Engineering Technician, R&D

ABOUT THE TEAM

You will join a dynamic R&D Engineering team focused on designing, prototyping, and deploying cutting-edge electro-mechanical systems in the EW (Electromagnetic Warfare) domain. The team thrives on rapid iteration, cross-functional collaboration, and delivering high-quality hardware in challenging environments. As part of this group, you will work closely with design engineers, firmware/software teams, and test specialists to bring new capabilities from concept to field‐ready deployment.

As an Engineering Technician, you will be a hands-on enabler of both prototype and production hardware related to electronic warfare systems. You will support multiple projects by handling assembly, rework, test setup, maintenance, and field readiness activities. This role is essential to keep engineering momentum high, ensuring hardware is built to specification, tested thoroughly, and maintained to perform reliably under operational conditions.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

• Operate RF test equipment such as Vector Signal Generators (VSGs), Spectrum Analyzers, Vector Network Analyzers (VNAs), Power Sensors, and more.
• Conduct testing in specialized environments, including anechoic chambers, antenna range measurements, and other RF-controlled conditions.
• Assemble, configure, and calibrate test setups involving RF equipment, antennas, connectors, cables, and related components.
• Troubleshoot RF systems and equipment for functionality, frequency response, signal integrity, power measurement, and overall performance.
• Follow test protocols, capture data, and create detailed documentation of test results to aid engineers in system evaluation and improvement.
• Basic soldering tasks to modify RF components, replace connectors, and repair minor faults.
• Knowledge of RF connectors, adapters, and cable assemblies (e.g., SMA, N-type, BNC, etc.).
• Support the assembly of prototype and production units, including mechanical installs, basic wiring, and integration of RF and electro-mechanical components.
• Perform simple mechanical tasks such as installation of brackets, modules, or housings into units under engineer guidance.
• Assist with general lab maintenance, including organization, cleaning, inventory tracking, and ensuring proper ESD and safety practices are followed.
• Collaborate with other technicians and engineers to ensure timely progress across multiple projects and priorities.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Extensive hands-on experience in RF testing, validation, and working with RF equipment.
• Proficiency in operating RF tools such as VSGs, VNAs, Spectrum Analyzers, Power Sensors, and other instruments.
• Experience with controlled RF environments such as anechoic chambers or antenna range measurements.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for RF systems and electro-mechanical assemblies.
• Basic soldering skills for RF and mechanical component modifications and repairs.
• Ability to assemble mechanical and electrical systems (e.g., prototypes, integration of RF components, test fixtures).
• Solid understanding of RF connectors, cable assemblies, and proper handling practices for RF equipment.
• Familiarity with safety regulations, ESD protocols, and clean lab procedures.
• Excellent organizational skills for managing equipment, inventory, and documentation.
• Adaptable to a fast-paced R&D environment with a willingness to support multiple types of tasks across RF and lab operations.
• Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. security clearance

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Prior experience in the defense or aerospace sector, or other industries requiring ruggedized RF solutions.
• Advanced soldering skills for rework and connector assembly (fine-pitch or high-frequency components).
• Understanding of high-frequency RF technologies and GHz-range testing methods.
• Knowledge of electro-mechanical integration, including vibration testing, connector installation, and mechanical assembly methods.
• Familiarity with environmental testing, such as thermal or shock testing of RF hardware.
• Experience with lab management tools, version control for hardware documentation, or RF system modeling software.