Senior RF System Test Engineer at Shared Spectrum Vienna, VA

Job Description

Title: Senior RF System Test Engineer

Work Location: Tysons Corner (Vienna), VA

Work for a dynamic and growing company developing advanced technologies for customers with challenging radio frequency and networking needs. Our ideas and products are revolutionizing the military and commercial use of spectrum.

Position Description

Seeking a highly motivated individual who will perform as part of a dynamic team developing the next generation of commercial and military wireless networking. The successful candidate will assist in the design, integration, and testing of prototype wireless communications systems. Lead lab and field experimentation efforts, including RF hardware prototype experimentation and RF signals collection and analysis. The successful candidate will also take on responsibilities related to oversight of laboratory operations.

The work will primarily be performed in our offices in Tysons Corner; some travel to support field testing operations is possible.

• Design, organize, and lead experimentation and demonstration events across laboratory, outdoor, and field exercise events and environments. Specific responsibilities include development of test plans and procedures; conducting component and system-level testing; diagnosis and troubleshooting; setup and operation of test equipment; data collection and analysis using software tools; and documentation of system designs, configurations, and test results.
• Build and assemble hardware components and systems into prototypes, to include development of hardware designs; selection of hardware, RF, and electrical components; soldering and assembly of components (e.g., wire leads, heat sinks, sockets, faceplates, and board-level accessories); and assembling enclosures. Ability to create and analyze RF subsystem design is desired.
• Manage laboratory operations, to include coordination among projects using lab space and equipment; inspection and basic troubleshooting of lab equipment, and developing maintenance recommendations; development and maintenance of policies and procedures for use of lab space and equipment; general upkeep of lab space and equipment.

• 3+ years of related experience as a Senior RF Test Engineer or equivalent for RF communications or radar technologies or prototype systems
• Firm understanding of RF components (amplifiers, filters, cables, attenuators, etc.) and RF terms (interference, dB, dBm, inter-modulation, and noise figure); ability to identify and acquire components that meet design requirements
• Software experience related to computer controlled test equipment
• Analysis of data to include plotting and calibration using MATLAB, quality assurance of large data sets
• Experience with radio communication equipment, especially of digital communication technology
• Experience using test equipment including a spectrum analyzer, signal generator, GPS receivers testing and an oscilloscope
• Performing technical work independently as well as managing a team
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot equipment and isolate issues
• Be organized and detail oriented
• Strong verbal and written communication skills

• RF subsystem layout/design and analysis experience
• Laboratory operations management experience
• DoD field exercise experience, to include pre-event planning and coordination; field exercise participation; coordination with event planners and operators; data collection and analysis
• Planning and coordinating travel, equipment shipping, etc. for field events
• Experience working closely with US military operational organizations, especially those involved with RF communications and networking, electronic warfare, and sensor networks

• BSEE, related field, or comparable experience and training
• US citizenship required
• Prior military experience is a plus
• Must be able to attain DoD SECRET clearance
• Must be able to work outside and travel

SSC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.