RF Validation Engineer I

Job Title

RF Validation Engineer I

Role Summary

The RF Validation Engineer I validates RF and PHY-MAC implementations for low-power wireless SoCs across Bluetooth Low Energy, 802.15.4 (Zigbee/Thread), 802.11 Wi‑Fi, Wi‑SUN, and proprietary short-range protocols. The role covers pre‑silicon test, FPGA emulation, silicon bring‑up, lab measurements, and cross‑functional support to ensure product performance and manufacturability.

Experience Level

Entry-level - the role expects approximately 1+ year of industry experience working on mixed-signal SoCs or RF signal chains.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include end-to-end validation activities from IP development to silicon:

• Develop and validate PHY configurations for Zigbee, BLE, Wi‑SUN, ZWave, MBus, and proprietary PHYs.
• Perform pre‑silicon testing using block/chip-level testbenches and FPGA emulation.
• Bring up and validate new RF IP on silicon and provide actionable feedback to cross-functional teams.
• Execute RF lab measurements (RX sensitivity, frequency/baudrate/deviation tolerance, blocking, TX output power, etc.).
• Analyze measurement data, present findings, and train stakeholders on RF performance and limitations.
• Collaborate with IC Design, Applications, Firmware, Test, Systems, and Module teams to support product delivery.
• Advise software teams on RF-related SW implementations and help build scalable test infrastructure and tools.

Requirements

Must-have technical skills and attributes:

• Experience with RF signal chains (LNAs, mixers, PAs, A/D and D/A converters).
• Familiarity with digital modulation formats (MSK/FSK, OQPSK, OOK/ASK, etc.).
• Proficiency making measurements with RF lab instruments (signal generator, spectrum analyzer, network analyzer, oscilloscope, DMM, SMU).
• Experience using Python or other high-level languages for modeling and evaluating communication systems and algorithms.
• Strong understanding of analog signal fundamentals and basic circuit components/specifications.
• Knowledge of wireless standards such as Bluetooth Low Energy, 802.15.4, and 802.11 Wi‑Fi.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and ability to work independently to generate high output.

Nice-to-have:

• Basic DSP knowledge (resampling, FIR filtering).
• Experience with revision control and configuration management systems.

Education Requirements

BSEE or MSEE in Electrical Engineering is specified. The posting also specifies approximately 1 year of industry experience in mixed-signal SoCs with exposure to the RF signal chain.

About the Company

Company: Silicon Labs

Headquarters: Austin, Texas, USA

Silicon Labs is a leading innovator in low-power wireless connectivity, creating embedded technology that connects devices to improve lives. With a focus on advanced edge connectivity applications, the company provides device makers with cutting-edge solutions and support. Headquartered in Austin, Texas, Silicon Labs operates in over 16 countries, serving markets such as smart home, industrial IoT, and smart cities.