RF Systems Verification Engineer

About the Role

Measure and characterize RF components (PA, LNA) and phased array performance to verify the front-end architecture. Build automated test infrastructure using Python/MATLAB to systematically validate that hardware meets architectural specifications across temperature, frequency, and operating conditions.

Responsibilities

• Verify PA performance meets architectural specifications through load-pull and large-signal characterization.
• Verify LNA performance meets architectural NF/gain/IP3 specifications through noise parameter and gain measurement.
• Verify array-level performance meets architecture predictions through beam measurement.
• Develop automated test frameworks that enable repeatable architecture verification across builds/lots.
• Correlate measured data with architectural simulation models — identify gaps and feed back to architecture team.
• Generate measured-data models to update and refine architectural predictions.

PA Characterization (Architecture Verification)

• Load-pull measurement: active/passive, harmonic (2f0, 3f0), source-pull, efficiency contouring.
• Verify PA meets architecture specs: Psat, P1dB, PAE, OIP3, ACLR targets.
• Large-signal: AM-AM/AM-PM extraction, gain compression, memory effects.
• DPD validation: bench-level DPD loop, verify architecture's DPD effectiveness assumption.
• Multi-temperature: derating curves to validate architectural margin allocation.

LNA Characterization (Architecture Verification)

• Noise figure: Y-factor, cold-source (PNA-X), noise parameter extraction (Γopt, Rn, NFmin).
• Verify LNA meets architecture specs: NF target, gain flatness, IP3, stability.
• Gain/linearity across frequency and temperature.
• Stability verification: odd-mode, low-frequency stability.

Array-Level Verification

• Phased array beam measurement: multi-beam patterns, scan-dependent performance.
• EIRP/EIS measurement: verify architecture's radiated power and sensitivity targets.
• Beam quality: sidelobes, null depth, cross-pol — compare to architectural predictions.
• Calibration verification: validate calibration algorithm performance meets architecture assumptions.
• Near-field scanning of active phased array panels.

Test Fixture & Setup

• Fixture design for bare-die, QFN, BGA, and array-level measurement.
• Calibration: TRL/SOLT/LRM, reference plane definition.
• Thermal integration: chamber + RF bench for multi-temperature architecture verification.

Skills

Software & Coding Skills Required (Critical)

• Python (PyVISA/SCPI): Full instrument automation — VNA, signal generator, power meter, spectrum analyzer, positioner, tuner control.
• MATLAB: Data processing, model extraction from measured data, architecture correlation analysis.
• Test Framework Development: Automated architecture verification test suites, parametric sweeps, pass/fail against architectural specs.
• Data Pipeline: Measurement → processing → comparison against architecture predictions → reporting.
• Git: Version-controlled test code, CI for measurement scripts.

Test Equipment Expertise

• VNA: Keysight PNA-X (multiport, noise figure, pulsed-RF).
• Load-pull: Maury/Focus automated tuners, active load-pull.
• Signal sources: PSG/MXG, AWG for modulated waveforms.
• Spectrum analyzers: PXA/UXA.
• Noise figure: PNA-X noise personality, noise sources.
• NF scanner: NSI or MI Technologies for array beam measurement.
• Power meters, thermal chambers, probe stations.

Not Required for This Role

• RF circuit design (ADS schematic, AWR) — this is test/verification, not design.
• Antenna element EM simulation (HFSS, CST).
• PCB layout or signal integrity.
• FPGA/RTL design.
• Package design.
• Manufacturing/NPI process ownership.

Qualifications

Required

• MS in EE (RF/Microwave).
• 5+ years RF component and/or antenna characterization experience.
• Strong Python programming — test framework development, not just scripting.
• Expert VNA operation including calibration and de-embedding.
• Load-pull experience with efficiency contour generation.
• Noise figure measurement proficiency (Y-factor and cold-source).
• Array-level beam measurement experience.
• Multi-temperature characterization.
• Experience correlating measurements against design/architecture predictions.

Preferred

• Ka-band and/or L/S-band component testing.
• On-wafer probing and MMIC characterization.
• DPD bench-loop validation.
• Automated test framework development (production-level).
• Experience working with architects to refine specifications based on measured data.

Deliverables

• PA characterization data verifying architectural PA specifications.
• LNA noise parameter data verifying architectural NF specifications.
• Array-level measurement results verifying architectural beam/EIRP/G/T predictions.
• Automated architecture verification test framework (Python, version-controlled).
• Measurement-vs-architecture correlation reports (identifying model gaps).
• Measured-data models fed back to architectural simulation.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance plans.
• Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP).
• 401K program with company match after 12 months of tenure.
• Health Savings Account (HSA) on the HDHP plan.
• SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions.
• Corporate discount savings program and other discounts.
• On-demand training program, access to certification prep, and a library of technical/leadership courses/books/seminars after 6+ months of tenure.
• Certification discounts and perks for associations including CompTIA and IIBA.
• Dedicated customer service team for consultants and a certified Career Coach.