RF Field Engineer

AFL; Charlotte (NC); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

AFL in Charlotte, North Carolina is seeking an RF Field Engineer to report to the Director of Engineering. This role involves system testing, integration, and troubleshooting of wireless systems. The ideal candidate will support both commercial and public safety solutions while experiencing significant travel (up to 90%).

The position requires strong analytical skills and a 4-year degree in engineering or science plus telecom experience. The candidate must be proficient with RF testing equipment and possess excellent customer service skills.

Qualifications

• 4-year BS (engineering or science) plus 1-3 years Telecom experience or 3-5 years minimum Telecom experience with associate’s degree.
• Proficient with general computer skills including networking configurations.
• Familiar with US wireless Operator testing and closeout package requirements.

Responsibilities

• Configure new and upgrade existing Small Cell and DAS networks.
• Provide guidance and training for the Sales and Operations teams.
• Conduct field testing and manage teams as needed.

Skills

Analytical Thinking

Conflict Management

Customer Service

Critical Thinking

Communication Skills

Problem Solving

Education

4-year BS in Engineering or Science

Telecom experience

Tools

IBWAVE

Microsoft Office

RF/Optical/Ethernet testing equipment

Job description

Job Summary

The RF Field Engineer reports to the Director of Engineering. Responsible for wireless operator system testing, integration, and troubleshooting. This position supports technical activities for the ongoing maintenance and monitoring of wireless systems. Will work with Sales and Engineering Management to develop commercial and public safety solutions that meet client requirements. Additional duties could involve development of bill of materials, work scopes and proposals that correspond to customer requests. Attends training classes for OEM products to learn RF principles to become very knowledgeable in all current DAS/Small Cell technologies. Travel up to 90%.

Responsibilities

• Configure new, and upgrade existing, Small Cell and DAS networks
• Provide guidance and training for the Sales and Operations teams
• Work with internal department managers as needed to meet company objectives
• Work with Deployment and Construction counterparts to hit project timelines and goals
• Assist Director of Engineering in development of training programs
• Train Associate Engineers as needed to educate them on industry standards, applications, technologies and processes
• Perform radio engineering evaluation for system planning and site acquisition
• Use RF propagation and planning tools (IBWAVE is primary)
• As needed, conduct and oversee field testing or managing of teams
• Evaluate coverage problems and new service area requirements for coverage cells
• Create CW test plans and execute testing and reporting
• Create Benchmark/Post Installation test plans and execute collection and reporting including review of data collected to identify anomalies
• At times, identify causes of RF interference and troubleshooting interference problems with various customers
• Organize and conduct meetings as necessary to meet departmental objectives
• Assist in the management of inventory and resource assignments
• Weekly administrative activities such as time sheets and expense reports
• Coordination and booking of all travel and mobilization arrangements to meet project timelines

Personal Qualities

• Analytical Thinking – Exceptional ability to analyze data and utilize it to make sound decision
• Conflict Management and Resolution Skills – Build consensus, anticipate and solve problems
• Results focused – Ability to organize and manage multiple, and at time competing priorities
• Communication Skills – Demonstrate communication skills necessary to interpret policies in situations requiring persuasion and prepare and present presentations
• Relationship building skills – ability to work within a dynamic team setting and provide role model leadership to AFL workforce

Qualifications

• Highly organized and able to manage multiple projects and tasks
• Excellent Customer service skills
• Sense of urgency and thinks 3 steps ahead
• Think critically and problem solve
• 4-year BS (engineering or science) plus 1-3 years Telecom experience or 3-5 years minimum Telecom experience with associate’s degree or related College courses
• Proficient with general computer skills including networking configurations, Microsoft Office, and IBWAVE (current or previous iBwave certification a plus but not required)
• Handle confidential/ sensitive information with discretion
• Good judgment
• Familiar with US wireless Operator testing and closeout package requirements
• Understand RF principles
• Familiarity with various RF/Optical/Ethernet testing equipment and diagnostics
• Military experience is a plus
• Understanding of Wi‑Fi networks deployment, and troubleshooting a plus

Working Conditions

• Use of standard office equipment
• Good vision and hearing
• Finger and wrist dexterity
• Medium physical effort (usually lifting/moving 50+ pounds traveling with equipment cases)
• Walking up and down stairs General hours of Monday through Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm. But ability to provide support during and outside regular business hours is required.
• Work indoor/outdoor with variable conditions
• National travel required. Position is expected to have weekly travel either driving or flying depending on location. When not traveling, employee can work from home office or closest regional AFL office.
• Must be able to work in the United States.