Antenna Test Engineer

Job Title: Antenna Test Software Engineer Job Description
The Antenna Test Software Engineer plays a key role in a mission-focused test engineering organization, developing automated test software and working hands-on with advanced RF and antenna systems. This position offers a balanced mix of software development and hardware integration, giving early to mid-career engineers the opportunity to apply and expand their knowledge in radar, electronic warfare, and related systems. You will design and implement automation for antenna test processes, integrate new equipment in a state-of-the-art facility, and collaborate closely with RF design engineers to improve both hardware and test capabilities.
Responsibilities
- Develop software in C, C++, and MATLAB to automate antenna test processes, optimize data processing, and support detailed data analysis.
- Design and implement test software to control and automate test fixtures in Nearfield and Compact Antenna Ranges.
- Create, document, and maintain software programs used to automate RF and antenna test procedures.
- Integrate new RF test equipment and programs into a state-of-the-art antenna test facility.
- Design, enhance, and support test equipment used for factory phased array antenna testing.
- Utilize RF test equipment such as oscilloscopes, network analyzers, power meters, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, and related instruments to test and troubleshoot advanced antenna systems.
- Troubleshoot RF issues that arise during testing of advanced antenna systems and phased array antennas.
- Support technicians by providing troubleshooting assistance, technical guidance, and hands-on training on test software and equipment.
- Perform detailed analysis of antenna test data to identify early performance trends and potential issues.
- Participate in program meetings to support root cause analysis and development of corrective actions for test or performance issues.
- Collaborate closely with design engineering teams to recommend and implement hardware and test process improvements.
- Maintain strong awareness of cost, schedule, and quality while adhering to established policies and procedures.
- Document test procedures, software changes, and test results to ensure repeatable and reliable test operations.
- Contribute to continuous improvement of test methodologies, automation frameworks, and lab practices.
Essential Skills
- Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
- 5+ years of professional or project-based experience (including academic projects) in software development using C and/or C++ and MATLAB.
- Demonstrated experience programming software in C/C++ or MATLAB to automate test fixtures or test processes.
- Experience developing test software for Nearfield and Compact Antenna Range environments.
- Hands-on experience with RF design or RF testing involving antennas through coursework, projects, or professional work.
- Hands-on experience testing in a lab environment using electrical test equipment such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, and network analyzers.
- Ability to troubleshoot RF issues during testing of advanced antenna systems and phased array antennas.
- Proficiency in using RF and test instrumentation including oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, power meters, and signal generators.
- Strong analytical skills to evaluate test data and identify early trends or anomalies.
- Ability to work collaboratively with technicians and design engineers to resolve issues and improve test processes.
- Solid understanding of software development practices and test automation principles.
- Strong attention to detail with a focus on cost, schedule, and quality.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Experience with antenna testing in Nearfield and Compact Antenna Ranges.
- Background or interest in radar, electronic warfare, and EO/IR-related systems.
- Previous experience in a mixed software and hardware role, especially involving RF systems.
- Exposure to phased array antenna test equipment design and factory test environments.
- Experience supporting program meetings and contributing to root cause and corrective action activities.
- Interest in long-term career growth within a large engineering organization, including exploring different programs, groups, or technical specialties over time.
- Ability to mentor or support less-experienced team members and technicians in test methods and tools.
Work Environment
This role is based in a mixed lab and range environment that includes both indoor and outdoor antenna test ranges. Engineers work closely with RF design engineers to create test equipment and automated test software used to evaluate RF products. The setting includes a state-of-the-art facility with extensive RF test equipment such as oscilloscopes, network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, power meters, signal generators, and other specialized lab instruments. Work is performed primarily on cleared programs, and the lab operates 24/7 with multiple shifts to ensure continuous test coverage and smooth transitions between first and second shifts. The position offers a hands-on environment where you will regularly interact with hardware, RF systems, and automated test setups, providing a strong connection between software development and practical engineering applications.
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)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in LINTHICUM HEIGHTS,MD.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Oct 20, 2026. 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 [email protected] 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.