What are the responsibilities and job description for the Principal Test Engineer - Space & RF Systems position at Approach Venture?
Principal Test Engineer – Build Next-Generation RF and Microwave Test Systems for Space and Defense!
Camarillo, CA | Onsite
Opportunity Summary
A fast-growing technology company is seeking a Principal Test Engineer to design and deliver cutting-edge automated test solutions for advanced RF and microwave hardware used across both commercial and defense programs. In this role, you will own the full lifecycle of Automated Test Equipment (ATE) development, from design and deployment to validation and reporting.
This position offers the chance to combine software engineering expertise with a strong foundation in RF principles, supporting mission-critical programs that demand precision and reliability. If you are excited by the opportunity to modernize legacy systems, shape company-wide test strategies, and directly impact next-generation aerospace and defense technologies, this is a role where your contributions will be highly visible.
About Us
We are a U.S.-based engineering and manufacturing leader providing advanced RF hardware solutions for space, airborne, and ground platforms. With an established track record supporting both government and commercial customers, our team designs, qualifies, and ships highly reliable products that operate in some of the most demanding environments. Our mission is to deliver world-class solutions while fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Job Duties
$120,000 - $185,000
Camarillo, CA | Onsite
Opportunity Summary
A fast-growing technology company is seeking a Principal Test Engineer to design and deliver cutting-edge automated test solutions for advanced RF and microwave hardware used across both commercial and defense programs. In this role, you will own the full lifecycle of Automated Test Equipment (ATE) development, from design and deployment to validation and reporting.
This position offers the chance to combine software engineering expertise with a strong foundation in RF principles, supporting mission-critical programs that demand precision and reliability. If you are excited by the opportunity to modernize legacy systems, shape company-wide test strategies, and directly impact next-generation aerospace and defense technologies, this is a role where your contributions will be highly visible.
About Us
We are a U.S.-based engineering and manufacturing leader providing advanced RF hardware solutions for space, airborne, and ground platforms. With an established track record supporting both government and commercial customers, our team designs, qualifies, and ships highly reliable products that operate in some of the most demanding environments. Our mission is to deliver world-class solutions while fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Job Duties
- Lead the design, development, and deployment of RF Automated Test Equipment (ATE) systems, with a primary focus on Python-based implementations.
- Collaborate with hardware and product engineers to create test solutions that validate device performance under diverse operating conditions.
- Establish and refine software architecture and strategies for code reuse across projects.
- Develop, implement, and enforce best practices in software processes, including version control, code review, and coding standards.
- Maintain and enhance legacy ATE systems written in LabVIEW and Keysight/Agilent VEE.
- Drive the migration of older systems into modern platforms such as Python-based environments.
- Build and update automated data processing and reporting applications, leveraging visualization tools like Tableau or Power BI.
- Prepare comprehensive test data sheets and deliver customer-facing reports.
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related discipline.
- 5 years of professional experience in software development.
- Advanced proficiency in Python, including libraries for data analysis and processing (NumPy, Pandas, SciPy) and visualization (Matplotlib, Plotly, or equivalent).
- Strong understanding of electronics and RF concepts, including spectral analysis, S-parameters, noise figure, phase noise, spurious signals, and related principles.
- Demonstrated expertise in the software development lifecycle, revision control tools, and modern engineering practices.
- Skilled in working with Microsoft Windows environments and advanced Excel capabilities.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to clearly document and present technical information.
- Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
- Familiarity with graphical programming tools such as LabVIEW and Keysight/Agilent VEE.
- Experience automating tests with equipment like network analyzers, oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, temperature chambers, and RF switch matrices.
- Ability to review and generate documentation, including schematics, test specifications, and procedures.
- Working knowledge of SQL-based databases.
- Experience using modern data visualization platforms (e.g., Tableau, Power BI).
- High-growth company working on cutting-edge aerospace and defense technologies.
- Direct ownership and visibility of projects from start to finish.
- Collaborative, team-focused environment where innovation is valued.
- Competitive benefits including health coverage, PTO, and retirement plans.
- Equity options and performance-based growth opportunities.
$120,000 - $185,000
Salary : $120,000 - $185,000