RF Test Technician

Job Summary:

The RF Test Technician will conduct RF measurements on semiconductor components such as amplifiers, switches, filters, mixers, multi-chip modules, and integrated microwave assemblies that operate from DC to 40 GHz. The Technician will complete tuning and moderate problem solving which will require a understanding of Engineering standards and the ability to comprehend basic block diagrams.  In addition, the Technician may be asked prepare test reports and data in accordance with Acceptance Test Procedures (ATP) and may help write Acceptance Testing Procedures.

Job Responsibilities:

• Tune, test and troubleshoot microwave components from 20MHz to 40GHz, including but not limited to, filters, mixers, switches, diplexers, multiplexers, filter-LNAs, amplifiers and integrated microwave assemblies (IMAs)
• Test thermal, shock, vibration and environmental tests, troubleshooting/problem solving, debugging of moderate problems by using a variety of test equipment, including bus analyzers, oscilloscopes and logic analyzers to ensure the highest quality of integrated and tested products
• Perform RF/Microwave related tests utilizing laboratory equipment including network analyzers, signal analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes, function generators, high power amplifiers, noise meters, power meters, and multi-meters
• Set-up test equipment for testing of production hardware under minimal supervision
• Work from schematics, work instructions, drawings and operating procedures
• May assist engineers with new design and development activities including prototyping and first article units
• Conduct manual and automated production tests on RF semiconductor components
• Develop an understanding of operation, and parametric behavior of RF components
• Perform occasional surface mount assembly/rework with hand soldering equipment.

Required Qualifications:

• High School Diploma
• Typically requires five or more years' experience in RF and Microwave component testing
• Understand lumped element, cavity and waveguide filter theory and tuning
• Understand meaning of electrical measurements including but not limited to return loss, insertion loss, rejection, gain, noise figure, 1 dB compression, intermodulation, harmonics, spurious, etc.
• Understand DC theory (Ohm's Law)
• Experience in following test instructions and manufacturing procedures
• Ability to work under a microscope including excellent hand-eye coordination
• Physical hand dexterity to perform all duties needed to complete the work (will require using small hand tools for prolonged periods)
• Ability to clearly communicate in written and spoken English
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Word and Excel
• Familiarity with electronic circuits fundamentals, and RF measurement methods
• Ability to use lab test equipment including vector network analyzers, RF signal generators, spectrum analyzers, power meters, digital multi-meters, and basic electronic tools

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate Degree in Electronics

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to:

• Constantly move objects and use abdominal and lower back muscles to provide support over time without fatigue.  Specific abilities required by the job include positioning oneself to lift or move objects weighing up to 40lbs.
• Constant movement and use of limbs. Specific abilities required by this job include prolonged sitting, twisting and working under a microscope for long periods of time will be required. Occasional Standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, crawling, climbing, and gripping is required daily.
• Frequently observe, detect, discern, and convey information. Specific abilities required by this job include near, far and color vision acuity, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
• Requires good manual dexterity, coordination, and stamina. Ability to safely control surgical razor blades and small hand tools used to manipulate tuning stub under a microscope. Specific abilities required by this job include the frequent requirement of overtime work.

“This position requires you to have or obtain a government security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens.”