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Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

mercury

RF Test Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

Perform root cause analysis on complex RF test failures and drive resolution with cross-functional ... Interface with design engineering, program management, and manufacturing as the RF test subject ...

Mercury Systems

RF Test Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

Perform root cause analysis on complex RF test failures and drive resolution with cross-functional ... Interface with design engineering, program management, and manufacturing as the RF test subject ...

Mercury Systems

RF Test Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

Perform root cause analysis on complex RF test failures and drive resolution with cross-functional ... Interface with design engineering, program management, and manufacturing as the RF test subject ...

Viasat, Inc.

Systems Test Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$149K - $224K/yr

... drives positive impact to join our team. What you'll do In this role you will be responsible for performing test engineering activities for RF/Microwave products and sub-assemblies developed for ...

Viasat, Inc.

Systems Test Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$117K - $176K/yr

... drives positive impact to join our team. What you'll do In this role you will be responsible for performing test engineering activities for RF/Microwave products and sub-assemblies developed for ...

Viasat, Inc.

Systems Test Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$176K - $264K/yr

... drives positive impact to join our team. What you'll do In this role you will be responsible for performing test engineering activities for RF/Microwave products and sub-assemblies developed for ...

Viasat, Inc.

Systems Test Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$176K - $264K/yr

... drives positive impact to join our team. What you'll do In this role you will be responsible for performing test engineering activities for RF/Microwave products and sub-assemblies developed for ...

Viasat, Inc.

Systems Test Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$176K - $264K/yr

... drives positive impact to join our team. What you'll do In this role you will be responsible for performing test engineering activities for RF/Microwave products and sub-assemblies developed for ...

Viasat, Inc.

Systems Test Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$117K - $176K/yr

... drives positive impact to join our team. What you'll do In this role you will be responsible for performing test engineering activities for RF/Microwave products and sub-assemblies developed for ...

Iridium Satellite LLC

Test Engineer III

Chandler, AZ · On-site

Previous experience working with RF systems and wireless communication technologies, including RF ... Strong desire to think creatively and drive innovative solutions to complex problems, continuously ...

Iridium Satellite, LLC

Test Engineer III

Chandler, AZ

Previous experience working with RF systems and wireless communication technologies, including RF ... Strong desire to think creatively and drive innovative solutions to complex problems, continuously ...

Iridium Satellite, LLC

Test Engineer III

Chandler, AZ

Previous experience working with RF systems and wireless communication technologies, including RF ... Strong desire to think creatively and drive innovative solutions to complex problems, continuously ...

Iridium Satellite, LLC

Test Engineer III

Chandler, AZ · On-site

Previous experience working with RF systems and wireless communication technologies, including RF ... Strong desire to think creatively and drive innovative solutions to complex problems, continuously ...

Viasat, Inc.

Test Engineer

Tempe, AZ

$123K - $185K/yr

... that drives positive impact to join our team. What you'll do We are thrilled to announce an ... Knowledge of environmental test as it pertains to RF and electronic products. * Ability to perform ...

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All JobsFreelance Rf Drive Test Engineer JobsFreelance Rf Drive Test Engineer Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

$36.7K

$116.8K

$181.7K

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

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance rf drive test engineer in Phoenix, AZ is $116,846.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,800.00 and $138,000.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Rf Drive Test Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ? The most popular types of Rf Drive Test Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ? For Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:
Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $116,846 per year, or $56.2 per hour.

RF Test Engineer

mercury

Phoenix, AZ

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

Mercury Systems is seeking the best and brightest talent to help us bring cutting-edge technology to mission-critical aerospace and defense applications, advancing innovation where it matters most.

Join our team as a Test Engineer III in our Integrated Processing Solutions business unit, where you'll serve as a technical test lead on a major program focused on sophisticated RF transmitter/receiver systems. This role centers on RF and antenna testing, environmental qualification, and test strategy development for mission-critical defense applications.

Job Responsibilities:
  • Lead Design Verification Test (DVT) strategy and execution for complex RF transmitter/receiver systems and subsystems
  • Design and develop specialized RF test fixtures, antenna test ranges, and test interface boards for RF subsystems
  • Perform comprehensive antenna testing including radiation patterns, gain measurements, VSWR, impedance matching, and far-field/near-field characterization
  • Conduct RF system performance testing including transmit power, receiver sensitivity, spurious emissions, harmonics, and intermodulation distortion
  • Develop and maintain sophisticated automated test scripts for RF instrument control, data acquisition, and automated reporting
  • Lead environmental and qualification testing per MIL-STD-810H (thermal, vibration, shock) and MIL-STD-461G (EMI/EMC) standards
  • Perform root cause analysis on complex RF test failures and drive resolution with cross-functional teams
  • Develop comprehensive test procedures and own formal test reports with full requirements traceability
  • Maintain test equipment calibration records and lead configuration management of test assets
  • Lead production test handoff activities including documentation, automation development, and knowledge transfer
  • Interface with design engineering, program management, and manufacturing as the RF test subject matter expert for the program
  • Support test planning, resource allocation, and schedule management activities
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field, or equivalent relevant experience
  • Typically requires a minimum of 4 years of related experience in electronics test engineering
  • Extensive hands-on experience testing RF systems, transmitters, receivers, or antenna systems
  • Strong programming experience in languages such as Python, .NET, or similar for test automation and data analysis
  • Advanced proficiency with RF test equipment: spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, signal generators, power meters, anechoic chambers, and antenna test ranges (including CATR)
  • Demonstrated experience with antenna testing and characterization techniques
  • Strong understanding of RF communication principles, modulation schemes, and link budgets
  • Experience with MIL-STD environmental and EMI/EMC testing standards (810H, 461G)
  • This position requires you to have or obtain a government security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens.
  • Travel approximately 10-15% to external test facilities
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Electrical Engineering
  • Experience with AI-assisted development tools (Claude Code, Cursor, GitHub Copilot, or similar) for test automation development
  • Experience with advanced antenna testing: phased arrays, AESA systems, and OTA methodologies
  • Experience with additional MIL-STD test standards (704, 1275, or similar)
  • Experience with RF test fixture design or PCB layout tools for RF applications
  • Familiarity with additional languages such as C/C++, MATLAB, LabVIEW, Rust, or SQL
  • Knowledge of antenna design principles and electromagnetic theory
  • Experience with requirements management tools (JAMA, DOORS)
  • Understanding of Design for Test (DFT) principles for RF systems
  • Previous experience in aerospace, defense, or ruggedized electronics industries
  • Existing Secret clearance or higher
  • Experience with OpenVPX/SOSA architecture, VITA standards (46.11, 48.2, 62, 65, 67.3), and RFSoC/FPGA-based RF systems
  • Experience with high-speed data interfaces including 100GigE, 40GigE, 10GigE, and fiber optic connections
Location:
  • This position is on-site at Mercury Systems, Phoenix, AR
  • Enjoy every other Friday off with our 9/80 work schedule!

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