Senior Technician - CATV Test & Validation

Senior Technician - CATV Test & Validation Duluth GA Posted 1 month ago Summary We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Technician to lead laboratory validation and performance testing of

CATV/HFC

broadband amplifiers and active RF modules. This role is responsible for comprehensive RF characterization, environmental qualification, and cascade performance evaluation to ensure products meet stringent industry standards and system-level requirements. The ideal candidate brings 10+ years of hands-on RF test experience within the CATV, broadband, or telecommunications industry and possesses deep expertise in amplifier characterization, nonlinear distortion analysis, and lab-based validation methodologies. Job Duties RF Performance Testing Conduct Noise Power Ratio (NPR) testing to evaluate amplifier linearity and distortion performance under wideband loading conditions Perform Composite Carrier to Noise (CCN) and related distortion measurements Characterize forward and return path performance across 5 MHz-1.8 GHz (and extended spectrum where applicable) Measure gain, flatness, tilt, and frequency response across operating bandwidth Validate MER, SNR, and overall signal integrity under DOCSIS loading conditions Bench Testing & Characterization Perform full S-parameter measurements (S11, S22, S21, S12) using vector network analyzers (VNA) Conduct output power, compression (P1dB), IP3, and dynamic range testing Evaluate noise figure and return loss performance Perform impedance matching validation and isolation testing Develop and document standardized lab test procedures and acceptance criteria Environmental & Reliability Testing Conduct thermal testing including temperature cycling, heat rise analysis, and performance drift over temperature Perform surge and lightning protection validation per applicable industry standards Evaluate power supply robustness and standby powering performance Conduct long-duration burn-in and reliability testing Cascade & System-Level Testing Perform multi-amplifier cascade testing to evaluate cumulative distortion, gain, tilt, and noise buildup Analyze system-level impact of amplifier nonlinearities across extended cascades Model and validate link budgets and signal propagation through active networks Collaborate with design engineering to optimize performance across realistic plant configurations Documentation & Collaboration Generate detailed test reports including performance data, root cause analysis, and corrective recommendations Partner with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to resolve performance issues Support compliance testing to SCTE, ANSI, and other relevant industry standards Assist in qualification of new components, silicon technologies, and design revisions Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related technical field 10+ years of hands-on RF test and validation experience, preferably within

CATV/HFC

systems Extensive experience with NPR and CCN testing methodologies Strong proficiency with lab equipment including VNA, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, power meters, thermal chambers, and surge test equipment Deep understanding of RF amplifier behavior, nonlinear distortion mechanisms, and cascade effects Experience performing S-parameter analysis and interpreting RF network data Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills Experience testing amplifiers for DOCSIS 3.1/4.0 or extended spectrum applications (preferred) Familiarity with GaN or LDMOS broadband amplifier technologies (preferred) Experience with automated test systems and LabVIEW or similar platforms (preferred) Knowledge of SCTE standards and cable industry compliance requirements (preferred) Key Competencies Strong analytical and measurement discipline Deep understanding of broadband RF systems Methodical lab documentation and reporting Cross-functional collaboration Continuous improvement mindset #HP!