RF Test Engineering Lead - Space RF Systems

We are seeking a RF Test Engineering Lead to own the test lifecycle for production circuit card assemblies (CCAs) and integrated RF systems-from proof-of-concept prototypes through high-rate production. You will define test regimes, develop automated test solutions, diagnose and drive resolution of test failures, and scale capability and throughput in partnership with Design, Manufacturing, Quality, and Contract Manufacturers (CMs) to meet performance, cost, schedule, and reliability objectives.

On any given day, the selected candidate may be asked to perform the following:

• Define, implement, and sustain acceptance tests for CCAs (Rx/Tx/control/power) with clear entry/exit criteria, coverage metrics, and pass/fail limits; maintain golden units and calibration artifacts.
• Plan end-to-end regimens (bench bring-up, environmental stress screening, regression) aligned to program/DoD requirements; coordinate thermal/vibe screens and readiness reviews.
• Architect automated test sequences (Python/LabVIEW/MATLAB or similar) for VNAs, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, power meters, oscilloscopes, and RF switch matrices; integrate data logging, serialization, and dashboards; manage version control and CI where appropriate.
• Lead structured triage and root-cause analysis (e.g., 8D, Ishikawa) using RF debug methods (S-parameters, gain/NF, phase noise, linearity-P1dB/IP3, EVM/ACLR, spurious analysis); drive corrective actions with Design/Manufacturing.
• Stand up initial capability for early prototypes and evolve to stable, high-throughput stations at CMs (fixtures, job recipes, run rules, cycle-time targets, FPY monitoring).
• Partner with design teams to embed DFT features (testpoints, loopbacks, couplers), improve coverage, and prevent escapes; provide clear feedback from defect paretos and trend analyses.
• Support tile/array/system integration, calibration, and over-the-air test; coordinate chamber/range time, test scripts, and data reviews for beamforming and end-to-end performance.
• Author and maintain test procedures, work instructions, acceptance criteria, and reports; ensure configuration control, traceability, and alignment with contract/ITAR requirements.
• Enforce ESD and safety practices; maintain calibration schedules and equipment readiness; specify/oversee custom fixtures, interfaces, and load boards.
• Coordinate with CMs and vendors to resolve test issues, optimize throughput, and align change control (MRB/CCB); provide training and mentorship to technicians/engineers.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or related engineering field.
• 5+ years in RF test engineering with increasing responsibility; 2+ years leading teams or test projects for production RF hardware.
• Hands-on with RF measurements and analysis: S-parameters, gain/NF, linearity (P1dB/IP3), modulation metrics (EVM/ACLR), phase noise, timing/synchronization, PLL/synth chains, PA/LNA/mixer characterization.
• Proficiency automating instruments and data pipelines (Python and/or LabVIEW; MATLAB a plus) using SCPI/IVI; experience with LAN/USB/GPIB control, data historians/MES, and dashboarding (e.g., Power BI/Tableau/SQL).
• Demonstrated success transitioning tests from engineering to manufacturing (fixtures, golden units, GR&R/MSA, SPC, yield and cycle-time improvement).
• Working knowledge of IPC-A-610 workmanship, ANSI/ESD S20.20, environmental/EMI test practices (e.g., MIL-STD-810/461 as applicable), calibration traceability, and DoD documentation norms.
• Ability to obtain a U.S. DoD Top-Secret/SCI clearance.

Desired Qualifications

• Phased-array/TR module experience (tile/array calibration, beamforming, OTA methods).
• Environmental screening (thermal cycling, vibe/shock), reliability tools (derating, FMEA), and data-driven RCCA.
• Experience deploying test at CMs, including fixture design, switch matrices, and multi-site scaling.
• Familiarity with PLM (e.g., Arena/Windchill), issue tracking (e.g., JIRA), and rapid change control (MRB/CCB).
• Database experience (SQL) and statistical methods (DOE, SPC, Cp/Cpk).
• Proven ability to lead day-to-day lab operations, run test readiness/design reviews, train personnel, and communicate concisely with suppliers and stakeholders.
• Active DoD security clearance.

Salary Range: $115,000 - $150,000
The BlueHalo pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Determination of official compensation or salary relies on several factors including, but not limited to, level of position, job responsibilities, geographic location, scope of relevant work experience, educational background, certifications, contract-specific affordability, organizational requirements, alignment with local internal equity as well as alignment with market data.

Our compensation package also includes components designed to support employees' total well-being, which should be considered when evaluating our competitive benefits package. These benefits include health insurance, life insurance, disability, company holiday and paid time off, parental leave, 401(k) company match and contributions, professional development/training reimbursements, and other work/life programs.