RF Technician

Position Summary

The RF Technician is responsible for tuning, testing, and verifying RF filters and oscillators to ensure they meet customer specifications. This role involves tuning various RF filters including lumped element (LC) filters, crystal filters, and cavity‑based filters, as well as RF oscillators (TCXOs, VCXOs, OCXOs). The technician also performs environmental tests to verify compliance with customer requirements.

 

Job Duties and Responsibilities

 

• Read and follow procedures exactly as written
• Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) including established work instructions
• Understand and follow all ESD (electrostatic discharge) procedures
• Use computer and/or manually record data as needed
• Perform environmental testing (vibration, mechanical shock, thermal shock, etc.)
• Take direction from supervisor and senior team members
• Maintain a safe and clean working environment by adhering to GMP
• Use hand tools such as torque tools and calipers
• Follow safe guidelines for chemical use and storage
• Understand and use leak detection equipment (gross and fine)

 

• Use various test equipment: network/spectrum analyzers, frequency counters, mixers, power meters, etc.
• Tune various RF filters (LC, crystal, cavity‑based)
• Perform basic oscillator setup for frequency and output power (SOT components)
• Work independently in the main work area
• Update tracking boards and floor queues as needed
• Assist in preparing and lining up work for Technician I personnel

 

• Cross‑trained within own department and able to work in other filter production areas
• Handle and tune all space‑level filters and difficult (high frequency) models
• Perform setup on difficult, high‑frequency oscillator devices requiring multiple SOT components
• Perform common troubleshooting for oscillator/filter products (e.g., determining incorrect component values, number of coil turns, etc.)
• Perform full setups for various tests including IM, phase noise, operation under vibration, etc.

 

• Work with process/design engineering to suggest process or product changes to improve throughput and yield
• Perform advanced troubleshooting
• For oscillator products: troubleshoot circuits to component level using schematics and measurement equipment
• For filter products: determine grounding issues, resolve test fixture and test method problems, calibration issues, and complex assembly/component value problems
• Periodically check with peers or line leads to support other functions
• Mentor junior technicians

 

• Recognized as subject matter expert in assigned area
• Typically acts as area lead with additional responsibilities: assigning work, inspections, system transactions, and other similar duties
• Train junior technicians

Supervises:  None

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

Technician I

• Understanding of electrical and electronic circuits
• Ability to read and understand electrical schematics
• Ability to speak and read English clearly
• Computer literacy
• Ability to work well within a team
• Organized and reliable
• Accountable for addressing issues to supervisor
• Understanding of basic tools and testing equipment

Technician II  (all skills from I, plus)

• Ability to switch tasks between multiple areas as needed

Technician III  (all skills from II, plus)

• Ability to be easily cross‑trained in other test/tuning functions
• Exceptional communication with peers, supervisors, and engineering teams

Technician IV  (all skills from III, plus)

• Complete mastery of procedures and processes in assigned areas (oscillators and/or filters)

Technician V  (all skills from IV, plus)

• Ability to direct others
• Computer skills for system transactions and data entry

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive wage based on experience
• Annual bonus based on company and individual goals
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) savings plan
• Paid time off
• Life insurance at no cost to the associate
• Short‑term and long‑term disability at no cost to the associate
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development