(VMS) Electronics Test Engineer
Job#: 3016662
Job Description:
? Principal Electronics Test Engineer (RF & Digital Hardware)
Onsite – Linthicum, MD
1st Shift | 9/80 Schedule
Active or Eligible for DoD Secret Clearance (Preferred)
Contract Opportunity via Apex Systems
Why This Role?
Apex Systems is seeking a Principal Electronics Test Engineer to support advanced RF and digital microelectronic hardware in a high-volume surface-mount manufacturing environment. This opportunity is ideal for engineers who thrive in hands-on, fast-paced production settings and enjoy owning the performance, quality, and delivery of complex electronic products.
You’ll play a critical role in test engineering, yield optimization, failure analysis, and cross-functional collaboration , supporting mission-critical hardware from initial test through delivery.
Work Environment
- 100% Onsite (no remote options)
- 1st Shift | 9/80 schedule
- No travel required
- Manufacturing and production test environment
- High visibility role interfacing with engineering, manufacturing, and program teams
What You’ll Do
As a Principal Electronics Test Engineer, you’ll take ownership of test performance and delivery across Surface Mount Technology (SMT) manufacturing cells , with responsibilities that include:
- Supporting development, integration, and testing of advanced RF and digital hardware
- Troubleshooting and debugging Circuit Card Assemblies (CCAs) across digital, analog, RF, and power circuits
- Performing hands-on testing, fault isolation, and root cause analysis
- Monitoring and improving First Time Through Test Yield (FTTTY)
- Analyzing test data to identify yield detractors and early failure trends
- Developing and implementing improved test methods, procedures, and equipment changes
- Collaborating with design engineering to implement hardware and testability improvements
- Supporting and mentoring manufacturing and test technicians
- Reporting yield performance, issues, and corrective actions during program meetings
- Driving corrective action plans to maintain aggressive delivery and yield targets
- Serving as a technical point of contact across manufacturing, design, quality, and program teams
Basic Qualifications – Principal Level
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Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related STEM field with applicable experience
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(Advanced degree preferred)
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Strong ability to read and interpret:
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Schematics
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Specifications
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Block diagrams
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Parts lists
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Experience supporting RF and digital electronic hardware
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Solid understanding of:
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RF theory and concepts
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Digital circuit design
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Hands-on experience with RF and digital test equipment, such as:
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Digital multimeters (DMMs)
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Power supplies
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Oscilloscopes
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Power meters
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Spectrum analyzers
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Signal generators
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Self-directed, organized, and able to work with minimal supervision
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Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and cross-team communication skills
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Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools
? Preferred Qualifications
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Active DoD Secret clearance
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Advanced degree in Electrical Engineering or related discipline
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Experience with:
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FPGAs and JTAG debugging
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LabWindows/CVI
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C / C++ programming
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NI TestStand
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Familiarity with:
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Digital, analog, and RF test environments
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High-speed digital and RF systems
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Differential interfaces (e.g., LVDS)
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PXI/PXIe and VME bus architectures
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Strong hands-on experience troubleshooting complex electrical hardware in manufacturing or production test environments
EEO Employer
Apex Systems is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, genetic information, registered domestic partner status, marital status, disability, status as a crime victim, protected veteran status, political affiliation, union membership, or any other characteristic protected by law. Apex will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law. If you have visited our website in search of information on employment opportunities or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation in using our website for a search or application, please contact our Employee Services Department at or .
Apex Systems is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRated’s Best of Staffing in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work in the United Kingdom and Mexico. Apex uses a virtual recruiter as part of the application process. Click for more details.
Apex Benefits Overview:Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Apex also offers a HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Apex hosts an on-demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6+ months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach. You can access a full list of our benefits, programs, support teams and resources within our ‘Welcome Packet’ as well, which an Apex team member can provide.