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Cellular Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Engineering Group, Engineering Group > Cellular System Test Engineering General Summary: As a member of QCT's Modem System Test group, candidate will be responsible for verifying physical layer and ...

QA Test Engineer

Reston, VA

$43 - $58.75/hr

... dedicated QA or Test Engineering rolesupporting release ofproduction webapps. * Hands-on ... Map-based, geospatial, or IoT telemetry UI; cellular systems exposure. * Docker-based test ...

QA Test Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$43 - $58.75/hr

... dedicated QA or Test Engineering rolesupporting release ofproduction webapps. * Hands-on ... Map-based, geospatial, or IoT telemetry UI; cellular systems exposure. * Docker-based test ...

They are seeking an entry level Test Engineer to support internal telematics device testing tools ... with cellular modems, GPS technology, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth/BLE Company : CalAmp is a telematics ...

Job Summary As a RF Systems Test Engineer at Lynk, you will wear many hats in the world of RF ... Experience working with GSM/LTE/NR communications and cellular backhaul networks ITAR Requirements ...

As a Staff Systems Test Engineer, you will apply systematic and innovative testing approaches ... Knowledge of cellular, WiFi, RF, or other communication network technologies Benefits Info: This ...

We're looking for a RF Test Engineer to join the Spectacles team! What you'll do: * Develop test ... Understanding the test methodology for wireless standards such as WiFi, Bluetooth, BLE, cellular ...

We're looking for a RF Test Engineer to join the Spectacles team! What you'll do: * Develop test ... Understanding the test methodology for wireless standards such as WiFi, Bluetooth, BLE, cellular ...

We're looking for a RF Test Engineer to join the Spectacles team! What you'll do: * Develop test ... Understanding the test methodology for wireless standards such as WiFi, Bluetooth, BLE, cellular ...

As a Staff Systems Test Engineer, you will apply systematic and innovative testing approaches ... Knowledge of cellular, WiFi, RF, or other communication network technologies Benefits Info: This ...

We're looking for a RF Test Engineer to join the Spectacles team! What you'll do: * Develop test ... Understanding the test methodology for wireless standards such as WiFi, Bluetooth, BLE, cellular ...

We're looking for a RF Test Engineer to join the Spectacles team! What you'll do: * Develop test ... Understanding the test methodology for wireless standards such as WiFi, Bluetooth, BLE, cellular ...

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Cellular Test Engineer information

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$44

$74

How much do cellular test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for cellular test engineer in the United States is $44.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.41 and $52.40 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 is a cellular test engineer?

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.

More about Cellular Test Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Cellular Test Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Cellular Test Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Cellular Test Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Cellular Test Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cellular Test Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cellular Test Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Cellular Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,027 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Modem Systems Test Engineer

Qualcomm

San Diego, CA • On-site

$89K - $133K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Qualcomm rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 242 rated software companies


Job description

Company:
Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.
Job Area:
Engineering Group, Engineering Group > Cellular System Test Engineering
General Summary:
As a member of QCT's Modem System Test group, candidate will be responsible for verifying physical layer and/or protocol requirements for complex digital modem products supporting 5G/4G cellular technologies. The candidate will define, develop, and execute advanced test methodologies for validating end-to-end system level performance/functionality across the mobile protocol stack (PHY, MAC/RLC/PDCP, RRC, NAS, Data, TCP-IP/UDP). He or she will analyze 3GPP/Carrier device specifications, corelate with modem system/software requirements and translate them into effective test designs. Major components of this position would be system level feature integration and test, developing/executing test strategies and test plans, and investigating/triaging modem stack issues.
Responsibilities will also include defining modem Key performance Indicators, conducting modem performance evaluation, and optimizing system performance based on analysis of data from both lab (radiated/conducted) and live commercial 5G networks. Candidate will be working with a multi-discipline team (Software Development, System Design, Customer Support, HW Design, RF Design, etc.) to integrate, test, certify and commercialize 5G products in worldwide markets.
  • Preferred Qualifications
    - Background or coursework in Digital communications systems, Signal Processing, RF propagation, CDMA, OFDM, telecommunications
    - Understanding of Physical layer procedures such as signal detection, channel estimation, link adaptation, mmW beam refinement, massive MIMO, etc.
    - Understanding of MAC layers and Call Processing concepts.
    - Familiarity with air interface performance analysis, characterization, and optimization
    - Exposure to commercial test simulators and test systems such as: Keysight, Anritsu, R&S and Spirent for wireless product verification.
    - Experience and knowledge of GCF, PTCRB or carrier certification requirements for Product Technical Acceptance with Wireless Carriers
    - Exposure to 5G Infrastructure vendor (Ericsson, Nokia, Huawei, ZTE, SS) specific 5GNR call flows
    - Mobile device test experience with 5G/4G Operators or with commercial handset OEMs.
    - Understanding of software development and testing concepts for wireless handsets for various air interface standards.
    - Exposure to programming in Java, Python, and shell scripting.
    - Communication skills, effective team player, ability to work independently

Minimum Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or related field.
Applicants: Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer. If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation during the application/hiring process, rest assured that Qualcomm is committed to providing an accessible process. You may e-mail disability-accomodations@qualcomm.com or call Qualcomm's toll-free number found here. Upon request, Qualcomm will provide reasonable accommodations to support individuals with disabilities to be able participate in the hiring process. Qualcomm is also committed to making our workplace accessible for individuals with disabilities. (Keep in mind that this email address is used to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. We will not respond here to requests for updates on applications or resume inquiries).
To all Staffing and Recruiting Agencies: Our Careers Site is only for individuals seeking a job at Qualcomm. Staffing and recruiting agencies and individuals being represented by an agency are not authorized to use this site or to submit profiles, applications or resumes, and any such submissions will be considered unsolicited. Qualcomm does not accept unsolicited resumes or applications from agencies. Please do not forward resumes to our jobs alias, Qualcomm employees or any other company location. Qualcomm is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes/applications.
EEO Employer: Qualcomm is an equal opportunity employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or any other protected classification.
Qualcomm expects its employees to abide by all applicable policies and procedures, including but not limited to security and other requirements regarding protection of Company confidential information and other confidential and/or proprietary information, to the extent those requirements are permissible under applicable law.
Pay range and Other Compensation & Benefits:
$89,000.00 - $133,600.00
The above pay scale reflects the broad, minimum to maximum, pay scale for this job code for the location for which it has been posted. Even more importantly, please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Qualcomm. We also offer a competitive annual discretionary bonus program and opportunity for annual RSU grants (employees on sales-incentive plans are not eligible for our annual bonus). In addition, our highly competitive benefits package is designed to support your success at work, at home, and at play. Your recruiter will be happy to discuss all that Qualcomm has to offer - and you can review more details about our US benefits at this link.
If you would like more information about this role, please contact Qualcomm Careers.

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About Qualcomm

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Qualcomm is enabling a world where everyone and everything can be intelligently connected. You interact with products and technologies made possible by Qualcomm every day, including 5G-enabled smartphones that double as pro-level cameras and gaming devices, smarter vehicles and cities, and the technology behind the smart, connected factories that manufactured your latest purchase. Our powerful connectivity solutions keep you connected—even in remote areas. Qualcomm 5G and AI innovations are the power behind the connected intelligent edge. You’ll find our technologies behind and inside the innovations that deliver significant value across multiple industries and to billions of people every day.

Industry

Technology, communication and media

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1985