RF Test Engineer

Posted 17 days ago

advantestSan Jose (CA)

Electronics Engineers, Except Computer Radio and Television Broadcasting and Wireless Communications Equipment Manufacturing

SENIORITY

Mid

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About the role

Job Description: The RF Test Engineer I is responsible for characterizing, testing, and analyzing RF and microwave devices, components, and printed circuit board assemblies using Vector Network Analyzers (VNAs), wafer probing systems, and automated test equipment. The engineer will perform measurements up to 80 GHz, analyze test data, correlate measured performance to simulation results, and support both product development and customer-facing technical activities. This position works closely with design engineering, manufacturing, customers, and external partners to ensure accurate characterization, data interpretation, and resolution of technical challenges. The ideal candidate possesses a strong foundation in RF engineering principles, excellent analytical skills, and a desire to develop expertise in high-frequency measurements and automated test methods.

Responsibilities include: 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 Insertion loss Return loss Isolation Impedance characteristics Frequency response Execute calibration procedures including SOLT, TRL, and other industry-standard techniques. Verify measurement integrity and maintain compliance with documented test methodologies. Accurately document test setup configurations and measurement results. Wafer Probe & Automated Testing Operate manual and automated RF probing equipment. Perform wafer-level characterization and device validation. Set up and maintain automated measurement routines. Support development and execution of automated RF test programs. Troubleshoot test station, instrumentation, and probing issues. Collaborate with engineering teams to improve test efficiency and repeatability. Data Analysis & Correlation Analyze RF test results and identify anomalies, trends, and performance limitations. Correlate measured results with: Simulation models Electromagnetic (EM) simulations Product specifications Design expectations Assist design engineers in identifying discrepancies between predicted and measured performance. Generate technical reports, presentations, and engineering summaries. Customer & Stakeholder Support Support technical discussions with internal stakeholders, customers, and external partners. Present measurement results and technical findings in a clear and professional manner. Provide test data and characterization results in support of customer evaluations and product qualifications. Assist customers in understanding measurement methodologies and performance results. Act as a technical liaison between test, design, manufacturing, and customer engineering teams. Continuous Improvement Identify opportunities to improve test methods, automation, throughput, and data quality. Support development of new test capabilities and characterization procedures. Participate in process improvement and equipment qualification activities. Contribute to documentation and standardization of laboratory best practices. Required

Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in: Electrical EngineeringRF Engineering Electronics Engineering Engineering Physics Related technical discipline Understanding of RF and microwave fundamentals. Familiarity with transmission line theory and S-parameters. Basic knowledge of RF measurement instrumentation. Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities. Effective written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.

Job Requirements: Internship, co-op, undergraduate research, or laboratory experience involving RF measurements. Familiarity with: Vector Network Analyzers (VNA)Spectrum Analyzers Signal Generators Probe Stations Exposure to RF simulation tools such as: Ansys HFSSKeysight ADSCST Studio Suite Cadence AWRExperience with Python, MATLAB, or similar data analysis tools. Exposure to automated measurement systems. Knowledge of semiconductor device characterization.

Technical Skills: RF Measurement Vector Network Analyzer (VNA)S-Parameter Analysis Calibration TechniquesRF Characterization Microwave Measurements Wafer-Level Testing Probe Station Operation Signal Integrity Analysis Software & Data Analysis PythonMATLABExcel Statistical Analysis Data Visualization Automated Test SystemsRF Concepts Transmission Lines Impedance Matching Scattering Parameters (S-Parameters)RF Loss Mechanisms Signal Integrity Microwave NetworksRF Component Characterization

Competencies: Strong analytical thinking Scientific curiosity Detail-oriented approach Effective technical communication Customer-focused mindset Collaborative problem solving Continuous learning attitude Ability to balance laboratory and customer-facing responsibilities Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)Measurement accuracy and repeatability Test throughput and efficiency Correlation between measured and simulated results Data quality and reporting accuracy Customer responsiveness Timely completion of characterization projects Continuous improvement contributions Typical Career ProgressionRF Test Engineer IRF Test Engineer IISenior RF Test EngineerRF Applications Engineer Characterization EngineerRF Product Engineer Principal RF Engineer

Ideal Candidate Profile: A highly motivated early-career engineer who enjoys both hands-on laboratory work and technical analysis. This individual is comfortable operating VNAs and RF probing systems, investigating measurement results, correlating laboratory data to simulation models, and communicating technical findings to engineering teams and customers. The successful candidate combines strong RF fundamentals with curiosity, attention to detail, and a passion for solving complex high-frequency measurement challenges. Job Details

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Research & Development

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