What are the responsibilities and job description for the Radio Frequency Technician position at Fusion Cell?
The Company
Established in over a decade ago and founded and funded by Veterans and Patriots, our client has developed airborne ISR terminals specifically for the U.S. warfighter—capabilities previously unavailable. Their antennas allow users, while in flight, to select the frequency band and target satellite needed to support the mission in real time. Proudly built in the USA.
The RF Test Technician role supports their products with their current clients as well as the expansion into new clients. They will have skills in designing, developing and maintaining wireless communication systems. This role involves configuring, testing and troubleshooting RF components used in mobile satellite communication systems. This position will interface with a range of RF Test Equipment and SATCOM components, including Antennas, Beacon Receivers, Block Up-Converters (BCUs), Low-Noise Block down-converters (LNBs), Modems, GPS/Reference modules and Bit Error Rate Testers (BERTs).
This self-motivated team member will focus, and complete assigned tasks yet also adjust to changing priorities and schedules and coordinate several tasks in multiple areas. Work instructions may be verbal or written, working closely with other engineers.
Responsibilities will include:
- Test Setup and Configuration: Perform configuration and diagnostics for various RF test setups and equipment configurations as required for component and system level testing, per system block diagrams and test procedures.
- Testing and Troubleshooting: Operate specialized test equipment such as Signal and Spectrum Analyzers, Network Analyzers, Power Meters, Signal Generators, Satellite Simulators, Oscilloscopes, etc. to test and troubleshoot RF communication systems.
- System Integration: Work with cross-functional teams to ensure designs meet overall system requirements and perform end-to-end SATCOM system testing.
- Operational Support: Perform fault verification and analysis and corrective and preventative maintenance, working with on- and off-site teams.
- Documentation: Create and update test procedures and test data records. Create failure, discrepancy and non-conformance reports.
- Technical Support: Perform fault verification and analysis and perform corrective and preventative maintenance, working with on- and off-site teams.
- Organization: Organize and maintain RF test lab assets, components and cable harnesses.
- Maintenance: Perform corrective and preventative maintenance on- and off-site
Other Tasks
- Performs maintenance and operation functions associated with the electronic and mechanical equipment in assigned laboratory or work area
- Assist in antenna pattern measurements and electrical tests of microwave transmission line components
- Maintenance of test data
- Examines test samples and reads blueprints, schematics, wiring diagrams, measuring instruments, and operational instructions
- Builds and/or adapts setup and test equipment to new situations, based on data sheets and instructions from engineering department personnel
- Operates designated machines and laboratory equipment
- Assembly of breadboards, test fixtures and wiring harnesses
- Builds and/or adapts setup and test equipment to new situations, based on data sheets and instructions from engineering department personnel
Qualifications for the RF Test Technician:
- Education: Technical Degree in Electronics or a related field, and/or equivalent Military training and experience, preferably in SATCOM.
- Technical Skills: Knowledge of RF technologies, test equipment and procedures. Basic knowledge of RF and SW troubleshooting (3-5 yrs), electronics and ESD procedures.
- Communication: Good communication skills for working with other professionals in a close-knit, dynamic group, eager to develop solutions. Ability to read and comprehend written work instructions,
- Experience: Network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, signal generators, power meters, BERTs, Digital Multimeters using current and voltage probes. Basic LAN/IP configuration/troubleshooting. MS Office proficiency.
- Qualifications: Be a U.S. Citizen and able to complete a satisfactory background check. Be willing to travel, up to 20% of total work schedule. Ability to complete HAZMAT Training and Surveillance provided by company
Desired Skills and Experience:
- SATCOM/RF Testing Experience - 3yrs
- Bit Error Rate Tester Equipment Experience - 3yrs
- Signal Generator Equipment Experience - 3yrs
- Spectrum Analyzer Equipment Experience - 3yrs
- Network Analyzer Equipment Experience - 3yrs