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Manager Rf Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary We are seeking a Manager, RF Test Engineering & Engineering Labs to lead and scale our test engineering capabilities supporting advanced RF systems within the Signal Solutions line of ...

RF Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$128K - $177K/yr

About the Role Apex Space is seeking an RF Test Engineer to own system-level verification and performance testing of spacecraft communications hardware, with a primary focus on S-band TT&C and X-band ...

We are hiring an RF Test Engineer on behalf of our client who serves customers in Defense, Aerospace, SatCom and Commercial Markets. The RF Test Engineer should have the following experience:

RF Test Engineer

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

$105K - $135K/yr

RF Test Engineer Department: Avionics Employment Type: Full Time Location: Redondo Beach Compensation: $105,000 - $135,000 / year Description As an RF Test Engineer at Impulse Space, you will support ...

RF Test Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$65 - $95/hr

RF Test Engineer Position Description: Protingent Staffing has an exciting contract opportunity located in Redmond, WA. Job Responsibilities: * Perform calibration, characterization, and validation ...

As an RF Test Engineer at Impulse Space, you will support the development, integration, and testing of wireless spacecraft and ground communication systems. You will work closely with RF, embedded ...

RF Test Engineer Position Overview We are seeking a smart, hungry, and humble RF Test Engineer to support advanced RF and microwave device characterization. We're looking for someone who combines ...

Description As an RF Test Engineer at Impulse Space, you will support the development, integration, and testing of wireless spacecraft and ground communication systems. You will work closely with RF ...

We are looking to add an RF Test Engineer II to our team. If you enjoy working in a startup ... Excellent organizational and time management skills. PREFERRED EXPERIENCE * Space industry ...

We are looking to add an RF Test Engineer II to our team. If you enjoy working in a startup ... Excellent organizational and time management skills. PREFERRED EXPERIENCE * Space industry ...

We are looking to add an RF Test Engineer II to our team. If you enjoy working in a startup ... Excellent organizational and time management skills. PREFERRED EXPERIENCE * Space industry ...

RF Test Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$96.40K - $144.60K/yr

Interface with RF Systems, FPGA design engineers, and Software teams to define test requirements and provide feedback on design-for-test (DFT) features. * Documentation: Create detailed test plans ...

We conduct research and development, manage national laboratories, design and manufacture products ... The Test Engineer will work collaboratively with systems engineers, RF architects, and program ...

$120K - $160K/yr

The RF Test Engineer should have proven experience in developing innovative solutions that will be ... Develop and manage a dynamic database of categorized on-orbit assets to directly support mission ...

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Manager Rf Test Engineer information

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$44K

$126K

$206K

How much do manager rf test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for manager rf test engineer in the United States is $126,050.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,500.00 and $144,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Manager RF Test Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Manager RF Test Engineer, you need a solid background in RF engineering, signal analysis, and test methodologies, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering and relevant industry experience. Familiarity with RF test equipment (such as spectrum analyzers and network analyzers), test automation tools, and certification standards like ISO/IEC 17025 is crucial. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for managing teams and liaising with stakeholders. These skills and qualities are important for ensuring efficient testing processes, maintaining high product quality, and achieving project goals within technical and organizational requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by a Manager RF Test Engineer, and how can they be addressed?

A Manager RF Test Engineer often encounters challenges such as maintaining high testing accuracy under tight deadlines and managing the integration of new technologies into existing test processes. Effective communication with cross-functional teams, including design, manufacturing, and quality assurance, is essential to address issues quickly and keep projects on track. Additionally, staying updated on the latest RF testing standards and tools is key to ensuring both compliance and efficiency. Proactively fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the team helps in overcoming these challenges.

What does a Manager RF Test Engineer do?

A Manager RF Test Engineer oversees teams responsible for testing and validating radio frequency (RF) components and systems, ensuring they meet technical and regulatory standards. They develop test strategies, coordinate test plans, troubleshoot issues, and analyze test data to improve product performance. Additionally, they collaborate with design, manufacturing, and quality teams, while also managing project timelines, resources, and personnel. Their work is essential for ensuring RF products, such as wireless devices or communication systems, function reliably and efficiently.

What is the difference between Manager Rf Test Engineer vs Rf Test Engineer?

AspectManager Rf Test EngineerRf Test Engineer
ResponsibilitiesOversees testing teams, manages project timelines, and ensures quality standardsPerforms RF testing, analyzes results, and documents findings
Required SkillsTechnical expertise in RF testing, leadership, project managementStrong RF testing skills, troubleshooting, data analysis
CertificationsRF certifications, possibly PMP or management-related credentialsRF certifications, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentTeam management, coordination with multiple departmentsHands-on testing in labs or field environments

The main difference is that a Manager Rf Test Engineer focuses on leading testing teams and managing projects, while an Rf Test Engineer primarily conducts RF tests and analyzes data. The managerial role involves leadership and oversight, whereas the testing role emphasizes technical execution.

More about Manager Rf Test Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Manager Rf Test Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Manager Rf Test Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Rf Test Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Rf Test Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Manager Rf Test Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Manager Rf Test Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Manager Rf Test Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Manager Rf Test Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Manager Rf Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $126,050 per year, or $60.6 per hour.
RF Test Engineering Manager

RF Test Engineering Manager

Leonardo DRS

Frederick, MD

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Leonardo DRS rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

104th of 511 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job ID: 114387 

The Leonardo DRS Airborne and Intelligence Systems business is a global leader and strategic partner committed to delivering world-class, full life-cycle defense and intelligence products that protect the security of our nation and our allies.  From air combat training to state-of-the-art electronic warfare systems, our technology is deployed by virtually all U.S. military and government agencies around the world.

Job Summary

We are seeking a Manager, RF Test Engineering & Engineering Labs to lead and scale our test engineering capabilities supporting advanced RF systems within the Signal Solutions line of business. This role is responsible for defining and executing a modern, automated, and data-driven RF test strategy across development, integration, qualification, and production environments. 

The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in RF test methodologies, automated test systems (ATE), and system-level validation, combined with strong leadership and strategic vision. This leader will lead both test engineering and lab operations, driving improvements in RF performance validation, test efficiency, and cost optimization, while advancing capabilities through automation, AI/ML integration, and standardized test architectures. This leader will manage teams ranging from technicians to senior engineers and architects, delivering high-quality, scalable test solutions aligned with business and program objectives. 

This role will be instrumental in modernizing RF test across the organization, including automation, AI-enabled diagnostics, and standardized ATE architectures. 

Job Responsibilities
  • Lead the Test Engineering and Engineering Labs organization, including team development, hiring, performance management, and technical leadership  
  • Define and execute a comprehensive test strategy across development, integration & test (I&T), and production  
  • Architect and standardize Automated Test Equipment (ATE) and test frameworks across multiple programs and product lines  
  • Develop and deploy automated test solutions to validate key RF performance metrics (e.g., gain, noise figure, linearity/IP2/IP3, spurious, phase noise)  
  • Drive improvements in test efficiency, throughput, yield, and cycle time through automation and data-driven approaches  
  • Integrate AI/ML and advanced analytics into test workflows for predictive diagnostics and faster root cause analysis  
  • Partner with RF Design, Systems Engineering, Manufacturing, and Program Management to ensure strong Design-for-Testability (DFT) practices are implemented early in product development and strong correlation between simulation, lab validation, and production test  
  • Lead and support complex RF system debug across lab and production environments (hardware, firmware, and integration issues) 
  • Own engineering lab operations, including capacity planning, equipment lifecycle management, calibration strategy, and ESD/safety compliance 
  • Lead transition of test solutions from engineering to manufacturing, including readiness, documentation, training, and sustaining support  
  • Support proposals (RFP/RFQ/RFI) with test strategies, cost estimates, and execution plans  
  • Own test-related CAPEX planning and execution, ensuring alignment with long-term architecture and ROI objectives 
  • Job Responsibilities Part II 
  • Establish and track key metrics (e.g., yield, test time, MTTR, defect escape rate) to drive continuous improvement 
  • Develop and maintain a long-term RF test technology roadmap aligned with product complexity and business growth 
  • Drive development of scalable test data infrastructure and analytics to enable enterprise-wide visibility and insights 
  • Ensure lab and test environments meet quality, performance, and audit readiness standards 
  • Mentor engineers in test development, RF measurement techniques, automation, and data-driven engineering practices 
  • Foster a culture of technical rigor, accountability, and continuous improvement 
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related technical field (or equivalent experience) 
  • 10+ years of experience in RF test engineering, system validation, or ATE development 
  • 3+ years of experience in engineering leadership / people management 
  • Strong hands-on experience with RF test equipment (e.g., signal generators, spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, power meters, noise figure analyzers) 
  • Proven experience architecting and implementing automated RF test systems (ATE) 
  • Deep understanding of RF measurement techniques and performance metrics (gain, NF, IP3, harmonics, spurs, phase noise, etc.) 
  • Experience with system-level RF integration and troubleshooting 
  • Proficiency in Python or similar scripting languages for test automation 
  • Experience with LabVIEW or comparable test development environments 
  • Familiarity with test data management, databases (SQL), and analysis workflows 
  • Experience working in Linux and Windows environments 
  •  

Preferred Qualifications 

  • Experience with RF production test and manufacturing environments 
  • Background in high-frequency systems, SDRs, tuners, or communication systems 
  • Experience correlating RF simulation, lab measurements, and production test results 
  • Experience with AI/ML applied to RF test data or diagnostics (MLOps, predictive analytics, etc.) 
  • Familiarity with high-speed data acquisition and networked test systems (10GbE+) 
  • Lean Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or higher) 
  • Experience leading multi-site RF test standardization efforts  

Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS. We are proud to offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan. We champion wellness programs that focus on physical, emotional, and financial well-being. We develop our talent by offering programs and activities to support career-growth, professional development, and skill enhancement. And we understand there is more to life than work, and the importance of offering flexible work schedules with our 9/80 program, competitive vacation, health/emergency leave, paid parental leave, and community service hours. 
*Some employees are eligible for limited benefits only

Leonardo DRS, Inc. and its subsidiaries provide equal 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, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.#AIS


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