RF Collection Specialist
About this role
AeroVironment is hiring a RF Collection Specialist, full-time, on-site in San Diego, CA, in the DEFENSE sector.
Worker Type
Regular
Job Description
The Titan group is seeking a RF Collections Specialist to support RF data collection efforts for our AI/ML, Quality Assurance, Mechanical Engineering, and Field Test teams. This role has evolved from an initial data-driving position into a function that enables high-quality data collection, annotation, and operational support.
The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, adaptable, and comfortable working hands-on with RF data collection equipment in real-world environments. While this role collaborates closely with technical teams, it is not an engineering position and does not require designing systems or developing production software.
This position is primarily on-site in San Diego, with some remote work possible when approved by the manager.
Primary Responsibilities
Core Data Collection (70%)
· Conduct RF data collection using company-owned vehicles and RF-based equipment in a safe, reliable, and repeatable manner.
· Execute data collection plans provided by the AI/ML team, including operating in specific environments, routes, and conditions
· Configure equipment for collection activities, including basic setup tasks such as loading firmware, configuration files, or scripts by following established procedures.
· Develop hands-on operational expertise with newly acquired drone equipment, including:
· Learning relevant device parameters (e.g., center frequency, bandwidth, power levels, packet rates, or anything relevant to the device)
· Setting up drone for specific collection scenarios based on guidance from AI/ML or field test requirements
· Documenting setup procedures, observations, and best practices for repeatable use
· Support manager-directed efforts to assist with data automation or simulation, such as:
· Running scripted data playback tools
· Assisting with repeatable test setups that help supplement or validate real-world data
· Maintain accurate and detailed logs for each collection run
· Produce written summaries of each collection session, including any equipment issues, data gaps, or unexpected events.
Data Annotation and Documentation (20%)
· Perform detailed annotation and metadata entry associated with collected datasets.
· Ensure annotations are aligned with AI/ML team requirements.
· Maintain organized records and documentation to support downstream data analysis.
Cross-Team Support (Manager-Directed)
· Provide field and operational support to other teams as requested and approved by the manager, including:
· AI/ML (primary customer)
· Quality Assurance
· Mechanical Engineering
· Field Test team; in particular, participate as needed in field tests that may require extended hours, long days outdoors, and detailed observational notetaking.
· Adjust daily priorities as needed based on operational demands and manager guidance.
· Regular research of emerging threats as needed or directed by manager
Clearance Level
No Clearance
The salary range for this role is:
$21 - $32
AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills.
ITAR Requirement:
This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment’s determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment’s business requirements. A “U.S. person” according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.
Benefits: AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits.
We also encourage you to review our company website at http://www.avinc.com to learn more about us.
Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.
About AV:
AV isn’t for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. The best of the best.
We don’t just build defense technology—we redefine what’s possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve.
Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian—but we’re not building history, we’re building what’s next.
If you're ready to build technology that matters—with speed, scale, and purpose—there’s no better place to do it than AV.
ITAR
Description from AeroVironment's official posting. Always confirm details on the company careers page.
About AeroVironment
AeroVironment
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About Larry Sherwood Jr.
Talent Acquisition Leader specializing in mobility, EV, and frontier tech. 1,000+ hires across roles ranging from production technicians to VPs, including 48 hires for the AFEELA U.S. launch at Sony Honda Mobility (98% offer acceptance, $1.5M+ agency savings). SHRM-CP certified. Build recruiting functions from scratch, no agencies.
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