Lead Wireless Engineer

We are seeking an experienced Lead Wireless Engineer to serve as the primary technical resource on large-scale enterprise wireless migration and deployment engagements. This role focuses on planning, executing, and validating Access Point (AP) platform migrations typically involving legacy controller-based systems transitioning to modern cloud-managed or AI-driven wireless platforms across complex, high-density environments such as distribution centers, manufacturing facilities, campuses, and enterprise office spaces. This position requires strong hands-on wireless expertise, attention to detail in documentation, and the ability to lead cross-functional field teams through phased cutovers in operationally sensitive environments. The Lead Wireless Engineer will own the full technical lifecycle from pre-installation survey through post-deployment validation and project closeout. Primary Responsibilities: Planning & Pre-Survey Conduct site walks to assess building layouts, AP mounting locations, IDF/MDF locations, pathways, lift requirements, and access constraints Perform pre-installation RF coverage surveys using industry-standard tools (e.g., Ekahau, Hamina) to establish baseline coverage and identify interference Review and validate existing AP placement plans, floor schematics, cable run lists, and inventory; resolve discrepancies with stakeholders Develop detailed staging, implementation, and testing plans; obtain stakeholder sign-off prior to execution Define phased deployment schedules aligned with maintenance windows and operational constraints Create BOMs, installation guides, and field checklists for technician teams Identify and document risks prior to cutover, including coverage gaps, cabling issues, and compatibility concerns Deployment Coordination & Execution Lead onsite AP staging, including unboxing, labeling, provisioning, and firmware validation Oversee 1:1 AP replacements or new deployments using existing infrastructure where applicable Manage phased cutover strategies, including parallel operation and rollback planning Direct and support field technicians during maintenance windows to ensure timely execution Conduct daily team briefings, track progress, and escalate issues in real time Validate AP provisioning, connectivity, and correct configuration profiles Coordinate access to network cabinets for testing, repairs, and troubleshooting Automation & Scripting Support Develop or support scripts for automated AP provisioning, configuration validation, and bulk operations Utilize platform REST APIs (e.g., Mist, Meraki, Catalyst Center) to streamline deployments Validate automation outputs and document any deviations from deployment plans Validation & Cutover Support Verify wireless coverage meets defined RF SLAs (RSSI, redundancy, channel utilization) Execute rollback procedures if performance thresholds are not met Perform post-installation RF validation surveys using tools like Ekahau Sidekick or equivalent Analyze results for interference, coverage gaps, roaming issues, and SNR deviations Capture installation documentation, including AP photos and system records Documentation & Project Closure Produce pre-installation survey reports with RF heat maps and recommendations Maintain accurate AP inventory records (make, model, serial number, location, port mapping) Deliver final documentation package, including validation surveys and as-built reports Document lessons learned and recommend process improvements Complete final handover and obtain customer sign-off Technical Skills & Knowledge RF Fundamentals & Survey Strong knowledge of 802.11 standards (a/b/g/n/ac/ax, Wi-Fi 6/6E), including MU-MIMO, OFDMA, BSS Coloring, and TWT Understanding of RF propagation concepts: FSPL, Fresnel zones, multipath, reflection, and absorption Experience with channel planning across 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz bands, including DFS and EIRP considerations Ability to identify and mitigate co-channel and adjacent-channel interference Proficiency in pre- and post-deployment survey methodologies (passive, active, predictive) Experience interpreting RF heat maps (RSSI, SNR, PHY rate, roaming performance) Hands-on experience with tools such as Ekahau (Survey Pro, Sidekick) and/or Hamina Key Qualifications Proven experience leading enterprise wireless deployments and migrations Strong hands-on experience with AP installation, configuration, and validation Ability to lead field teams and coordinate across multiple stakeholders Experience working in high-density or operationally sensitive environments Strong documentation and reporting skills Excellent problem-solving and communication abilities