RF Characterization Engineer

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.

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.

• →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

• 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

• 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

• 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

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