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Cellular Test Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Lynk

Senior FPGA_AIE Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$107K - $146K/yr

Job Summary Lynk is developing cellular-based space payloads and seeks engineers with expertise and ... Design and test high-speed FPGA systems for satellite communication systems. * Build with AMD ...

Boingo

Staff Engineer, Network

Fairfax, VA · On-site

Requirements: * 3+ years of hands-on experience as a DAS or Cellular Field Engineer. * Familiarity ... Certifications in test equipment (e.g., Anritsu Sweep Master) and connector coring / compression ...

Inalab

Network Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

Design, test, and evaluate new network solutions and hardware. * Monitor, troubleshoot, resolve ... Cellular technology (4G/LTE, 5G) * Cellular signal automators (for signal strength, quality, signal ...

Inalab

Network Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

Design, test, and evaluate new network solutions and hardware. * Monitor, troubleshoot, resolve ... Cellular technology (4G/LTE, 5G) * Cellular signal automators (for signal strength, quality, signal ...

Inalab

Network Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

Design, test, and evaluate new network solutions and hardware. * Monitor, troubleshoot, resolve ... Cellular technology (4G/LTE, 5G) * Cellular signal automators (for signal strength, quality, signal ...

Blue Star Families

Systems Engineer

Ashburn, VA · Hybrid

Research new test equipment to improve test effectiveness and reduce quality escapes, giving our ... TCP/IP, fiber optic, cellular (3G/4G/LTE), and serial networks * WAN optimization (SCPS-TP ...

Cubic Corporation

Systems Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

Research new test equipment to improve test effectiveness and reduce quality escapes, giving our ... TCP/IP, fiber optic, cellular (3G/4G/LTE), and serial networks * WAN optimization (SCPS-TP ...

Beyond SOF

Systems Engineer - (Hybrid)

Arlington, VA · On-site

... procedures, test results, deployment recommendations, standard operating procedures (SOP ... Cellular, WiFi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, or ZWave Software Defined Radios (SDR) Microcontrollers such as:

W3Global Inc.

Embedded Software Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Design, code, integrate, test, configure, and document complete system and software solutions ... Experience with product development in standard areas such as APCO Project 25, cellular standards ...

Lynk

Wireless Engineer - Satellite

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Job Summary Lynk is developing cellular-based space payloads and seeks a Wireless Engineer to ... Develop test automation frameworks and manage CI/CD pipelines to support unit, integration, and ...

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How much do cellular test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for cellular test engineer in Virginia is $43.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.12 and $51.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges a Cellular Test Engineer might face when working with new network technologies?

Cellular Test Engineers often encounter challenges when validating and troubleshooting new network technologies like 5G or IoT protocols. These can include adapting to rapidly evolving standards, ensuring device compatibility across different carriers, and diagnosing complex issues that arise from interoperability between hardware and software. The role requires strong analytical skills and a proactive approach to learning, as well as effective communication with cross-functional teams such as hardware, software, and network operations to resolve issues efficiently. Staying up-to-date with industry developments is essential to succeed in this dynamic environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cellular Test Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cellular Test Engineer, you need a solid understanding of wireless communication principles, RF testing, and protocol analysis, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with cellular test equipment (such as spectrum analyzers, signal generators, and protocol analyzers), as well as knowledge of 3G/4G/5G standards and relevant certifications, is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help you diagnose issues and collaborate with cross-functional teams. These competencies ensure reliable device performance, regulatory compliance, and successful product launches in a rapidly evolving wireless industry.

What are Cellular Test Engineers?

Cellular Test Engineers are professionals who design, conduct, and analyze tests to ensure the quality and performance of cellular devices and networks. They work with mobile phones, modems, and network infrastructure to verify compliance with industry standards such as 3G, 4G, and 5G. Their job often involves troubleshooting, documenting test results, and collaborating with hardware and software teams to resolve issues and improve product reliability. Cellular Test Engineers play a critical role in the development and maintenance of wireless communication technologies.

What is the difference between Cellular Test Engineer vs RF Test Engineer?

AspectCellular Test EngineerRF Test Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering or related; certifications like FCC or RF testing certificationsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering; RF certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentTesting labs, R&D departments, field testing for cellular devicesTesting labs, RF labs, manufacturing facilities, field testing
Industry UsageTelecommunications, mobile device manufacturing, network providersWireless communications, telecom, RF component manufacturing
Common Search/ComparisonCellular Test Engineer vs RF Test Engineer

The Cellular Test Engineer focuses on testing cellular devices and networks, ensuring compatibility with cellular standards. The RF Test Engineer specializes in radio frequency testing, which includes a broader range of wireless technologies. While both roles require knowledge of RF principles and certifications, the Cellular Test Engineer is more specific to cellular technologies, whereas the RF Test Engineer covers a wider spectrum of wireless systems.

What are popular job titles related to Cellular Test Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Cellular Test Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cellular Test Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Cellular Test Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Cellular Test Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Cellular Test Engineer job openings:
Cellular Test Engineer jobs near you
Wireless Engineer w Travel - SECRET Clearance

Wireless Engineer w Travel - SECRET Clearance

ActioNet, Inc.

Vienna, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

Description
Wireless Engineer with Travel
Overview: The Wireless Engineer designs, installs, optimizes, and maintains mobile broadband, cellular, and WLAN systems across enterprise Base Area Networks (BAN). This role supports both legacy and modernized wireless infrastructure, ensuring maximum coverage, minimal interference, and compliance with Air Force and DoW technical, security, and spectrum standards. The Wireless Engineer contributes to system design, RF planning, troubleshooting, site surveys, documentation, and operational sustainment while collaborating with network engineering, cybersecurity, and base communications teams.
The Wireless Engineer supports the design, deployment, and optimization of 4G LTE and 5G NR (New Radio) wireless solutions across enterprise and mission environments, ensuring resilient broadband connectivity and low-latency performance for critical applications. The Wireless Engineer applies knowledge of RAN architecture, mobile core functions, and backhaul integration to ensure seamless mobility and high-availability wireless service.
Location: Remote with 15% Travel CONUS, and may need to travel OCONUS, as needed
***Secret Clearance Required***
Key Responsibilities
Wireless and Broadband System Engineering
  • Assist with the design of mobile broadband/cellular solutions across BAN environments, including antennas, power, backhaul, and spectrum utilization
  • Design enterprise WLAN infrastructure using advanced RF principles, including predictive and on-site RF modeling, heat mapping, and site surveys
  • Ensure WLAN design follows DoD/DAF RF, HERO, HERP, and HERF safety standards and spectrum certification requirements
  • Support green-field wireless designs-no legacy wireless reuse-per modernized network requirements
  • Evaluate RF propagation characteristics, building materials, multipath conditions, and flight line/industrial environment constraints

Installation, Configuration, and Integration
  • Install, configure, and test broadband, WLAN, and cellular systems in accordance with engineering design packages
  • Ensure compliance with OEM specifications, DoD STIGs, NIAP, FIPS, and applicable cybersecurity guidelines
  • Coordinate with Network Engineers to optimize system integration, traffic flows, bandwidth usage, and performance
  • Support installation of wireless infrastructure across operational facilities, maintenance hangars, warehouses, munitions areas, and flight line operations areas

Site Surveys and Spectrum Management
  • Conduct predictive, passive, active, and verification wireless site surveys (indoor and outdoor)
  • Document survey results, including RF readings, spectrum analysis, heat maps, interference sources, and channel planning
  • Ensure compliance with AFI 17-220 spectrum processes, including SCG data collection, device certification inputs, and safe RF emissions near ordnance, fuels, and personnel
  • Identify and document OSP/ISP constraints, power/grounding requirements, and environmental hazards that affect wireless deployment

Operations, Sustainment, and Troubleshooting
  • Monitor wireless system performance, availability, and security posture using approved NMS tools
  • Diagnose and resolve wireless issues involving RF interference, connectivity, hardware failures, authentication, or configuration conflicts
  • Perform preventive maintenance, firmware updates, vulnerability mitigation, and configuration optimization
  • Support Tier 2/3 wireless troubleshooting as part of shared operational responsibilities with the Base Communications Squadron

Documentation and Compliance
  • Develop and maintain technical documentation including design diagrams, RF heat maps, configuration files, and installation records
  • Ensure wireless systems meet DoD, DAF, STIG, RMF, TEMPEST, and cybersecurity standards
  • Record installation, maintenance, and repair actions for operational continuity and future reference
  • Produce required documentation deliverables, such as Wi-Fi heat maps, wireless installation descriptions, and RF assessments for transition packages

5G/LTE System Engineering
  • Designs and implements LTE and 5G RAN components, including small cells, macro cells, antennas, eNodeB/gNodeB platforms, and associated transport networks.
  • Performs RF engineering tasks for 5G and LTE systems, including waveform analysis, MIMO/Antenna configuration, carrier aggregation, and spectrum allocation.
  • Supports integration of 5G Standalone (SA) and Non-Standalone (NSA) architectures into existing enterprise networks.
  • Evaluates and configures 5G core functions such as AMF, SMF, UPF, AUSF, NRF, and interfaces (N1-N4, N6-N14, etc.) for mission needs.
  • Optimizes throughput, coverage, and reliability using drive testing, RF measurements, SINR/RSRP/RSRQ analysis, and spectrum monitoring.

5G/LTE Operations and Testing
  • Installs, configures, and validates LTE and 5G radios, including DAS systems, small cells, and private cellular networks.
  • Performs acceptance testing using tools such as spectrum analyzers, RF scanners, UE testing platforms, and OEM management systems.
  • Conducts testing of new cellular technologies, including network slicing, edge computing capabilities (MEC), and 5G security features before deployment.
  • Troubleshoots cellular service issues involving signaling failures, handover performance, RF interference, mobility challenges, and core-radio integration.

Collaboration and Compliance
  • Works with spectrum management authorities to ensure proper frequency licensing and compliance for LTE and 5G deployments.
  • Ensures 5G/LTE systems comply with DoD/DAF cybersecurity requirements, including STIG, RMF, FIPS, and Zero-Trust Architecture considerations.

Required Qualifications
Education
  • Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline, such as computer science, engineering, information technology, cybersecurity, data science, or related OR
  • High school diploma or associate degree with 7 years performing as a Broadband/Wireless Engineer on large, complex networks.

Experience
  • 5 years of experience with broadband, wireless, or enterprise network engineering.
  • Demonstrated experience in WLAN RF design, enterprise wireless planning, and advanced wireless troubleshooting
  • Experience designing and supporting TCP/IP networks, including switching, routing, QoS, NAC, NMS, and OSP/ISP distribution systems
  • Experience with LTE EPC and 5G Core (5GC) architectures, protocols (S1/X2, NG, N2/N3), and mobility operations
  • Proficiency with RF and cellular tools such as CellAdvisor, TEMS, Nemo, PCTEL scanners, or similar
  • Working knowledge of network slicing, beamforming, MIMO technologies, and private cellular networks (CBRS/OnGo)

Technical Skills
  • Proficient in broadband and wireless technologies, including 802.11 standards, RF engineering, spectrum analysis, and wireless security
  • Strong understanding of network protocols, infrastructure, and enterprise architecture
  • Skilled in MS Office Suite, Teams, and SharePoint
  • Experience with wireless design tools (e.g., Ekahau, AirMagnet) and network performance monitoring systems
  • Familiarity with DoD cybersecurity controls, STIGs, ACAS scanning, and RMF processes

Certifications
  • CCNA, JNCIA, or equivalent
  • CompTIA Security+ (required for DoD 8140 compliance)
  • Additional wireless certifications, such as CWNA or CWDP, are desirable

Preferred Certifications
  • 3GPP 5G/LTE certifications (Nokia, Ericsson, Cisco, Samsung, Verizon, AT&T training)
  • CBRS Certified Professional Installer (CPI)
  • Certified Wireless Specialist - Cellular (CWS, CWSA)

Clearance
  • Active Secret Clearance required

Desired Attributes
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to diagnose and resolve wireless/system faults quickly and efficiently
  • Strong communication skills for coordination with engineering teams, base communications units, and operational leadership
  • Ability to work in high-security, mission-critical environments with strict standards and oversight
  • Detail-oriented, with strong documentation and compliance discipline

About ActioNet
ActioNet is a CMMI-DEV Level 4, CMMI-SVC Level 4, ISO 20000, ISO 27001, ISO 9001, HDI-certified, woman-owned IT solutions provider with 25+ years of stellar performance. Our expertise spans Agile Software Engineering, Cloud Solutions, Cybersecurity, and IT Managed Services.
With a 98% customer retention rate, ActioNet is proud to be named a Top Workplace for 11 consecutive years (2014-2024).Why ActioNet?At ActioNet, our Passion for Quality is at the heart of everything we do:Commitment to Employees: A great place to work with ongoing investment in our people.Commitment to Customers: Driving and sustaining service delivery excellence.Commitment to Community: Giving back and building a better world for future generations.What's in It for You?
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Savings Plan
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) & 11 Paid Holidays
  • Life and Disability Insurance
  • Education and Professional Training
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Employee Recognition and Referral Programs
  • Employee Assistance & Identity Theft Protection
  • Equal Opportunity Statement

ActioNet is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

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