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Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer Jobs in Suffolk, VA

The Electrical Engineer conducts tests on live and lab equipment to support maintenance and design, provides recommendations on RF design and analysis, and brings engineering rigor to processes and ...

The Electrical Engineer conducts tests on live and lab equipment to support maintenance and design, provides recommendations on RF design and analysis, and brings engineering rigor to processes and ...

New

Drive DFM/DFA and process improvements to reduce errors, increase efficiency, and improve ... Support setup and troubleshooting of RF and optical test equipment for validation and production ...

Drive DFM/DFA and process improvements to reduce errors, increase efficiency, and improve ... Support setup and troubleshooting of RF and optical test equipment for validation and production ...

Drive DFM/DFA and process improvements to reduce errors, increase efficiency, and improve ... Support setup and troubleshooting of RF and optical test equipment for validation and production ...

Drive DFM/DFA and process improvements to reduce errors, increase efficiency, and improve ... Support setup and troubleshooting of RF and optical test equipment for validation and production ...

Mechanical Engineer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$95 - $130/hr

Drive DFM/DFA and process improvements to reduce errors, increase efficiency, and improve ... Support setup and troubleshooting of RF and optical test equipment for validation and production ...

New

Showing results 41-60

Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer information

See Suffolk, VA salary details

$35.2K

$112K

$174.1K

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

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance rf drive test engineer in Suffolk, VA is $111,950.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,800.00 and $132,200.00 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 cities near Suffolk, VA are hiring for Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer jobs?

Cities near Suffolk, VA with the most Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer job openings:

Electrical Engineer (202609)

PURVIS

Virginia Beach, VA

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

PURVIS Systems is a technology solutions partner that develops, implements and maintains mission-critical solutions for federal and local government agencies.

PURVIS is seeking an Electrical Engineer to support electrical engineering efforts for U.S. Navy submarine programs, working under the guidance of senior designers and engineers to review systems, documentation, and schematics for accuracy and completeness. The Electrical Engineer conducts tests on live and lab equipment to support maintenance and design, provides recommendations on RF design and analysis, and brings engineering rigor to processes and documentation including test plans, results, and analysis.

The day-to-day responsibilities of this role will include:
  • Reviewing systems to determine if tests, documentation, schematics, etc., make sense and provide recommendations.
  • Conduct tests on live and lab equipment to support maintenance and design.
  • Provide recommendations on RF design and analysis.
  • Bring engineering rigor to processes and documentation (test plans, results, analysis).
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in an engineering discipline
  • Six (6) years of full-time professional experience working as an Electrical/Electronic Engineer. 
  • Four (4) years in professional experience in each of the following skillsets/disciplines:
  • Performing systems engineering activities on Cryptologic Carry-On Equipment (COE) or Electronic Warfare (EW) Programs involving fully integrated tactical systems for military intelligence programs ashore and afloat.
  • Demonstrated engineering experience on U.S. Navy and warfare systems and their systems integration process as it relates to distribution systems impacts, mission, performance, and interoperability impacts.

Preferred Qualifications

Three (3) years of professional experience in each of the following skillsets/disciplines: 

  • COE/EW concepts and operations deployment
  • Radio Frequency (RF) design and analysis (e.g. propagation prediction measurement, receiver modeling, analysis, and design, detection and signal characterization processing, non-cooperative demodulation processing for signals of interest, and antenna array modeling)
  • Operating Systems experience in Windows and Linux
Required Skills & Competencies
  • Electrical systems knowledge - Understanding of shipboard electrical power and data network systems, including how distribution systems affect mission, performance, and interoperability.
  • Technical drawing interpretation - Ability to read, interpret, and update electrical/electronic schematics and technical drawings in support of Navy submarine documentation standards.
  • Circuit and systems analysis - Foundational understanding of electrical/electronic engineering principles, circuit design, and basic RF signal concepts as applied to warfare systems integration.
  • Test and evaluation support - Ability to conduct and support tests on live and lab equipment, and apply engineering rigor to test plans, results, and analysis.
  • Navy standards familiarity - Working knowledge of, or ability to quickly learn, Navy and company documentation standards, including ship checks and submarine electrical system requirements.
Candidate must have a government security clearance to the level of TOP SECRET. 

PURVIS has  been committed to sustainable growth since our inception in 1973, striving for continual improvement without ever losing sight of our core values: transparency, integrity, and teamwork. We provide the tools and path for each employee to be successful - and in return, ask you to play a pivotal role in helping your peers and clients be successful, providing top-notch teamwork and service. Peace of Mind at PURVIS means knowing your work provides immeasurable value to our team, our partners and our clients.
 
The PURVIS Team values the health and financial security of every employee. This is why we have chosen to offer all fulltime employees a comprehensive package of group benefit programs with enrollment options intended to offer flexibility - in both plan selection and level of coverage to maximize the value of your benefits as cost effective and affordable without compromising quality.
 
PURVIS values the diversity of our team. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. 
 
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