Radio Frequency Rf Engineer Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Are you inspired by the idea of supporting our nation’s critical infrastructure and securing communications for first responders, utilities, and transportation?

Does the prospect of joining a growing, nationally established, multi-location business and installing, configuring, and troubleshooting a variety of specialized police, fire, or utility equipment appeal to you?

Are you an independent, self-motivated individual contributor also capable of rolling up your sleeves and supporting your teammates when unexpected challenges arise?

RACOM was established in 1972 and designs, sells, installs, and maintains all of the technologies used in the "second half of the 911 response equation" - from the time an emergency dispatcher answers a 911 call to the time police, fire and ambulances arrive on scene, supporting specialized phone systems, pagers, radios, and voice recorders to warning lights and sirens.

RACOM has earned its exceptional reputation for delivering the highest quality products and services over its 40+ year history. In February 2023, Eastern Communications acquired RACOM corporation, and now comprises 250 employees across 17 locations nationwide.

The Radio Frequency (RF) Technician is responsible for installing, configuring, maintaining, and troubleshooting RF communication and supporting systems that support mission-critical operations for public safety, utilities, and transportation. This role ensures optimal system performance, regulatory compliance, and reliable communication infrastructure.

The ideal candidate will have expertise in technology or electronics with the ability to learn RF systems and the ability to diagnose, resolve, and effectively communicate complex issues to both technical and non-technical audiences. This position directly contributes to the functionality, efficiency, and safety of specialized communication equipment used to serve and protect communities.

Based at a local service center, the RF Technician will primarily support nearby service centers, with occasional travel required for operations, installations, and training across different regions.

• Install, configure, and repair Radio Frequency equipment and systems
• Diagnose signal, interference, and hardware issues
• Perform testing, firmware updates, and system calibration
• Support emergency vehicle upfits and 12VDC installs
• Maintain documentation and service records
• Participate in on-call rotation after training
• Conduct site surveys and RF coverage tests
• Ensure FCC and safety compliance
• Assist with system upgrades and new deployments
• Travel as needed for field work and training
• Provide prompt, professional customer support
• Collaborate with team members and project staff

• Relevant hands-on technical experience or associate's degree in Electronics, Telecommunications, or a related field.
• Troubleshooting and diagnostic skills for systems.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for operations and training.
• Mechanical aptitude for working with tools, mounting hardware, and installations.
• Attention to detail in system configurations, testing, and documentation.
• Competence in reading technical schematics, wiring diagrams, and system

• Experience working with federal agencies or public safety organizations (e.g., police, fire, EMS, emergency management).
• Industry certifications - Such as ETA, FCC GROL, or other RF-related credentials.
• Advanced networking knowledge - Including VoIP, radio-over-IP systems, network integration and IP camera systems.
• Experience with field service software and reporting tools.
• Safety certifications or formal safety training.

• Health, dental and vision insurance
• 401k and company match
• Annual performance review and associated bonus
• Paid holidays, vacation and sick days, and parental leave
• Ongoing technical training
• Advancement opportunities
• Company-provided uniforms and safety equipment

$24 - $29 an hour

Radio Frequency Technician expected salary range does not include semi-annual bonus or other company benefits