Smart Meter Test & Validation Engineer (Cellular & RF Focus)
Jobs via Dice • Liberty Lake, Washington, United States
Role & seniority: Senior/Experienced Test Engineer focused on smart metering validation, testing, and automation
Stack/tools: DLMS/COSEM, ANSI C12.19; LTE/NB-IoT/4G/5G cellular; RF testing (TEMS, QXDM, NetHawk, Wireshark, Spectrum Analyzer); Python (OOP), Python test frameworks (Robot Framework, PyTest); C#; Linux; embedded devices; Azure DevOps; CI/CD; testbeds and documentation
Top 3 responsibilities
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Design, develop, and execute test strategies, plans, and procedures for smart metering solutions
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Conduct protocol and RF testing, perform root cause analysis, and troubleshoot across meters, RF networks, and system layers
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Develop/maintain automated test frameworks, manage test cases, track KPIs, and drive continuous test process improvements
Must-have skills
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Expertise in metering protocols (DLMS/COSEM, ANSI C12.19)
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Hands-on cellular/RF testing experience and KPI analysis
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Smart meter testing, validation, and certification experience
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Proficiency in Python (OO) and test frameworks (Robot Framework, PyTest); C# experience
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Linux proficiency; embedded device testing; RF/network tools (TEMS, QXDM, NetHawk, Wireshark, Spectrum Analyzer)
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Azure DevOps for test management, CI/CD, and reporting; strong debugging/problem-solving
Nice-to-haves
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Mentoring junior team members; system integration testing for IoT/Smart Grid; experience with field vs. lab validation
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Location & work type: Location not specified; Work type not specified
Full Description
Dice is the leading career destination for tech experts at every stage of their careers. Our client, Datum Software, Inc., is seeking the following. Apply via Dice today!
Job Description: Key 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 including mesh, cellular (LTE, NB-IoT, 4G/5G), and proprietary protocols with a focus on stability, reliability, and KPI monitoring. Develop and maintain automated test frameworks using Python and/or C#. Perform root cause analysis and troubleshoot issues across meters, RF networks, 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. Utilize Azure DevOps for test case management, tracking, and reporting. Maintain test documentation, manage testbeds, and drive continuous improvement in test processes. Validate test scenarios against specifications and report roadblocks, design issues, and daily status to senior management. Work independently and mentor junior team members as needed.
Required Skills & Experience
Strong knowledge of metering protocols: DLMS/COSEM, ANSI C12.19. Hands-on experience with cellular communication technologies (LTE, NB-IoT, 4G/5G) and RF KPI analysis. Proven experience in smart meter testing, validation, and certification processes. Proficient in Python programming with solid understanding of OOP concepts. Experience with Python test frameworks such as Robot Framework or PyTest. Strong background in test automation using Python or C#. Experience working with Linux (mandatory). Hands-on experience testing and validating embedded devices. Proficiency with cellular/network tools including TEMS, QXDM, NetHawk Analyzer, Wireshark, Spectrum Analyzer, Signal Generator, etc. Familiarity with Azure DevOps for test management, CI/CD pipelines, and reporting. Strong debugging and problem-solving skills, capable of replicating and resolving field issues in lab environments. Knowledge of system integration testing for IoT/Smart Grid devices. Ability to work independently and support junior team members.
