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Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer Jobs in Budd Lake, NJ

Nokia

Photonic Test Engineer

Murray Hill, NJ

As a Photonic Test Engineer, you will develop automated manufacturing test solutions and provide ... Hands-on experience with RF test and measurement instruments: Power Meters, Spectrum Analysers ...

Biztech Inc

RF Test Technician

Denville, NJ · On-site

$27 - $35/hr

Interpret electrical schematics, engineering documentation, manufacturing instructions, and test procedures. * Analyze RF and DC test data including voltage, current, power, insertion loss, and ...

AditiStaffing

RF Engineer

Warren, NJ · On-site

RF Engineer Duration: 06+ months with a possible extension based on your performance (only W2 ... Analyze propagation modeling and "drive test" measurements and make recommendations for site ...

AditiStaffing

RF Engineer

Bridgewater, NJ · On-site

RF Design Engineer ( RF Design and Optimization) Location: Bridgewater, NJ Duration: 12+ months ... Analyze propagation modeling and "drive test" measurements and make recommendations for site ...

SGS U.S. Holding Inc.

Field Test Engineer

Branchburg, NJ

$50K - $80K/yr

ArcLight Wireless is a world-class provider of RF systems engineering, network services, and technical expertise for the cutting-edge companies in the wireless industry. We offer field test services ...

SGS

Field Test Engineer

Branchburg, NJ · On-site

$50K - $80K/yr

ArcLight Wireless is a world-class provider of RF systems engineering, network services, and technical expertise for the cutting-edge companies in the wireless industry. We offer field test services ...

mercury

RF Test Technician III

West Caldwell, NJ

May assist engineers with new design and development activities including prototyping and first article units * Conduct manual and automated production tests on RF semiconductor components * Develop ...

BAE Systems

Eng Sr - Test

Wayne, NJ · On-site

$105K - $179K/yr

BAE Systems is looking for a Senior Systems Test Engineer to join our Systems Engineering (SE ... Experienced in using RF test instrumentation (Network Analyzer, Spectrum Analyzer, Signal ...

BAE Systems

Eng Sr - Test

Wayne, NJ · On-site

$105K - $179K/yr

Design of analog, power, digital, and RF circuits * Design of complex interconnects and cables ... Interface with Engineering, Operations, Quality and other supporting functions to drive defect ...

Barclays

Test Engineer AVP

Whippany, NJ · On-site

They will also be expected to demonstrate the Barclays Mindset - to Empower, Challenge and Drive ... Barclays Services Corp. seeks Test Engineer AVP in Whippany, NJ (multiple positions available)

BCforward

R&D Test Engineer

Franklin, NJ · On-site

$45/hr

R&D Test Engineer 11/7/2016- 11/7/2017 1 Becton Drive, Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417 United States $45/hr on W2 Qualifications: on testing of electromechanical and/or fluidic systems Experience writing ...

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Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer information

See Budd Lake, NJ salary details

$37.9K

$120.6K

$187.5K

How much do freelance rf drive test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance rf drive test engineer in Budd Lake, NJ is $120,596.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,900.00 and $142,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance RF drive test engineer?

Freelance RF Drive Test Engineers are independent professionals who specialize in testing and optimizing the performance of wireless networks. They use specialized equipment to collect data on signal strength, coverage, and quality by driving through designated routes or walking in specific areas. Their findings help telecom companies identify network issues, improve coverage, and enhance user experience. Working as freelancers, they take on projects from various clients and may operate in different locations as needed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance RF drive test engineer?

To thrive as a Freelance RF Drive Test Engineer, you need a solid understanding of wireless communication principles, RF measurement techniques, and a relevant degree in telecommunications or electrical engineering. Familiarity with drive test tools such as TEMS, Nemo, or Agilent, as well as proficiency in data analysis software, is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate findings clearly are important soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate network performance assessment, effective troubleshooting, and clear reporting, all of which are critical for optimizing wireless networks.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance RF drive test engineers and how can they be addressed?

Freelance RF Drive Test Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing variable project schedules, adapting to different client requirements, and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of testing tools and technologies. To address these, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, stay proactive in communication with clients, and regularly invest time in learning about the latest RF equipment and software. Flexibility and a willingness to travel are also crucial, as projects may require work in diverse geographic locations or environments. Building a reliable network with other engineers and industry professionals can help secure steady work and provide support when facing technical or logistical issues.

What is the difference between Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer vs Rf Network Optimization Engineer?

AspectFreelance Rf Drive Test EngineerRf Network Optimization Engineer
CredentialsTechnical certifications, relevant experienceCertifications in network optimization, technical background
Work EnvironmentField testing, on-site data collectionOffice-based, data analysis, planning
Employer & Industry UsageContract roles, telecom providers, testing companiesTelecom operators, network service providers

The Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer primarily conducts on-site drive tests to collect network performance data, often working independently or on contract. In contrast, the Rf Network Optimization Engineer focuses on analyzing data to improve network quality, usually working within a company's team. Both roles require technical certifications and industry knowledge, but their daily tasks and work environments differ significantly.

Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer jobs near you

Photonic Test Engineer

Murray Hill, NJ

Nokia
Media and Telecom • 10K+ employees

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 99 rated telecommunications companies

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Good training

Learn more about Nokiaexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

We are looking for a highly motivated professional with a solid understanding of Manufacturing Test Engineering. As a Photonic Test Engineer, you will develop automated manufacturing test solutions and provide technical support to our manufacturing partners. You will be a part of an international test development team, embedded in a worldwide Optical Research and Development organization. 

Advancing connectivity to secure a brighter world.

Nokia is a global leader in connectivity for the AI era. With expertise across fixed, mobile and transport networks, powered by the innovation of Nokia Bell Labs, we're advancing connectivity to secure a brighter world. 

Learn more about life at Nokia.


Our recruitment process

We act inclusively and respect the uniqueness of people. Our employment decisions are made regardless of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. We are committed to a culture of inclusion built upon our core value of respect.

If you're interested in this role but don't meet every listed requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences enrich our teams, and you may be just the right candidate for this or another opportunity.

The length of the recruitment process may vary depending on the specific role's requirements. We strive to ensure a smooth and inclusive experience for all candidates. Discover more about the recruitment process at Nokia. 

Some of our benefits in US:
  • Corporate Retirement Savings Plan
  • Health and dental benefits
  • Short-term disability, and long-term disability
  • Life insurance, and AD&D - Company paid 2x base pay
  • Optional or Supplemental life and AD&D insurance (Employee/Spouse/Child)
  • Paid time off for holidays and Vacation
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Tuition Assistance Plan
  • Adoption assistance
  • Employee Assistance Program/Work Life Resource Program

The above benefits exclude students.


Disclaimer for US/Canada

Nokia Maintains broad annual base salary ranges for its roles in order to account for variations in knowledge, skills, experience and market conditions, and with consideration to internal peer equity. Check the salary ranges in the job info section for this role.

All North America job posts will post for a minimum of 7 calendar days and up to 180 days or until candidate/s identified.

You have:

  • BS or MS degree in a relevant field (Electrical, Electronics, Optics, RF) or equivalent work experience.
  • Hands-on experience with Optical test and measurement instruments: OSA (optical spectrum analyzers), TLS (tunable laser sources), EDFAs, wavelength meters, power meters.
  • 3+ years experience in Functional Test SW development for photonic, optical, electronics and electrical components/modules. Python preferred.

It would be nice if you also had:

  • Hands-on experience with RF test and measurement instruments: Power Meters, Spectrum Analysers, Signal Generators, VNA.
  • Debug and failure root cause analysis skills. Data Analysis: measurement data review to extract parameters and performance metrics. 
  • Willingness to periodically travel (domestic and international, less than 15%). Understanding of Coherent optical transmission desirable.
  • Development of fully automated production-level test solutions for optical components, modules and assemblies used in high speed optical network equipment
  • Develop FT (Functional Test) SW to test functionality and quality of PIC (Photonic Integrated Circuit)
  • Monitor production data, diagnose process variations, troubleshoot test stations, perform GRR
  • Provide technical support to manufacturing partners. Assist with product failure analysis and troubleshooting
  • Review and contribute to technical documentation (schematics, test specifications, test set layout, product testability)
  • Support the adaptation of the test station from the R&D phase into high-volume manufacturing test platforms
  • Interface with product development teams (software, hardware, firmware, Optical) and worldwide EMS partners

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