Optical and RF Test Engineer

About AscendionAscendion is an AI-native software engineering disruptor helping businesses innovate faster, smarter, and with greater impact. We partner with enterprise clients across North America, the UK, Europe, and APAC to solve complex challenges in data, experience design, software product engineering, and workforce transformation. Powered by expert engineers, thousands of AI agents, and our Engineering to the Power of AI (EngineeringAI) method, we deliver measurable outcomes that build trust, unlock value, and accelerate growth.Learn more at  https://ascendion.com/.Engineering to the Power of AI™, AAVA™, EngineeringAI, Engineering to Elevate Life™, Enterprise PlatformsAI, Data & InsightsAI, ExperienceAI, GCCAI, OperationsAI, Platform EngineeringAI, ProductAI, and Quality EngineeringAIare trademarks or service marks of Ascendion®. AAVA™ is pending registration. Unauthorized use is strictly prohibited.Ascendion | Engineering to elevate lifeWe have a culture built on opportunity, inclusion, and a spirit of partnership. Come, change the world with us:Build the coolest tech for the world’s leading brandsSolve complex problems - and learn new skillsExperience the power of transforming digital engineering for Fortune 500 clientsMaster your craft with leading training programs and hands-on experienceExperience a community of change makers!Join a culture of high-performing innovators with endless ideas and a passion for tech. Our culture is the fabric of our company, and it is what makes us unique and diverse. The way we share ideas, learning, experiences, successes, and joy allows everyone to be their best at Ascendion.About the Role:Optical & RF Test EngineerWe are seeking a highly skilled Optical & RF Test Engineer to support advanced aerospace, defense, and next-generation hardware programs within a hands-on engineering lab environment. This role focuses on RF and optical system validation, oscilloscope-based debugging, automated test development, hardware characterization, and environmental reliability testing for mission-critical technologies.The ideal candidate will bring strong experience working with complex electronic systems, RF/optical instrumentation, Linux-based lab environments, and Python-driven automation frameworks. This position requires a detail-oriented engineer capable of troubleshooting high-performance hardware systems and supporting validation efforts across multiple engineering disciplines.Key ResponsibilitiesPerform RF, optical, and hardware testing for advanced electronic systemsUse oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, VNAs, signal generators, power meters, and related lab equipment for testing and troubleshootingDevelop and maintain automated test scripts and frameworks using Python and other scripting languagesSupport signal analysis, waveform testing, debugging, and hardware validation activitiesConduct system integration, root cause analysis, and failure investigationsPerform environmental and reliability testing including thermal, vibration, and chamber testingSupport Linux-based lab environments and automated testing setupsWork closely with hardware, firmware, systems, and quality engineering teamsCreate test reports, validation documentation, and engineering findingsRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Telecommunications, or related field5+ years of experience in RF testing, electronics validation, hardware testing, or optical systemsStrong hands-on experience with RF and lab test equipment:OscilloscopesSpectrum AnalyzersVector Network Analyzers (VNA)Signal GeneratorsPower MetersSpectrometersStrong Python scripting/programming experience requiredExperience with automation, debugging, and Linux-based test environmentsStrong troubleshooting skills with analog, digital, embedded, RF, or optical hardwareAbility to read schematics and technical documentationActive Secret Clearance preferred or ability to obtain one requiredExperience with C++, Bash, Shell scripting, MATLAB, or C#Preferred SkillsAerospace, avionics, defense, or communication systems experienceExperience with automated validation frameworks and reliability testing.Clearance Requirement:Active Secret Clearance preferred. Candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance. Salary Range: The salary for this position is between $135,000 - $140,000 annually.  Factors which may affect pay within this range may include geography/market, skills, education, experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.Benefits: The Company offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements: [medical insurance] [dental insurance] [vision insurance] [401(k) retirement plan] [long-term disability insurance] [short-term disability insurance] [personal days accrued each calendar year. The Paid time off benefits meet the paid sick and safe time laws that pertains to the City/ State] [12-15 days of paid vacation time] [6-8 weeks of paid parental leave after a year of service] [9 paid holidays and 2 floating holidays per calendar year] [Ascendion Learning Management System] [Tuition Reimbursement Program]  Want to change the world? Let us know.Tell us about your experiences, education, and ambitions. Bring your knowledge, unique viewpoint, and creativity to the table. Let’s talk!