test automation and scripting, particularly using Python.
• Ability to read and interpret schematics, block diagrams, and component datasheets.
• Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills for RF circuits, PCBs, and test setups.
• Ability to troubleshoot and debug issues in RF circuits or PCBs and related hardware.
• Good written and verbal communication skills for documenting procedures, reports, and collaborating with engineering teams.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with test automation software and tools beyond Python, such as MATLAB or LabVIEW.
• Experience in RF test execution, test equipment operation, and RF hardware characterization.
• Familiarity with environmental, shock, vibration, thermal, and TVAC testing for RF hardware.
• Experience with HALT, HASS, and ALT testing methodologies.
• Ability to create detailed test reports and engineering documentation.
• Experience supporting design verification, qualification, and production release testing.
• Calibration awareness and understanding of measurement uncertainty in RF test environments.

Work Environment

This is an onsite role based in Redmond, working in a hands-on RF lab and hardware test environment. You will regularly use RF test equipment such as vector network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, vector signal generators, oscilloscopes, and various fixtures, cables, and adapters. The work involves bench testing, environmental and stress testing, and close collaboration with engineering teams. The role offers a significant opportunity to contribute to advanced RF testing initiatives and build your resume with impactful, cutting-edge RF test experience.

This is a Contract position based out of Redmond, WA.

The pay range for this position is $55.00 - $70.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Redmond,WA.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 25, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on ziprecruiter.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.