RF Technician
Also posted as Antenna Systems Technician; Microwave Technician; Radio Systems Technician
An RF technician performs RF measurement and spectrum analysis, antenna, feedline and waveguide maintenance, and interference and signal-loss troubleshooting to keep naval combat, sensor, communications, and mission systems safe, reliable, compliant, and ready for operation. Many people start with a two-year associate degree or a technical certificate rather than a four-year degree.
Below: what it pays, what you'd do, the skills you need, and how to become one.
The role profile
Everything you need to know about this role, the same details employers use to post openings and colleges use to build training.
How much does it pay?
Explore the core responsibilities of this role, from daily operations and equipment handling to safety, quality, and performance requirements.
Measure RF performance
Run RF measurements and spectrum analysis to verify system performance.
Maintain antenna systems
Service antennas, feedlines, and waveguide that carry the signal.
Troubleshoot interference
Chase interference and signal-loss problems back to the source.
Diagnose electronic systems
Isolate electronic faults across RF and processing equipment.
What skills do you need?
Three core skills sit at the heart of this role. You can learn all of them through short, hands-on training.
RF Measurement
Running spectrum analysis and RF measurements on live systems.
Antenna & Feedline Systems
Maintaining antennas, feedlines, and waveguide runs.
Interference Troubleshooting
Tracking interference and signal loss back to the source.
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