Wireless System Validation Engineer

SGS Consulting; Sacramento (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

SGS Consulting seeks a Mid level System Validation Engineer to lead test strategy and execution for cellular modem validation across 5G, LTE-A, and legacy networks. You will analyze protocol stacks, benchmark RF performance, and develop scalable Python automation for lab and regression testing.

Strong collaboration with firmware, hardware, and system teams is essential. The role emphasizes hands-on RF testing, lab management, and deep diagnostics, with a focus on reliability and throughput

Qualifications

• Experience defining and executing test plans for cellular modem validation across 5G NR FR1/FR2, LTE-A, UMTS.
• Experience analyzing protocol stacks (L1, MAC, RLC, RRC, NAS) to root-cause failures.
• Hands-on RF testing with lab equipment (SAA, VNA, power meters).
• Proficient in Python for automation and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Test Strategy & Execution: Define, develop, and execute comprehensive test plans for cellular modem validation across various radio access technologies (5G NR FR1/FR2, LTE-A, UMTS).
• Protocol Stack Analysis: Perform deep-dive log analysis of the cellular protocol stack (L1, MAC, RLC, RRC, and NAS layers) to identify and root-cause signaling failures, handovers, and throughput drops.
• System Performance Benchmarking: Characterize KPIs such as RSRP, SINR, BLER, and Peak Throughput under varying network conditions.
• Test Automation: Design and maintain scalable automation frameworks using Python to increase test coverage and efficiency in lab and regression environments.
• Failure Analysis & Debugging: Collaborate with Firmware, Hardware, and System teams to debug complex system-level issues.
• Lab Management: Operate and configure high-end cellular network emulators and RF test equipment for both signaling and non-signaling test modes.

Skills

Test strategy

Test execution

RF testing

Debugging

Lab setup

Python scripting

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s in Electrical Engineering or Telecommunications

Tools

Keysight UXM

Rohde & Schwarz CMW500/CMX500

Anritsu MT8000A

QXDM/QCAT

Python (PyTest)

Git

RF Spectrum Analyzers

Job description

Job Responsibilities

• Test Strategy & Execution: Define, develop, and execute comprehensive test plans for cellular modem validation across various radio access technologies (5G NR FR1/FR2, LTE-A, UMTS).
• Protocol Stack Analysis: Perform deep-dive log analysis of the cellular protocol stack (L1, MAC, RLC, RRC, and NAS layers) to identify and root-cause signaling failures, handovers, and throughput drops.
• System Performance Benchmarking: Characterize key performance indicators (KPIs) such as RSRP, SINR, BLER, and Peak Throughput under varying network conditions (fading, interference, and mobility).
• Test Automation: Design and maintain scalable automation frameworks using Python to increase test coverage and efficiency in lab and regression environments.
• Failure Analysis & Debugging: Collaborate with Firmware, Hardware, and System teams to debug complex system-level issues.
• Lab Management: Operate and configure high-end cellular network emulators and RF test equipment for both signaling and non-signaling test modes.

Skills

CategoryCommon ToolsNetwork EmulatorsKeysight (UXM), Rohde & Schwarz (CMW500/CMX500), Anritsu (MT8000A)DiagnosticsQualcomm QXDM/QCATAutomation & DataPython (PyTest), GitRF AnalysisKeysight 89600 VSA, Tektronix Spectrum AnalyzersEducation/Experience:

Education/Experience

Mid level System Validation Engineer with min 5 years of experienceEducation: B.S. or M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field.Cellular Expertise: Deep understanding of 5G NR (Standalone and Non-Standalone) and LTE-A features like Carrier Aggregation (CA), MIMO, Beamforming, and VoLTE/VoWiFi.Protocol Knowledge: In-depth familiarity with 3GPP protocols and the mobile device-to-network registration and call-flow processes.Hands-on RF Testing: Proficiency with RF lab equipment, including Spectrum Analyzers, Signal Generators, Power Meters, and Vector Network Analyzers (VNA).Programming: Strong proficiency in Python for test script development and data analysis.Log Analysis: Experience using diagnostic tools such as QXDM, QCAT, Wireshark, or similar modem logging software.Background in field testing, drive testing, or Inter-Operability Testing (IOT) with infrastructure vendors (Ericsson, Nokia, Samsung). Knowledge of RF front-end components (PA, LNA, Switches, Filters) and how they impact system-level cellular performance.