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Rf Test Characterization Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Advantest

RF Test Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

RF Measurements & Characterization * Perform RF and microwave measurements on devices, modules, and PCB assemblies up to 80 GHz. * Operate Vector Network Analyzers (VNAs) to measure: * S-parameters

Advantest

RF Test Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

RF Measurements & Characterization * Perform RF and microwave measurements on devices, modules, and PCB assemblies up to 80 GHz. * Operate Vector Network Analyzers (VNAs) to measure: * S-parameters

Apex

RF Test Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$128K - $177K/yr

... characterization, including loopback, end-to-end, and over-the-air test setups. * Lead RF ... Partner closely with RF design engineers, avionics teams, and systems engineers to debug anomalies ...

Impulse Space

RF Test Engineer

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

$105K - $135K/yr

RF Test Engineer Department: Assembly, Integration & Test Employment Type: Full Time Location ... Support testing and characterization of modulated RF waveforms and communication links * Work with ...

Impulse Space

RF Test Engineer

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

As an RF Test Engineer at Impulse Space, you will support the development, integration, and testing ... Support testing and characterization of modulated RF waveforms and communication links * Work with ...

Impulse Space

RF Test Engineer

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

$105K - $135K/yr

Description As an RF Test Engineer at Impulse Space, you will support the development, integration ... Support testing and characterization of modulated RF waveforms and communication links * Work with ...

Prattwhitney

Senior RF Design Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Work in a lab to accomplish component characterization, module verification, and integration * Test ... Experience in RF design and fabrication, RF test and troubleshooting, and RF simulation

MixMode

RF Test & Systems Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

The Role We are looking for an RF Test & Systems Engineer to own the testing, characterization, and system‑level validation of our mmWave beamforming chips and phased array platforms. This role ...

Qorvo, Inc.

Sr Characterization Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Overview As a Senior RF Test Development Engineer, you will own the design, implementation, and scaling of automated test Racks and Benches used for Characterization and Design Validation Testing ...

Impulse Space

Senior RF Test Engineer

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

$135K - $180K/yr

Senior RF Test Engineer Department: Assembly, Integration & Test Employment Type: Full Time ... characterization of wireless communication systems including GNSS receivers, radios, antennas, and ...

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Rf Test Characterization Engineer information

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$37K

$117.7K

$183K

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

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for rf test characterization engineer in the United States is $117,680.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,500.00 and $139,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an RF Test Characterization Engineer?

RF Test Characterization Engineers are professionals who specialize in evaluating and measuring the performance of radio frequency (RF) devices and systems. They design and conduct tests to analyze parameters such as signal strength, frequency response, and noise levels to ensure components meet industry and product specifications. These engineers work with specialized equipment in laboratory environments and often collaborate with design and manufacturing teams to troubleshoot issues and optimize device performance. Their role is critical in industries like telecommunications, aerospace, and consumer electronics where reliable RF performance is essential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an RF Test Characterization Engineer?

To thrive as an RF Test Characterization Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, RF circuit theory, and hands-on experience with RF measurement and characterization techniques. Familiarity with test equipment such as network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, and programming languages like Python or MATLAB, as well as relevant certifications (e.g., FCC, IEEE), is often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are essential for troubleshooting and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure accurate testing, reliable product performance, and efficient development cycles in RF and wireless technology environments.

What are some common challenges faced by RF Test Characterization Engineers during product development cycles?

RF Test Characterization Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing test variability due to environmental factors, ensuring measurement accuracy at high frequencies, and troubleshooting unexpected performance issues in prototype devices. Coordinating with design, validation, and manufacturing teams is crucial to quickly resolve test discrepancies and implement design improvements. Staying up to date with rapidly evolving test equipment and methodologies is also essential to maintain testing efficiency and reliability throughout the product lifecycle.

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

AspectRf Test Characterization EngineerRf Test Engineer
Primary FocusDeveloping and performing detailed RF component and device characterization to understand performance parametersTesting and validating RF systems and modules to ensure they meet specifications
Skills & CertificationsRF testing, measurement techniques, signal analysis, relevant certifications (e.g., RF certifications)RF testing, troubleshooting, system integration skills, certifications vary by employer
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D centers, focused on characterization and analysisProduction lines, testing labs, often involved in system-level testing

While both roles involve RF testing, the Rf Test Characterization Engineer specializes in detailed device and component analysis, whereas the Rf Test Engineer focuses on system-level testing and validation. The characterization engineer emphasizes understanding performance parameters, while the test engineer ensures overall system functionality and compliance.

What are popular job titles related to Rf Test Characterization Engineer jobs?

For Rf Test Characterization Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Rf Test Characterization Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,680 per year, or $56.6 per hour.

Test Characterization Engineer Intern

Richardson, TX • On-site

Qorvo, Inc.
Manufacturing • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about Qorvo, Inc.external

$31 - $42/hr

Full-time, Internship

Posted 10 days ago

Qorvo rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Qorvo (Nasdaq: QRVO) supplies innovative semiconductor solutions that make a better world possible. We combine product and technology leadership, systems-level expertise and global manufacturing scale to quickly solve our customers' most complex technical challenges. Qorvo serves multiple high-growth segments of large global markets, including consumer electronics, smart home/IoT, automotive, EVs, battery-powered appliances, network infrastructure, healthcare and aerospace/defense. Visit www.qorvo.com to learn how our innovative team is helping connect, protect and power our planet.
Qorvo's Internship Program is designed for college students currently enrolled in an accredited Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD program. Qorvo offers real work experience, exposure to upper management, and the opportunity to pursue full-time opportunities, as available.
Qorvo's Internship Program offers:
  • Challenging, skill-building assignments
  • Mentoring and coaching from industry experts
  • Launch & Learns and other learning opportunities
  • Collaborative team-based work environment
  • Networking and social events
  • Final presentation to business leaders

Qorvo's RF Characterization Engineering Internship provides hands-on experience supporting the operation, troubleshooting, and improvement of RF measurement systems. The intern will work alongside experienced engineers to execute characterization testing, investigate hardware and software issues, and help maintain reliable, repeatable laboratory test setups. Specific projects and responsibilities will be determined based on business needs at the time of the internship assignment.
Responsibilities may include:
  • Set up, operate, and monitor RF characterization systems under the guidance of experienced engineers
  • Execute defined RF test procedures and collect measurement data using equipment such as vector network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, power meters, and DC source/measure units
  • Troubleshoot RF test setup issues, including cables, connectors, fixtures, probes, bias networks, instrumentation, and equipment communication
  • Assist with debugging test hardware and software by isolating faults, reproducing failures, and documenting observations
  • Support calibration, system verification, equipment readiness, and repeatability checks for bench and automated RF test setups
  • Make supervised updates to test scripts and utilities using Python, C#, LabVIEW, or similar tools
  • Process, review, and summarize measurement data to identify anomalies, setup-related errors, and opportunities for improvement
  • Create and maintain clear documentation for test procedures, setup configurations, troubleshooting steps, and results
  • Follow laboratory safety, electrostatic discharge (ESD), and equipment-handling practices while maintaining an organized work area
  • Communicate findings and project progress through concise reports and a final presentation to technical and business leaders

Qualifications:
  • Currently pursuing a BS or MS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0
  • Coursework or laboratory experience in circuits, electronics, communications, or RF/microwave engineering
  • Basic understanding of electronic measurements and willingness to learn RF test methods and instrumentation
  • Exposure to a programming or automation language such as Python, C#, C/C++, MATLAB, or LabVIEW
  • Strong hands-on troubleshooting, problem-solving, and attention-to-detail skills
  • Ability to follow technical procedures, maintain accurate records, and communicate findings clearly
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and PowerPoint
  • Self-starter who works effectively both independently and within a collaborative engineering team

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship by the Company.
Competitive hourly pay commensurate with experience: $31/hr - $42/hr (subject to change dependent on physical location)
Posted salary ranges are made in good faith. Qorvo reserves the right to adjust ranges depending on the experience/qualification of the selected candidate as well as external competitiveness and internal comparability.
Base compensation is one element of Total Rewards offered at Qorvo. More information on the Total Rewards package can be shared upon request.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE AT QORVO
We are Qorvo. We do more than create innovative RF and Power solutions for the mobile, defense and infrastructure markets - we are a place to innovate and shape the future of wireless communications. It starts with our employees. As a unified global team, we bring a commitment to excellence, growth and a passion for creating what's next. Explore the possibilities with us.
We are an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcome all qualified applicants. Applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable law, including race, color, religion, sex (as defined by law), national origin, age, military or veteran status, genetic information, or disability.
Qorvo is an E-Verify Employer. For more information, please see the Right to Work and E-Verify Participation posters.

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