DAS RF Engineer

MidPoint Technology Group; Cincinnati (OH); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

MidPoint Technology Group seeks an experienced DAS RF Engineer to design, deploy, and optimize distributed antenna systems across diverse environments. You will conduct site surveys, model propagation, and collaborate with clients and vendors to meet performance requirements.

The role requires 3–5 years in RF engineering with DAS focus, proficiency in iBwave/Atoll, and the ability to work on rooftops, construction sites, and technical facilities. Ohio/Kentucky travel expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or related field.
• 3–5 years of RF engineering experience with emphasis on DAS design, installation, and optimization.
• Experience with DAS planning tools, RF measurement tools, and network optimization software.
• Familiarity with DAS components such as antennas, repeaters, cabling, and RF distribution systems.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop DAS solutions tailored to customer needs, ensuring reliable coverage and efficient use of RF spectrum.
• Conduct site surveys to evaluate the environment and determine the optimal DAS configuration.
• Design RF propagation models and coverage maps to optimize signal distribution.
• Collaborate with clients to determine requirements and specifications for DAS installations.
• Perform RF testing to assess system performance, signal strength, and quality.
• Optimize DAS networks by troubleshooting interference, optimizing antenna placement, and fine-tuning RF parameters.
• Oversee the installation, integration, and commissioning of DAS systems.
• Ensure proper configuration of equipment and systems, including network elements, controllers, and access points.
• Coordinate with project teams and third-party contractors to ensure timely and accurate installation and deployment.
• Provide ongoing maintenance and support for DAS systems, ensuring continuous, optimal operation.
• Conduct periodic health checks, preventative maintenance, and troubleshooting of DAS networks.
• Maintain accurate records of design plans, site surveys, testing results, and system configurations.
• Create as-built drawings, system documentation, and operation manuals for clients and internal teams.
• Provide detailed reports on system performance, issues, and solutions.
• Work closely with other engineers, project managers, and vendors to ensure smooth project execution.
• Liaise with equipment manufacturers and third-party contractors to ensure compatibility and performance standards are met.
• Ensure compliance with local regulations, industry standards, and safety guidelines.
• Stay updated on the latest DAS technologies, RF engineering advancements, and industry trends.
• Participate in training and professional development opportunities to enhance technical skills.

Skills

RF fundamentals

RF testing

DAS design

Site surveys

Troubleshooting

Communication skills

Read drawings

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in EE/Telecom

Tools

iBwave

Atoll

Spectrum analyzers

Power meters

Job description

The DAS RF Engineer will be responsible for designing, deploying, optimizing, and maintaining Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) to ensure reliable coverage, performance, and signal strength in a variety of environments. This role requires a deep understanding of RF principles, DAS architecture, and system components, including RF cabling, antennas, repeaters, and signal distribution systems. The DAS RF Engineer will work closely with project teams, clients, and vendors to ensure the DAS network meets both technical and performance requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• 1. DAS Design and Planning
  • Design and develop DAS solutions tailored to customer needs, ensuring reliable coverage and efficient use of RF spectrum.
  • Conduct site surveys to evaluate the environment and determine the optimal DAS configuration.
  • Design RF propagation models and coverage maps to optimize signal distribution.
  • Collaborate with clients to determine requirements and specifications for DAS installations.
• 2. RF Testing and Optimization
  • Perform RF testing to assess system performance, signal strength, and quality.
  • Optimize DAS networks by troubleshooting interference, optimizing antenna placement, and fine-tuning RF parameters.
  • Conduct drive tests, in-building testing, and walk tests to validate coverage and performance.
  • Use RF test equipment (spectrum analyzers, signal analyzers, power meters) for accurate measurement and analysis.
• 3. Implementation and Commissioning
  • Oversee the installation, integration, and commissioning of DAS systems.
  • Ensure proper configuration of equipment and systems, including network elements, controllers, and access points.
  • Coordinate with project teams and third-party contractors to ensure timely and accurate installation and deployment.
• 4. Maintenance and Support
  • Provide ongoing maintenance and support for DAS systems, ensuring continuous, optimal operation.
  • Conduct periodic health checks, preventative maintenance, and troubleshooting of DAS networks.
  • Assist in resolving service interruptions, system errors, and performance issues.
• 5. Documentation and Reporting
  • Maintain accurate records of design plans, site surveys, testing results, and system configurations.
  • Create as-built drawings, system documentation, and operation manuals for clients and internal teams.
  • Provide detailed reports on system performance, issues, and solutions.
• 6. Collaboration and Vendor Management
  • Work closely with other engineers, project managers, and vendors to ensure smooth project execution.
  • Liaise with equipment manufacturers and third-party contractors to ensure compatibility and performance standards are met.
  • Ensure compliance with local regulations, industry standards, and safety guidelines.
• 7. Continuous Learning and Development
  • Stay updated on the latest DAS technologies, RF engineering advancements, and industry trends.
  • Participate in training and professional development opportunities to enhance technical skills.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field.
• Minimum 3-5 years of experience in RF engineering, with a focus on DAS design, installation, and optimization.
• Experience with DAS planning tools, RF measurement tools, and network optimization software.
• Familiarity with DAS components such as antennas, repeaters, cabling, and RF distribution systems.

Skills

• Strong knowledge of RF principles and signal propagation.
• Proficient in RF testing, troubleshooting, and optimization.
• Experience with DAS design and planning software (e.g., iBwave, Atoll, or similar).
• Ability to read and interpret RF propagation models, as-built drawings, and schematics.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot complex systems.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.

Certifications (preferred but not required)

• Certifications such as RCDD (Registered Communications Distribution Designer) or CWNA (Certified Wireless Network Administrator) are a plus.
• iBwave Certification a Plus

Physical Requirements

• Ability to travel to various sites for surveys, installations, and troubleshooting.
• Ability to lift and move equipment (up to 50 pounds) as necessary.
• Must be able to work in various environments, including rooftops, construction sites, and confined spaces.
• 70% of work in Ohio and Kentucky, 30% outside market travel as needed
• Fast-paced environment with potential for long hours during project deadlines.