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Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer Jobs in Upper Darby, PA

WiFi test engineer will provide troubleshooting support and optimization analysis. The individual ... the basic RF parameters and signal flows (frequency, power-level, modulation methods, channel ...

... Engineering, documents results, and improves existing test methods. *This position is unable to ... RF signal splitters, optical components) for deployment into the Comcast network. * Executes ...

Executes existing test plans. * Interfaces with Network Engineering to maintain the integrity of ... Radio Frequency (RF); Electric Circuits; Learning Quickly Base pay is one part of the Total Rewards ...

Test Engineer

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

What we need We are looking for a System Test Engineer to join the System Test organization. We are ... Employees must have a valid driver's license and the ability to drive and/or fly to client and ...

RF Design Engineer

Thorofare, NJ · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

You will work closely with electrical, mechanical, firmware, manufacturing, and test teams to ... At the forefront of innovation, we drive excellence across industries like retail, fashion ...

RF Design Engineer

Thorofare, NJ · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

We are looking for an RF Engineer who can design, simulate, and validate Sub-GHz and Wi-Fi/BLE ... You will work closely with electrical, mechanical, firmware, manufacturing, and test teams to ...

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Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer information

See Upper Darby, PA salary details

$35K

$111.3K

$173.1K

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

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance rf drive test engineer in Upper Darby, PA is $111,309.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,200.00 and $131,500.00 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 Upper Darby, PA are hiring for Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer jobs?

Cities near Upper Darby, PA with the most Freelance Rf Drive Test Engineer job openings:

Test Engineering Associate Manager - Antenna Ranges

Moorestown, NJ • On-site

Lockheed Martin Corporation
Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Lockheed Martin rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 398 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Standard Job Description
WHAT WE'RE DOING
At Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems, we're on a mission to drive innovation and uphold the highest standards of business ethics. We believe that by pushing the boundaries of visionary thinking, we can achieve exceptional results. As a Lockheed Martin employee, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while working in an environment that values integrity and excellence.
THE WORK
The Test Engineering Associate Manager leads a dedicated team comprised of a mix of Test Method Engineers, Engineers, and Subject Matter Experts focused on the design, verification, and qualification of phased array antennas and associated sub-systems. The role combines technical leadership with people-management duties, ensuring that near-field test facilities are operated, upgraded, and staffed to meet aggressive program schedules. The manager will also drive test-automation initiatives to develop and integrate technical insertions for manufactuting and provide accurate cost and staffing estimates for proposals.
Key Respobsibilities include:
  • Team Leadership & Development - Recruit, onboard, and mentor Test Method Engineers; conduct regular performance assessments, set development goals, and manage career progression.
  • Near-Field Test Facility Management - Oversee operation, calibration, and maintenance of near-field antenna test ranges (RF, anechoic, chamber-based); enforce safety and compliance controls.
  • Test Coordination & Staffing - Align test plans with program milestones; allocate engineering and technician resources, schedule test slots, and resolve staffing conflicts.
  • Capital Improvements - Identify, justify, and manage capital-expenditure projects for new test equipment, facility upgrades, and infrastructure enhancements; track budgets and ROI.
  • Test Automation & Technology Insertion - Lead adoption of automated test rigs, data-acquisition software, and emerging measurement technologies; integrate these solutions into existing test flows and documentation.
  • Proposal & Cost Estimating Support - Generate labor, material, and overhead estimates for test-related work scopes; produce staffing plans and technical insertions for customer proposals and internal bids.
  • Process Excellence - Apply Lean/Six-Sigma principles to improve test efficiency, data quality, and turnaround time; maintain consistent documentation standards.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration - Partner with program managers, systems engineers, and supply-chain teams to ensure test requirements are met and risks are mitigated.

WHO YOU ARE
You are a technical leader with deep expertise in RF and radar antenna test engineering and a proven ability to manage high-performing teams. You excel at combining hands-on facility management with strategic cost estimating and process improvement to drive operational excellence.
WHY JOIN US
In this role you will have the opportunity to lead a specialized engineering team and shape the future of RF test capabilities for some of the world's most advanced radar programs. You will drive technical innovation and facility upgrades that ensure the success of critical defense missions.
Our benefits are built to match the caliber of your work. Reliable, high performing, and mission ready. You'll enjoy world class resources, mentorship, continuous learning, competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and a supportive work life balance-all within a culture that values innovation, integrity, and collaboration.
Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, RF Engineering, Physics, or a closely related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in radar antenna or RF sub-system test engineering.
  • 3 + years of supervisory or people-management experience (directly overseeing engineers or technical staff).
  • Hands-on experience with near-field RF test methods, calibration processes, and associated measurement equipment.
  • Proven ability to develop cost estimates and staffing plans for test-related work scopes.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • This position requires a government security clearance, you must be a US Citizen for consideration.

Desired Skills
  • Master's degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
  • Experience implementing test-automation frameworks (e.g., Python-based test scripts, NI LabVIEW, custom PLC solutions, Matlab).
  • Experience with NSI2000 or FR959 Antenna Test Software.
  • Track record of managing capital-budget projects and delivering ROI-focused facility upgrades.
  • Familiarity with Lean, Six-Sigma, or other continuous-improvement methodologies applied to test operations.
  • Experience authoring technical insertions for proposals
  • Exposure to advanced radar system architectures (phased-array, electronically scanned arrays, etc.).
  • Demonstrated ability to work cross-functionally with program management, systems engineering, and supply chain teams.
  • Working knowledge of relevant industry standards (MIL-STD, IEEE, safety regulations for RF testing).

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $118000.00 - $219100.00
At Lockheed Martin, we know mission success starts with taking care of our people. Our Total Rewards program is designed to attract top talent, support your well-being, and help you grow-both professionally and personally.
The salary range for this position is as listed on the requisition. Please note that the salary information listed is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market(work location) and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Flexible work arrangements and schedules (e.g., 4x10), 401(k) match, Paid time off, Holidays, Parental Leave, EAP, Flexible Spending Accounts, Education Assistance, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability.
  • Annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs may be offered depending on the position. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and can vary from year to year and are tied to a range of performance metrics.
  • For (Washington state applicants only) Non-represented full-time employees: accrue at least 10 hours per month of Paid Time Off (PTO) to be used for incidental absences and other reasons; receive at least 90 hours for holidays. Represented full time employees accrue 6.67 hours of Vacation per month; accrue up to 52 hours of sick leave annually; receive at least 96 hours for holidays. PTO, Vacation, sick leave, and holiday hours are prorated based on start date during the calendar year.

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About Lockheed Martin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912