Antenna Test Engineer

Job Title: Antenna Test Software Engineer

Job Description

The Antenna Test Software Engineer develops and supports automated test solutions for advanced phased array antenna systems within a mission-focused test engineering organization. This role combines software development with hands-on work in RF test environments, giving early to mid-career engineers the opportunity to apply and expand their skills in both coding and hardware testing. The engineer designs and integrates test software and equipment, analyzes antenna test data, and collaborates closely with RF design engineers and technicians to improve test processes, hardware performance, and overall product quality.

Responsibilities

• Develop software in C, C++, and MATLAB to automate antenna test processes, optimize data processing, and support data analysis for factory phased array testing.
• Design and implement test software and test equipment solutions for phased array antenna testing in nearfield and compact antenna ranges.
• Integrate new test equipment and software programs into a state-of-the-art antenna test facility.
• Create and maintain software programs that automate test fixtures and test sequences for RF and antenna systems.
• Utilize RF test equipment, including oscilloscopes, network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, power meters, signal generators, and related instruments to test and troubleshoot advanced antenna systems.
• Troubleshoot RF issues during testing of advanced antenna systems and support root cause identification and resolution.
• Perform detailed analysis of antenna test data, identify early performance trends, and provide actionable insights to the engineering team.
• Participate in program meetings to support development of root cause and corrective actions for test and performance issues.
• Collaborate with design engineering teams to recommend and implement hardware and test process improvements.
• Support technicians with troubleshooting guidance, test procedures, and training on test software and equipment.
• Maintain strong awareness of cost, schedule, and quality while adhering to established policies, procedures, and engineering standards.

Essential Skills

• Proficiency in programming with C and C++ to develop and maintain automated test software.
• Experience using MATLAB to automate test processes, perform data analysis, and support antenna test automation.
• Demonstrated ability to program software to automate test fixtures and test sequences.
• Experience with test software development for nearfield and compact antenna ranges.
• Hands-on experience with RF testing or RF design involving antennas through coursework, projects, or professional work.
• Hands-on experience working in a lab environment with electrical test equipment such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, and network analyzers.
• Ability to troubleshoot RF issues during testing of advanced antenna systems.
• Ability to analyze test data, identify early trends, and communicate findings clearly.
• Strong collaboration skills to work effectively with design engineers and technicians on hardware and test improvements.
• Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• Approximately 5 or more years of professional or project-based experience (including academic projects) in software development with C, C++, or MATLAB.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working with spectrum analyzers, power meters, and signal generators in RF test environments.
• Experience or interest in radar, electronic warfare, or EO/IR systems.
• Experience designing or supporting test equipment for phased array or other advanced RF systems.
• Familiarity with automating data collection and reporting in a lab or range environment.
• Ability to balance multiple priorities while maintaining focus on cost, schedule, and quality objectives.
• Motivation to grow within an organization that supports internal mobility and long-term career development.

Work Environment

The role operates in a mixed lab and range environment, including both indoor and outdoor antenna test ranges. Engineers work closely with RF design engineers to develop test equipment and automated test software used to evaluate RF products. The facility includes a state-of-the-art antenna test range and a fully equipped RF lab with oscilloscopes, multimeters, network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, power meters, signal generators, and related test equipment. Work is primarily performed on cleared programs, and the lab operates 24/7, with multiple shifts to ensure continuous test coverage and smooth handoffs between teams. The environment is hands-on, technical, and collaborative, offering significant exposure to real-world RF systems and test operations.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MD.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $43.27 - $76.92/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MD.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 6, 2026.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in LINTHICUM HEIGHTS,MD.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.