Modem Chipset Field Test Engineer
About the role
Location: San Diego, CA (Field-Based / Onsite)
Business Travel: up to 15%
Job Type: Full-Time
Compensation: $25 to $40 per hour
Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k) retirement plan; paid sick leave; life, accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D), and long-term disability (LTD) insurance; and optional voluntary life/AD&D coverage. Benefits are subject to eligibility and applicable plan terms.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a Modem Chipset Field Test Engineer to support 5G/LTE and NTN (Non-Terrestrial Network)/satellite testing in real-world environments. You will perform daily drive/walk testing, diagnostic log collection, issue troubleshooting, and technical reporting while working closely with R&D, QA, carrier, OEM, and chipset teams.
This is not a hybrid or primarily office-based role. Your workday is field-based: assigned test routes, outdoor test locations, mobile devices, and network performance validation.
What You’ll Do
Perform daily drive and walk testing across 5G NR, LTE, WCDMA/UMTS, GSM, and NTN/satellite networks in real-world environments.
Execute RF, mobility, voice, and data performance testing, including throughput, latency, connectivity, call scenarios, and KPI validation.
Validate cellular-to-NTN/satellite mobility and handover scenarios, including LEO/GEO and Direct-to-Device use cases.
Capture, analyze, and troubleshoot diagnostic logs using QXDM, QPST, XCAL/XCAP, Shannon DM, or similar tools.
Investigate VoLTE/VoNR, data connectivity, RF, modem, and network performance issues and provide clear findings to engineering teams.
Develop and execute field test plans covering routes, devices, software builds, SIM/eSIM configurations, KPIs, and network conditions.
Perform packet-level troubleshooting using Wireshark and TCP/IP/UDP analysis when required.
Validate modem/software builds, feature updates, and network enhancements through field testing and regression testing.
Configure and maintain Android test devices, SIM/eSIMs, logging tools, RF equipment, and test environments.
Document defects, test results, logs, and observations in concise technical reports and support cross-functional issue resolution.
What You’ll Bring (Required)
Bachelor’s degree in Telecommunications, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent experience.
Hands-on experience in mobile field testing, wireless testing, or telecom testing.
Strong knowledge of 5G NR and LTE, plus familiarity with WCDMA/UMTS and GSM.
Foundational knowledge of NTN/satellite communications (LEO/GEO, latency, coverage), or demonstrated ability to quickly learn and support NTN testing.
Experience with diagnostic log analysis tools such as QXDM, QPST, XCAL/XCAP, Shannon DM, or similar tools.
Understanding of network protocols, including TCP/IP, UDP, and the OSI model.
Experience with Android device testing and mobile software validation.
Familiarity with VoLTE/VoNR, data testing, and KPI validation.
Ability to analyze test results, troubleshoot technical issues, and clearly document and communicate findings.
Nice to Have
3GPP Release 17+ NTN standards and/or Direct-to-Device satellite connectivity experience.
5G protocol stack knowledge (PHY, MAC, RRC, NAS signaling).
Carrier certification or satellite communications testing experience.
GNSS/GPS, RF propagation, and mobility scenario knowledge.
Automation or scripting experience with ADB, Python, or Shell.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth coexistence testing experience.
Work Environment
Daily work primarily consists of drive and walk testing on assigned routes and at outdoor test locations within the assigned service area.
Daily operation of a company or assigned vehicle within the assigned local service area is essential.
Outdoor work may include remote, limited-connectivity, and variable-weather environments.
Log review, reporting, device configuration, and coordination activities support the primary daily field testing responsibilities.
Up to 15% travel outside the assigned service area may be required for training, deployments, project support, or temporary assignments.
Test cycles may require early mornings, evenings, weekends, extended hours, or schedule changes.
Additional Requirements
Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record, subject to applicable law and company policy.
Ability to safely operate a vehicle, follow all safety procedures and traffic laws, and work outdoors throughout scheduled workdays.
Ability to set up, handle, and transport required mobile devices, RF equipment, and related test hardware.