RF Characterization Engineer

About Doodle Labs Doodle Labs builds the connectivity backbone of the autonomous systems revolution - resilient wireless mesh networks that let drones, robots, and unmanned platforms operate reliably in the world's most demanding environments. We sit at the intersection of defense, robotics, and next-generation autonomy, powering the machines that are changing how militaries, first responders, and industries operate in the field. Our core purpose is simple: connect anyone and anything, at any time, in any place. For over 25 years, our team has been at the forefront of mesh networking, partnering with leading defense programs, robotics manufacturers, and system integrators worldwide. The work here doesn't sit in a slide deck - it ends up in the field, in the hands of people for whom failure isn't an option.

About the Role The RF Characterization Engineer is responsible for measuring, characterizing, and building the hardware our RF designers create and will play a key role in standing up our new US-based RF hardware team in Austin, TX. In this role, you will work closely with the RF Design Manager and Senior RF Hardware Engineer to turn new designs into working, validated boards. This role will help shape how we build, test, and validate radio hardware in the US as Doodle Labs continues to scale. This is an opportunity to get hands-on across the full hardware lifecycle, from first build to validated product, within a high-growth company at the forefront of wireless networking and autonomous systems.

What You’ll Do

• Own and drive characterization of the team's designs, including frequency range, RF performance, USB, Ethernet, DC/DC converters, and other subsystems
• Operate RF and lab measurement instruments, including spectrum analyzers, VNAs, signal generators, power meters, and oscilloscopes
• Build prototype hardware so circuits run on real boards, including soldering, rework, and board bring-up
• Write test plans, run bench and over-the-air tests, and document results
• Support PCB design and test jig development, and give direction to PCB layout on design intent
• Source, research, and purchase components and parts under the designers' guidance
• Collaborate cross-functionally with RF designers, our Singapore R&D team, and product engineering on validation and handoff to manufacturing
• Ensure accurate, repeatable test data and documentation for design reviews

What Success Looks Like

• Fast, reliable characterization data that speeds up design decisions
• Successful delivery of prototype builds and board bring-ups on schedule
• Strong cross-functional collaboration and alignment
• Improved test plans, jigs, and lab processes that are repeatable as the team grows
• Establishment of an organized parts sourcing and lab inventory process

Who You Are

• Strong hands-on background with RF measurement instruments and real hardware
• Proven experience characterizing and testing RF circuits below 7 GHz, including RF front ends and power amplifiers
• Familiarity with supporting circuitry such as power conversion, DC/DC converters, USB, and Ethernet, from the measurement and test side
• Comfortable soldering, rework, and building boards by hand
• Working knowledge of schematics and PCB design
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field, or equivalent hands-on experience
• Ability to work cross-functionally with both technical and non-technical teams
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills
• Experience operating in fast-paced or high-growth environments

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in drones, robotics, autonomy, wireless networking, or defense markets
• Hardware or test experience at a Wi-Fi or long-range wireless hardware company
• Experience working with OEMs, embedded systems, or hardware products
• Familiarity with LitePoint or R&S testers, test automation (e.g., Python), and Linux
• Experience with environmental qualification and OTA testing
• Specialized certifications such as IPC J-STD-001 or IPC-A-610

Why Join Doodle Labs

• Work on cutting-edge technology powering the future of autonomous systems
• Collaborate with engineers and innovators building industry-leading connectivity solutions
• Make a meaningful impact in a fast-growing company shaping the next generation of robotics and wireless networking
• Hands-on work across the full hardware lifecycle, alongside senior RF designers

Compensation & Benefits Doodle Labs offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package built for people doing serious work.

• Compensation: Competitive base salary, individual and company performance bonuses.
• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision coverage. Plus One Medical, Teladoc, Talkspace, Health Advocate, Kindbody, and sponsored gym memberships
• Retirement: 401(k) with company contributions (US)
• Professional Development: Access to courses, certifications, and conferences
• Commuter Benefits: Pre-tax commuter savings for transit and parking (US roles)
• Time Off: Paid time off, Federal and Bank holiday's observed, plus a company-wide holiday shutdown from Christmas through New Year's
• Relocation Assistance: Available depending on role eligibility

Travel Expectations This role may require up to 5% travel for field testing or team collaboration.