1

Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

The successful candidate will drive innovation in Size, Weight, Power, and Cost (SWaP-C ... Support certification readiness by ensuring RF-related design evidence, test coverage, and ...

The Test Engineer creates/implements test procedures, programs, fixtures - with a focus on cable ... drives issues to closure with design team * Ensures that test plans can be easily developed and ...

Automation Test Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$100K - $104K/yr

Opportunity for advancement Automation Test Engineer (Selenium + Java + GCP) Location: Phoenix, AZ ... Analyze defects, perform root cause analysis, and drive quality improvements. * Support continuous ...

RF Engineering Tech

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$26.68 - $40.14/hr

We're looking for people who think big, act fearlessly, and create an inclusive environment that drives positive impact to join our team. What you'll do We are looking for an RF Engineering Test Tech ...

Automation Test Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$100K - $104K/yr

Opportunity for advancement Automation Test Engineer (Selenium + Java + GCP) Location: Phoenix, AZ ... Analyze defects, perform root cause analysis, and drive quality improvements. * Support continuous ...

The RF Engineer III is a senior contributor who works highly independently and will use established ... Integrate, test, and validate RF/millimeterwave hardware for spaceflight applications, providing ...

Design, test, and integrate RF sensors and subsystems across frequencies from MHz through ... What We Offer Our values drive our actions, behaviors, and performance with a vision for a safer ...

Test and handle sensitive RF Hardware * Schematic capture and RF routing * Partner with ... Some front line leadership desirable What We Offer Our values drive our actions, behaviors, and ...

Test and handle sensitive RF Hardware * Schematic capture and RF routing * Partner with ... Some front line leadership desirable What We Offer Our values drive our actions, behaviors, and ...

The RF Engineer III is a senior contributor who works highly independently and will use established ... Integrate, test, and validate RF/millimeter-wave hardware for spaceflight applications, providing ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 11, 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?

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 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 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:
Infographic showing various Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,846 per year, or $56.2 per hour.

Systems Test Engineer, Early Career

Viasat, Inc.

Tempe, AZ

$96K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Viasat rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 97 rated telecommunications companies


Job description

About us

One team. Global challenges. Infinite opportunities. At Viasat, we’re on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate. We’re looking for people who think big, act fearlessly, and create an inclusive environment that drives positive impact to join our team.


What you'll do

In this role you will be able to use your engineering skills to support the next generation of advanced communications products and systems. You will be responsible for performing test engineering activities for RF/Microwave products and sub-assemblies developed for commercial, military and space markets. You will provide support in the Development of new Test Stations and participate in the Design Verification Testing of new products.

You will plan and execute test tasks that include interpreting test requirements, writing test plans, designing test hardware, designing test software and support characterization, testing and debugging devices for commercial, military, and space markets. Ideal candidates have a diverse engineering background or an interest in becoming diverse in software and hardware engineering.


The day-to-day
  • Work with designers to gather test requirements
  • Develop Test Plans
  • Develop Test Station Hardware
  • Select appropriate Test equipment
  • Develop test software
  • Build Test Stations
  • Test station calibration
  • Troubleshoot and problem-solving on Viasat hardware
  • Data Analysis of test results
  • Write Test and or Calibration procedures
  • Testing of custom RF hardware
  • Create HW and SW documentation

Additional Details

  • This position is site-based. Sitebased employees work 3+ days (60%+) per week from a Viasat office or work location within a standard fiveday work week. Relocation assistance is available pending eligibility.  

What you'll need
  • Education: Completion of Bachelor’s degree or higher in computer science, electrical engineering or a related field
  • Experience: This role is intended for someone with 0-3 years of full-time, relevant industry experience  
  • Citizenship: This position requires U.S. Citizenship
  • A good understanding of Electrical Circuit Designs and ability to read design documentation
  • Proficiency with programming in one or more programming languages such as Python, C#, Java, or C++ 
  • Communication skills
  • Up to 10% travel
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a United States Secret Clearance

What will help you on the job
  • Desire to work in an engineering environment
  • Good problem-solving skills, and tolerance for ambiguity
  • Working knowledge of object-oriented programming and software development best practices
  • Ability to work in teams or be self-directed

Salary range
$77,000.00 - $122,000.00 / annually.For specific work locations within San Jose, the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, the base pay range for this role is $96,000.00- $144,000.00/ annually
At Viasat, we consider many factors when it comes to compensation, including the scope of the position as well as your background and experience. Base pay may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Additional cash or stock incentives may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Learn more about Viasat's comprehensive benefit offerings that are focused on your holistic health and wellness at careers.viasat.com/LifeAtViasat/Benefits.
EEO Statement

Viasat is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, seeking to create a welcoming and diverse environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, genetics, age, or veteran status or any other applicable legally protected status or characteristic. If you would like to request an accommodation on the basis of disability for completing this on-line application, please click here.

Qualifications:
  • Education: Completion of Bachelor’s degree or higher in computer science, electrical engineering or a related field
  • Experience: This role is intended for someone with 0-3 years of full-time, relevant industry experience  
  • Citizenship: This position requires U.S. Citizenship
  • A good understanding of Electrical Circuit Designs and ability to read design documentation
  • Proficiency with programming in one or more programming languages such as Python, C#, Java, or C++ 
  • Communication skills
  • Up to 10% travel
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a United States Secret Clearance
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Viasat employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


ViaSat logo

About ViaSat

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Viasat, we're on a mission to deliver connections with the capacity to change the world. For more than 35 years, Viasat has helped shape how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the globe communicate.

Industry

Telecommunications

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Carlsbad, CA, US

Year founded

1986