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Microwave Test Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RF and microwave engineers use X-MWblock ® modular building blocks to rapidly evaluate, prototype, and produce high-end RF and microwave systems faster, easier, and at lower cost. Applications ...

RF and microwave engineers use X-MWblock ® modular building blocks to rapidly evaluate, prototype ... Position Overview The Senior RF / Microwave Test Technician is responsible for testing ...

RF Test Technician

Torrance, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

RF Test Technician Job Location: Torrance, CA Salary: $30.00-$35.00/hr DOE We currently have an ... Experience with vacuum electronic devices (such as traveling wave tubes) or other microwave devices ...

Tune and Test Technician III

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

We are seeking an experienced Tune and Test Technician with an understanding of microwave test techniques and equipment, with a broad understanding of modules such as amplifiers, filters ...

... design engineers as well as technicians and manufacturing support personnel. Required ... Knowledge of RF/ microwave test equipment is required, including network analyzers, spectrum ...

RF Test Technician Job Location: Torrance, CA Salary: $30.00-$35.00/hr DOE We currently have an ... Experience with vacuum electronic devices (such as traveling wave tubes) or other microwave devices ...

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Microwave Test Technician information

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$13

$25

$39

How much do microwave test technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for microwave test technician in the United States is $25.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Microwave Test Technician vs RF Test Technician?

AspectMicrowave Test TechnicianRF Test Technician
CertificationsOften requires FCC certifications, RF certifications, or related technical credentialsSimilar certifications, including FCC and RF-specific credentials
Work EnvironmentWorks in labs, manufacturing facilities, or field testing with microwave and high-frequency equipmentWorks in labs or production settings testing radio frequency devices and systems
Industry UsageCommon in telecommunications, aerospace, defense, and electronics manufacturingUsed in telecommunications, wireless device manufacturing, and electronics industries

Both roles involve testing high-frequency electronic equipment, often requiring similar certifications and working environments. The main difference lies in the frequency range: Microwave Test Technicians focus on microwave frequencies (above 1 GHz), while RF Test Technicians work with radio frequencies (below 1 GHz). Both positions are essential in industries like telecommunications and aerospace, with overlapping skills and responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by Microwave Test Technicians, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Microwave Test Technicians often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting signal inconsistencies, handling sensitive equipment, and interpreting complex test data. Staying organized and following strict calibration and safety protocols are essential for accurate results. Collaborating closely with engineers and production teams can help quickly resolve issues and ensure effective communication when specifications need clarification. Continuous learning and adapting to new testing technologies also help technicians stay effective in this evolving field.

How much do microscope technicians make?

Microscope technicians typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. The role often requires attention to detail and familiarity with optical equipment and laboratory environments.

How to become a microwave technician?

To become a microwave test technician, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or an associate degree in electronics or a related field. Gaining hands-on experience through apprenticeships or on-the-job training is common, and obtaining certifications such as FCC or industry-specific credentials can enhance job prospects. Strong technical skills, knowledge of microwave systems, and safety awareness are essential for success in this role.

What are Microwave Test Technicians?

Microwave Test Technicians are professionals who set up, operate, and troubleshoot equipment used to test microwave devices and systems. They work with components such as amplifiers, oscillators, antennas, and circuits to ensure they meet performance standards. Their responsibilities include running tests, analyzing data, calibrating instruments, and documenting results. These technicians often work in industries like telecommunications, defense, or electronics manufacturing where precise microwave technology is essential.

What is the highest paid technician?

Among technicians, specialized roles such as aerospace, nuclear, or industrial equipment technicians tend to have the highest salaries. For example, nuclear technicians often earn higher wages due to the technical complexity and safety requirements of their work. Microwave test technicians typically earn competitive wages but are generally not among the highest-paid technician roles.

Is being a test technician hard?

Being a microwave test technician can be challenging as it requires technical knowledge of microwave systems, attention to detail, and the ability to troubleshoot complex electronic equipment. The job often involves working with specialized tools and following safety protocols, but with proper training and experience, it becomes manageable. The difficulty level varies based on individual skills and the complexity of the tests performed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Microwave Test Technician, and why are they important?

To excel as a Microwave Test Technician, you need a solid background in electronics, RF theory, and troubleshooting, often supported by an associate degree or technical certification in electronics or a related field. Familiarity with test equipment such as spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, signal generators, and oscilloscopes is essential, along with experience interpreting technical schematics and using diagnostic software. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are key soft skills that set top performers apart. These competencies ensure accurate testing, efficient problem resolution, and reliable performance in high-frequency electronic systems.
More about Microwave Test Technician jobs
What cities are hiring for Microwave Test Technician jobs? Cities with the most Microwave Test Technician job openings:
What job categories do people searching Microwave Test Technician jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Microwave Test Technician jobs are:
Infographic showing various Microwave Test Technician job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 34% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,688 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

$95K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

At the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country's space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration. With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions. Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD!

Are you passionate about understanding not just the how RF and microwave test equipment works but also the why? Do you want to grow as an engineer with opportunities to participate in microwave analysis, modeling, and design activities? The Communications Electronics Department (CED) is seeking a Microwave Test Engineer who thrives on curiosity, goes beyond following procedures, asks questions, and seeks root causes. In this role, you'll design and implement innovative and unique RF/microwave test benches using state-of-the-art modeling, prototyping, and measurement capabilities, while at the same time collaborating with microwave and millimeter-wave subject matter experts. You'll work in a dynamic and challenging academic-like environment that values intellectual curiosity, a growth mindset, and practical impact, a place where you can make a tangible difference in the development and operation of our nation's most critical space systems.

The selected candidate will be required to work full time on-site at our facility at El Segundo, CA.

What You'll Be Doing

  • Develop test benches with microwave instrumentation such as network analyzers and/or high-speed oscilloscopes

  • Independently analyze test data

  • Perform engineering design, analysis, and modeling

  • Collaborate onsite with fellow engineers and technicians

  • Mentor technical and technician staff.

What You Need to be Successful - Member of the Technical Staff

Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor's of Science degree in Electrical Engineering or other related discipline

  • Minimum of 1-year of hands-on experience testing microwave instrumentation such as network and spectrum analyzers, high-speed oscilloscopes, and signal sources

  • Demonstrated proficiency in instrument automation using PYTHON, MATLAB, LabVIEW or similar languages

  • Demonstrated creativity in problem-solving, handling ambiguity and imperfectly defined problems, an ability to rapidly grasp new concepts, and excellent written/verbal communication skills

  • Willing to travel domestically approximately 10%

  • For this specific position and the U.S. Government program we support, the chosen candidate will need to be of U.S. Citizenship as they will need to have the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance at a Top-Secret/SSBI Level.

In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for Senior Member of the Technical Staff:

  • Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering or other related discipline with 3 years of experience or Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering or other related discipline with 5 years of experience with microwave testing AND all of the above related requirements.

  • Track record writing test procedures

  • Experience generating test reports

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

  • Experience with high-power microwave amplifiers or systems

  • Ability to perform microwave circuit simulations using ADS or AWR Microwave Office

  • Capability to perform EM simulations using Sonnet, AXIEM, or HFSS

  • Technical Team Leadership

  • Currently hold an active DOD - Top Secret Security Clearance with SCI access.

We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.

(Min - Max)

$95,200.00 - $165,500.00Pay Basis: Annual

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

  • Operate Strategically
  • Lead Change
  • Engage with Impact
  • Foster Innovation
  • Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:

  • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

  • Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

  • Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

  • 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

  • Flexible spending accounts

  • Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

  • Relocation assistance

  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

  • Education assistance programs

  • An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an equalopportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color,religion,geneticinformation, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by emailatpeoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org .You can also reviewKnow Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.