Radio Frequency Engineers are responsible for managing the optimization, analysis and upgradation of GSM network. Those who possess a degree in Electrical, Electronics or Telecommunication Engineering can get into this post if they have minimum two years of work experience in the field of Telecommunication. Reputed companies like GTL Limited, Ericsson Inc, Nokia Siemens Networks, Tata Communications Limited, Airtel etc. offers this job with a salary ranging from  Rs. 2, 00, 000/- to Rs. 10, 00, 000/- per annum.

Overall responsibilities

Primary responsibility of RF Engineer includes optimizing and analyzing GSM network and improving its performance if necessary. They mainly analyze the network performance using test data and prepare statistical report based on the evaluation. After understanding the report thoroughly, they will take steps to improve network performance indicators like dropped calls, handoff features, blocked calls and origination failures.

They apply propagation, antenna and cellular theory for choosing tower antenna placement. Then they replace the damaged antenna using RF Engineering tools. They are responsible for designing wireless system through GSM. They accomplish this task by going through the procedures like capacity planning, frequency hopping and GSM frequency planning. Another responsibility includes designing and upgrading sites for improving network coverage. As a part of upgrading sites, they will fix the existing holes and correct the orientation of radio signals. They are also responsible for finding problem sites by evaluating network performance indicators, customer complaints and applying test data.

They will optimize the existing network by adjusting network parameters and suggesting solutions for hardware problems. It is their responsibility to create Visual Basic scripts for improving the speed of processing network performance data.

Necessary qualification

Candidates having Bachelor’s degree in Electronics, Electrical or Telecommunication Engineering can apply for this post. The concerned Bachelor’s degree should be completed from a recognized University. Certain companies demand minimum of 60% cut off percentage for the relevant degree. Apart from the educational qualification, candidates should possess minimum two year experience as Telecommunications Systems Analyst or Telecom Engineer.

Requisite skills and abilities

To work as a RF Engineer, one should have immense knowledge in using RF Engineering tools like Asset, TEMS and NEMO. They should also have experience in using tools like TEMS, ACTIX and OptPCS.

RF Engineer should have good communication and problem solving skills. They should have the skill to perform critical analysis. Good statistical skills are also essential for RF Engineers as they have to prepare an accurate Statistical Report.

Remuneration

Those who join GTL Limited as RF Engineer can draw a salary between Rs. 1, 32, 000/- to Rs. 2, 37, 174/- per annum. Ericsson Inc offers a salary between Rs 5, 00,000/- to Rs. 10, 00, 000/- for RF Engineers. But an increase in the salary will depend upon the experience of the employee. Working as a RF Engineer in Nokia Siemens Networks, one can earn a salary range in the range of Rs.2, 00,000 to Rs. 3, 00,000 per annum. Companies like Huawei, Tata Communications Limited, Airtel offer a salary between Rs. 1, 00, 000/- to Rs. 6, 00, 000/- per annum for RF Engineers.