What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior RF Technician - Defense Electronics (Software Defined Radio Test & Assembly) position at Herrick Technology Laboratories, Inc.?
We are seeking an experienced Senior RF Technician to support the assembly, integration, test, and troubleshooting of advanced software-defined radio (SDR) systems and RF subsystems spanning low frequency through 50 GHz.
Description:
This role requires deep hands-on technical expertise in RF/microwave hardware, proficiency with advanced test methodologies, and the ability to collaborate closely with engineering to resolve complex performance issues and support new product introduction (NPI).
Key Responsibilities:
- System-level and board-level integration, test, and troubleshooting of SDR platforms and RF subsystems.
- Perform advanced RF measurements (gain, noise figure, linearity, phase noise, spurious emissions, etc.) across the operating spectrum up to 50 GHz.
- Operate, program, and maintain complex RF/microwave test equipment including VNAs, spectrum analyzers, phase noise analyzers, power meters, oscilloscopes, and signal generators.
- Support engineering root-cause analysis and corrective action for product nonconformance, identifying circuit-level and system-level issues.
- Collaborate with design and systems engineers during prototype builds, verification testing, and design validation, providing real-time feedback on performance issues and manufacturability.
- Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior technicians on assembly, testing, and troubleshooting practices.
- Ensure test data integrity, proper documentation, and traceability in compliance with AS9100/ISO9001 quality management standards.
- Work cross-functionally with engineering, quality, and program management teams to drive continuous improvement in test methodologies, assembly practices, and product performance.
Qualifications
Required:
- Associate s degree in Electronics Technology, RF/Microwave Engineering, or equivalent military/industry background; Bachelor s in related discipline preferred.
- 5 years of hands-on RF test and troubleshooting experience in defense, aerospace, or advanced telecom environments.
- Strong expertise in diagnosing RF/microwave hardware issues at the board, module, and system level.
- Proficiency with advanced RF instrumentation (VNA calibration and de-embedding, time-domain gating, noise figure analyzers, etc.).
- Experience supporting engineering change activities (ECNs/SAIs) and providing feedback for design-for-test and design-for-manufacture improvements.
- Ability to read and interpret RF schematics, system block diagrams, and test specifications.
Preferred:
- Direct experience with software-defined radio architectures and RF/digital signal interaction.
- Hands-on experience with automated test systems and scripting (Python, LabVIEW, MATLAB, or similar).
Work Environment:
- Laboratory and defense electronics production floor environment.
- Involves frequent handling of precision RF/microwave components and connectors.
- Occasional lifting up to 25 lbs. and use of mechanical/hand tools.
Benefits:
- Startup Environment
- Competitive Salaries
- Health Insurance
- 401K Matching
- Bonuses for superior performance
Salary : $40 - $60