ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer Jobs in Detroit, MI

May Mobility

Senior Integration Test Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$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 ...

Ford Motor Company

Software Test Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site +1

$102K - $204K/yr

At Ford Motor Company, we believe freedom of movement drives human progress. We also believe in ... Software Test Engineer - positions offered by Ford Motor Company (Dearborn, Michigan). Note, this ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsRf Drive Test Engineer 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 Sep 6, 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 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.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,499 per year, or $56 per hour.

HiL Test Engineer - Automotive

ALTEN Technology USA

Dearborn, MI

$65 - $70K/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

As a HiL Test Engineer you will be responsible for;

  • Execute HiL test cases against feature and system requirements, and analyze the results
  • Write and maintain automated test sequences and scripts using Python, CAPL, or dSPACE AutomationDesk
  • Bring ECUs up on the bench: flashing software, verifying communication, configuring restbus simulation
  • Analyze CAN, LIN, and Ethernet traces to determine whether a failure sits in the device under test, the bench, or the test script itself
  • Build and modify breakout boxes, load boxes, and test harnesses; instrument simulated sensors and actuators
  • Run bench health checks and intake tests before a campaign starts, so campaign results can be trusted
  • Write clear defect reports with reproduction steps and supporting evidence, and drive them to closure
  • Maintain traceability from requirement to test case to result
  • Support senior engineers during new bench builds, wiring, and commissioning

Qualifications;

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Computer, Mechatronics, or Mechanical Engineering, or Computer Science
  • 0-3 years of professional experience; relevant internships or co-ops count
  • Hands-on exposure to at least one real-time or HiL platform - dSPACE, NI VeriStand, ETAS, Vector, Speedgoat, or equivalent academic lab work
  • Working knowledge of CAN and automotive network fundamentals
  • Scripting ability in Python or MATLAB
  • Comfort with lab hardware: multimeters, oscilloscopes, bench power supplies, and reading wiring diagrams and schematics
  • Clear written documentation habits - test evidence is only useful if someone else can follow it
  • Authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship, [now or in the future]
  • Ability to work onsite in Dearborn, MI

Salary Range: $65-$70k 

The actual salary offered is dependent on various factors including, but not limited to, location, the candidate's combination of job-related knowledge, qualifications, skills, education, training, and experience 

MANDATORY FOR ALL REMOTE/HYBRID AND/OR CALIFORNIA, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, HAWAII, COLORADO, MARYLAND, CONNECTICUT, ILLINOIS, MINNESOTA, VERMONT, MASSACHUSETTS, NEVADA, NEW YORK, RHODE ISLAND, WASHINGTON STATE & CINCINNATI, OHIO, JERSEY CITY, NEW JERSEY, TOLEDO, OHIO BASED ROLES. 

Note: Due to the nature of the work, only US Persons (citizens or permanent residents) need apply for this position. - OPTIONAL 

Apply