ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer Jobs in Detroit, MI

General Motors

Senior Wireless Test Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

The Role The Senior Wireless Test Engineer - Cellular Systems will lead lab and field validation of ... Analyze RF measurements, correlate with requirements and KPIs, and drive corrective actions with ...

General Motors

Senior Wireless Test Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

The Role The Senior Wireless Test Engineer - Cellular Systems will lead lab and field validation of ... Analyze RF measurements, correlate with requirements and KPIs, and drive corrective actions with ...

Kratos Defense

Test Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

Drive improvements in test efficiency, data quality, and execution discipline * Ensure technician ... Advanced engineering degree * Experience with LabVIEW, MATLAB, Python, or similar tools

Marelli Holdings

Test Engineer

Southfield, MI

Every day, we drive change and co-create what comes next. Our purpose is simple yet ambitious: "Let ... Innovative Test Methodology Design: Engineer advanced, cost-effective testing methods and ...

Marelli Holdings

Test Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

Every day, we drive change and co-create what comes next. Our purpose is simple yet ambitious: "Let ... Innovative Test Methodology Design: Engineer advanced, cost-effective testing methods and ...

UTAC

Test Engineer

Northville, MI

... our industrial drive systems * Calibrating testing equipment such as torque meters, pressure ... Test engineers will not be responsible for any opinions or interpretations of our customer ...

UTAC

Test Engineer

Northville, MI · On-site

... drive systems * Calibrating testing equipment such as torque meters, pressure sensors, and flow ... Test engineers will not be responsible for any opinions or interpretations of our customer data ...

UTAC

Test Engineer

Northville, MI

... drive systems * Calibratingtesting equipment such as torque meters, pressure sensors, andflow ... Test engineers will not be responsible for any opinions or interpretations ofourcustomer data ...

Brightwing

Test Engineer (1439421)

Auburn Hills, MI

$42 - $48/hr

Sound judgment, excellent communication skills and the ability to drive decisions through consensus and influence change are a must. The Emissions Certification Test Engineer is responsible for the ...

Amentum

Breadboard Test Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

We are hiring a Breadboard Test Engineer to work in Dearborn, MI. Complete physical validation of ... Drive pre-test readiness, troubleshoot Design Verification (DV) issues, and provide requirement ...

Pae

Breadboard Test Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

Drive pre-test readiness, troubleshoot Design Verification (DV) issues, and provide requirement ... Work with Core Engineering and Test Operations to correlate requirements to customer needs, improve ...

Expleo

ADAS System Test Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

EXPLEO USA is looking for an ADAS System Test Engineer to join a dynamic and expanding team in Troy ... You will drive vehicle-level system testing and ensure full verification and validation of ADAS ...

General Motors

RF Antenna Engineer

Warren, MI · Hybrid

Analyze test data, identify root causes of performance issues, and propose corrective actions ... drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every ...

General Motors

RF Antenna Engineer

Warren, MI · Hybrid

Analyze test data, identify root causes of performance issues, and propose corrective actions ... drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every ...

General Motors

RF Antenna Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

Analyze test data, identify root causes of performance issues, and propose corrective actions ... drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every ...

May Mobility

Senior Integration Test Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI

$108K - $140K/yr

Senior Integration Test Engineers will focus on both static vehicle-level and HIL testing, replaying real-world drive logs, and documenting system responses. This role is unique in which you will ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFreelance Rf Drive Test Engineer JobsFreelance Rf Drive Test Engineer Jobs in Detroit, MI

Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$36.6K

$116.5K

$181.2K

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

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance rf drive test engineer in Detroit, MI is $116,499.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,500.00 and $137,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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 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.

What are Freelance RF Drive Test Engineers?

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 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 are popular job titles related to Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI? For Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI are:
Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer job openings in Detroit, MI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $116,499 per year, or $56 per hour.
Senior Wireless Test Engineer

Senior Wireless Test Engineer

General Motors

Warren, MI • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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

General Motors rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 305 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 44 rated automakers

Job description

Job Description
This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the successful candidate is expected to report to the GM Global Technical Center in Warren, MI three times per week, at minimum [or other frequency dictated by the business if more than 3 days].
The Role
The Senior Wireless Test Engineer - Cellular Systems will lead lab and field validation of GM's 4G and 5G cellular connectivity, ensuring robust voice, data, and safety-critical services for connected vehicles. This role is responsible for translating detailed technical and regulatory requirements into comprehensive test strategies, test cases, and automated test scripts that validate end-to-end system performance across multiple networks, operators, and markets.
You will be a hands-on technical leader, defining test methodologies, selecting tools and equipment, executing complex test campaigns, and driving issue resolution with internal teams and external partners.
What You'll Do
Test Strategy, Planning, and Design
  • Translate system, feature, and regulatory requirements into structured test plans, test cases, and scripts covering lab and field validation for cellular connectivity.
  • Define test coverage strategy for:
  • RF performance and parametric tests
  • Protocol stack behavior for 4G LTE and 5G NR
  • Mobility, roaming, and handover scenarios
  • Application-level voice, data, SMS, emergency calls, and special features.
  • Identify tools, test equipment, fixtures, and environments required to fully validate requirements (e.g., RF chambers, call boxes, loggers, automation frameworks, simulators, load generators).

RF Performance and Parametric Validation
  • Develop and execute RF performance and parametric test cases (e.g., output power, sensitivity, ACLR, EVM, throughput vs. RSRP/RSRQ/SINR, spectrum mask).
  • Specify and use RF test equipment such as signal generators, spectrum/network analyzers, OTA chambers, and channel emulators.
  • Analyze RF measurements, correlate with requirements and KPIs, and drive corrective actions with hardware and modem engineering teams.

Cellular Protocol and Mobility Testing (4G/5G)
  • Develop detailed test cases and scripts to validate 4G/5G protocol stack behavior, including:
  • Attach/registration, bearer/session setup, authentication, and security procedures
  • Mobility management, idle/connected mode behaviors, DRX, power-saving features.
  • Design and execute mobility and roaming scenarios, including:
  • Intra- and inter-frequency handovers
  • Inter-RAT mobility (e.g., LTE-NR, LTE-3G/2G where applicable)
  • Domestic and international roaming, PLMN selection, and operator-specific features.
  • Validate throughput and latency across multiple radio conditions, bands, and network configurations; create performance benchmarks and regression baselines.

Service and Feature Validation (Voice, Data, SMS, Emergency, Special Features)
  • Develop and maintain test suites for:
  • Voice services: CS voice (where relevant), VoLTE/VoNR, supplementary services, audio quality KPIs.
  • Packet data: IP connectivity, QoS, APN configurations, VPN and secure tunnel behavior.
  • Messaging: MO/MT SMS, concatenated messages, delivery reports, failure handling.
  • Emergency services: eCall/NG-eCall or regional equivalents, emergency call routing, fallback behaviors, and priority handling.
  • Special features: operator- or GM-specific services (e.g., data-only modes, tethering, OTA updates, remote commands, telematics features).
  • Validate end-to-end system behavior including in-vehicle integration, back-end/cloud interfaces, and mobile network interactions.

Automation, Tooling, and Infrastructure
  • Develop automated test scripts and parsers for cellular and RF test execution, log collection, and results processing.
  • Define and maintain test benches, automation frameworks, and CI/regression test suites for cellular validation.
  • Specify and integrate test tools such as:
  • Cellular network simulators / call boxes
  • RF channel emulators and OTA chambers
  • Packet sniffers, protocol analyzers, and logging tools
  • Traffic generators for voice/data/SMS and application load.
  • Drive test data management: logging, parsing, metrics dashboards, and traceability between requirements, test cases, and results.

Debug, Analysis, and Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Perform deep-dive analysis of field and lab issues involving RF, protocol, and service-level failures; reproduce and triage with modem suppliers, network operators, and internal teams.
  • Collaborate closely with hardware design, modem/software, systems engineering, regulatory, and back-end/cloud teams to:
  • Clarify requirements and KPIs
  • Prioritize defects and drive design or software changes
  • Improve test coverage and methodologies over time.
  • Provide clear, concise test reports and technical summaries for leadership, program teams, and external stakeholders.

Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications)
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Telecommunications, or related field.
  • 5+ years of hands-on experience in cellular wireless testing or validation (4G LTE and/or 5G NR) in automotive, telecom, handset, or modem domains.
  • Strong understanding of:
  • Cellular RF fundamentals (power, sensitivity, link budget, interference, fading)
  • 4G/5G protocol stack (RRC, PDCP, RLC, MAC, PHY; NAS and core network interactions)
  • Mobility and roaming concepts, including handovers, reselection, and tracking areas.
  • Demonstrated experience developing test plans, test cases, and test scripts for:
  • RF performance and parametric checks
  • Cellular protocol procedures (attach, bearer setup, registration, security)
  • Mobility/roaming, throughput, and latency characterization
  • Voice, data, SMS, and emergency call scenarios.
  • Hands-on experience with cellular test equipment and tools, such as:
  • Call boxes / network simulators (e.g., Keysight, R&S, Anritsu, Spirent, etc.)
  • Spectrum/network analyzers, signal generators, channel emulators
  • Protocol analyzers and log tools (e.g., QXDM, QCAT, modem logs, Wireshark).
  • Strong data analysis and debugging skills, with the ability to interpret complex RF and protocol logs and narrow down root causes.
  • Proven ability to translate requirements into testable criteria and define the tools, instrumentation, and configurations needed for full coverage.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to document test methods, results, and recommendations clearly.

What Can Give You a Competitive Advantage (Preferred Qualifications)
  • Master's degree in a related engineering field.
  • Experience with automotive connectivity or telematics control units (TCUs), including in-vehicle integration and back-end/cloud connectivity.
  • Knowledge of Hardware design, PCB, and traces.
  • Familiarity with emergency call regulations, public safety requirements, and regional differences in emergency services.
  • Experience with test automation frameworks (Python or similar) for cellular/RF testing, including scripting for call box control and log parsing.
  • Knowledge of operator certification, conformance, and regulatory test processes (e.g., PTCRB, GCF, carrier-specific programs).
  • Experience with multi-RAT and multi-SIM devices, as well as coexistence with other radios (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GNSS).
  • Background in requirements management and traceability tools, and in building coverage metrics for large test suites.

This job is not eligible for relocation benefits. Any relocation costs would be the responsibility of the selected candidate.
Compensation:
  • The expected base compensation for this role is: $106,600 - $165,700. Actual base compensation within the identified range will vary based on factors relevant to the position.
  • Bonus Potential: An incentive pay program offers payouts based on company performance, job level, and individual performance.
  • Benefits: GM offers a variety of health and wellbeing benefit programs. Benefit options include medical, dental, vision, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Accounts, retirement savings plan, sickness and accident benefits, life insurance, paid vacation & holidays, tuition assistance programs, employee assistance program, GM vehicle discounts and more.

GM DOES NOT PROVIDE IMMIGRATION-RELATED SPONSORSHIP FOR THIS ROLE. DO NOT APPLY FOR THIS ROLE IF YOU WILL NEED GM IMMIGRATION SPONSORSHIP NOW OR IN THE FUTURE. THIS INCLUDES DIRECT COMPANY SPONSORSHIP, ENTRY OF GM AS THE IMMIGRATION EMPLOYER OF RECORD ON A GOVERNMENT FORM, AND ANY WORK AUTHORIZATION REQUIRING A WRITTEN SUBMISSION OR OTHER IMMIGRATION SUPPORT FROM THE COMPANY (e.g., H-1B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc.)
#LI-CC1
About GM
Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.
Why Join Us
We believe we all must make a choice every day - individually and collectively - to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.
Benefits Overview
From day one, we're looking out for your well-being-at work and at home-so you can focus on realizing your ambitions. Learn how GM supports a rewarding career that rewards you personally by visiting Total Rewards resources.
Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)
General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.
All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, disability, pregnancy or maternity status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran or protected veteran, or any other similarly protected status in accordance with federal, state and local laws.
We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.
Accommodations
General Motors offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, emailus or call us at 1-. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.

What General Motors employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

General Motors logo

About General Motors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Motors is a company with global scale and capabilities, headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, with employees around the world. The company employs over 165,000 people, serves six continents, operates across 22 time zones, and has a diverse workforce speaking 75 languages1. GM’s vision is to drive the world forward by pioneering innovations that move and connect people to what matters. The company is working towards an all-electric future with its new Ultium Platform and is pushing transportation options beyond our wildest imaginations with autonomous vehicles. GM is also committed to becoming the most inclusive company in the world.

Industry

Transportation equipment manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Detroit, MI, US

Year founded

1908

View All General Motors Jobs

Apply