Freelance Rf Communications Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Technical Support & Radio Repair Technician
General Summary
Responsible for executing test methodologies for various technologies, with a strong focus on two-way radios and RF test equipment. This role involves following, adapting, and helping to define established procedures as needed. The technician will deliver technical support for hardware and software systems, debug and troubleshoot issues or failures, perform hands-on radio repairs, report results, and recommend root causes and solutions. Additional responsibilities include the set-up, maintenance, and repair of specialized test equipment, as well as providing input on equipment selection.
A unique combination of strong knowledge in two-way radios and RF communications is essential, alongside solid computer and networking skills. Candidates must possess good verbal and written English communication abilities, general PC proficiency, and the capability to read and easily understand technical specifications.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
Executes test plans for various technologies, including RF and radio communications, and provides feedback to customers on outcomes or issues. Makes recommendations for modifications to plans.
Provides dedicated technical support and troubleshooting for radio equipment, taking proactive measures to prevent recurring issues.
Diagnoses hardware and software faults in two-way radios and executes necessary repairs.
Performs set-up of specialized test equipment, as well as loading and running programs or builds. Provides input on equipment selection.
Performs calibration, maintenance, and upgrades of test equipment and tools according to standards and procedures.
Identifies issues with both test equipment and radio hardware, and performs moderately complex repairs.
Tests and debugs circuit boards and computer software.
Executes test methodologies for various technologies, following and adapting established procedures as needed, and documents results.
Debugs and troubleshoots moderately complex testing issues or failures and recommends root causes and solutions.
Conducts advanced analyses and gathers information to identify where an issue has occurred and makes recommendations for how to address the issue.
Collaborates with individuals inside own team and with other teams to complete project work.
Communicates with team lead to provide status and information about impending obstacles and recommends solutions.
Manages individual project priorities, deadlines, and deliverables with guidance.
Adapts to significant changes and setbacks in order to manage pressure and meet deadlines.
Conducts quality assurance checks on all repaired and tested two-way radios prior to final approval.
Requires verbal and written communication skills to convey basic, routine factual information about day-to-day activities to others who are fully knowledgeable in the subject area.
Most tasks require multiple steps which can be performed in various orders; some planning and prioritization must occur to complete the tasks effectively; mistakes may result in some rework.
Some creativity may be required to troubleshoot technical problems or deal with novel circumstances.
Deductive problem solving is required to solve moderately complex problems; most problems have defined processes of diagnosis/detection; some limited data analysis may be required.
Minimum Qualifications
1+ year of testing, QC, measurement, technical support, or related work experience.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Excel spreadsheets.
Preferred Qualifications
Associate's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
1 to 3+ years of electronics, semiconductor, RF testing, radio repair, or related work experience.
Strong working knowledge of two-way radios and RF communications theory.
Must-Have Qualifications:
High School Diploma or equivalent.
At least 1-3 years of hands-on experience in testing, measurement, technical support, or a closely related field.
Core Technical Skills
A strong, demonstrated understanding of two-way radios and RF (Radio Frequency) communications.
The capability to read, interpret, and easily understand technical specifications and testing procedures.
Software & PC Skills
Experience in Microsoft Excel (for data tracking, reporting, and analysis).
Solid general computer/PC operating knowledge and basic networking skills.
Communication
Good verbal and written English communication abilities to accurately document test results, log repairs, and relay technical information to the team.
Software Proficiency:
Basic coding skills, excel functions is a plus
Notes:
Onsite
This is a contract role with the possibility of conversion to full-time based on business needs and performance
VIVA is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants have an equal opportunity for placement, and all employees have an equal opportunity to develop on the job. This means that VIVA will not discriminate against any employee or qualified applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status