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 complex tuning and moderate problem solving, which will require a solid understanding of Engineering standards and the ability to comprehend basic block diagrams. In addition, the Technician will prepare complex 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 and problem solving of moderate to complex 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 and 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.
• Solve practical problems encountered in an efficient and timely manner. • Set-up test equipment for testing of production hardware. • Assist engineers with new design and development activities, including prototyping and first article units. • Conduct manual and automated production tests on RF semiconductor components. • Record and organize test results and communicate the status of various production efforts. • Operate, troubleshoot, and maintain electronics measurement equipment. • Develop an understanding of operation and parametric behavior of RF components. • Perform occasional surface mount assembly and rework with hand soldering equipment.
Required Qualifications
High School Diploma
Seven or more years of experience in RF and Microwave component testing
Understand lumped element cavity and waveguide filter theory and tuning
Understand the meaning of electrical measurements, including but not limited to:
• Return loss • Insertion loss • Rejection • Gain • Noise figure • 1 dB compression • Intermodulation • Harmonics • Spurious
Understand DC theory and Ohms 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, requiring the use of small hand tools for prolonged periods
Excellent written and verbal English communication skills
Proficient use of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.)
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 Qualification
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. • Occasional standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, 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.