Smart Meter Test & Validation Engineer (Cellular & RF Focus)

Job Description

Job DescriptionJob Title : Smart Meter Test & Validation Engineer (Cellular & RF Focus)
JobLocation: Liberty lake, Washington
Job Duration: 3 Months, Contract to Hire

Job Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and execute test strategies, plans, and procedures for smart metering solutions.
• Perform protocol testing for metering standards such as DLMS/COSEM, ANSI C12.19, and related protocols.
• Conduct RF communication testing (mesh, cellular, proprietary protocols), focusing on stability, reliability, and performance KPI monitoring.
• Develop and maintain automated test frameworks using Python and/or C#.
• Perform root cause analysis and troubleshoot issues across meter, RF network, and system layers.
• Define, track, and report performance KPIs for RF and protocol layers in both lab and field environments.
• Collaborate with development teams to provide feedback on RF design, performance improvements, and usability.
• Use Azure DevOps for test case management, tracking, and reporting.
• Maintain test documentation, manage testbeds, and drive continuous test process improvements.
• Focus on cellular network testing (LTE, NB-IoT, 4G/5G), including network registration, handover, throughput, and latency KPIs.
• Understand requirements, generate test scenarios, and validate them against specifications.
• Report roadblocks, design issues, and daily activity status to senior management.
• Work independently and guide entry-level team members.

Qualifications:

• Strong knowledge of metering protocols: DLMS/COSEM, ANSI C12.19.
• Hands-on experience in cellular communication technologies (LTE, NB-IoT, 4G/5G) and RF performance KPI analysis.
• Proven experience in smart meter testing, validation, and certification processes.
• Strong Python programming skills with solid understanding of OOP concepts.
• Experience in Python test frameworks, preferably Robot Framework or PyTest.
• Solid background in test automation with Python or C#.
• Experience working with Linux (mandatory).
• Hands-on experience with embedded devices for testing and validation.
• Proficiency with cellular/network tools: TEMS, QXDM, NetHawk Analyzer, Wireshark, Spectrum Analyzer, Signal Generator, etc.
• Experience with Azure DevOps for test management, CI/CD pipelines, and reporting.
• Strong debugging and problem-solving skills, with the ability to replicate and resolve field issues in lab environments.
• Knowledge of system integration testing for IoT/Smart Grid devices.
• Ability to work independently and support junior team members.