Cellular Field Test Engineer

Description

This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the successful candidate is expected to report to the GM Global Technical Center in Warren, MI three times per week, at minimum [or other frequency dictated by the business if more than 3 days].

The Role

The Cellular Field Test Engineer is responsible for planning, executing, and analyzing on-road and lab-based cellular field tests across global markets to ensure GM connectivity platforms meet performance, reliability, and regulatory expectations. This role is the front line for identifying network, device, and service issues before launch, partnering closely with carriers, modem and TCU suppliers, and internal engineering teams to drive resolution.

• Plan and execute cellular field test campaigns for new vehicle programs, modem/TCU releases, and network changes (e.g., new bands, new carriers, 4G/5G rollouts).
• Define test routes and scenarios (urban, suburban, highway, border areas, roaming corridors, coverage edges, tunnels, high-load locations).
• Execute drive testing and stationary testing to evaluate:
  • Registration/attach performance and stability
  • Voice/VoLTE/VoNR call performance and handovers
  • Data throughput, latency, and packet loss
  • Mobility events: idle/connected mode handovers, inter-RAT transitions, roaming
  • SMS, emergency services (e.g., eCall where applicable), OTA update readiness
• Coordinate logistics with external test vendors and local resources where used (vehicles, SIMs, routes, permits, equipment).
• In this role you are expected to perform in vehicle testing up to 40% and occasionally 5 days a week at office in addition to some late hours and weekends as needed.

• Measure and track key Cellular KPIs (RSRP/RSRQ/SINR, BLER, attach success, call drop rate, throughput, paging success, TAU/RAU, etc.) against GM targets.
• Validate service behavior under real-world conditions, including congestion, weak signal, and cross-border roaming scenarios.
• Verify correct behavior for multi-carrier / multi-profile configurations and SIM provisioning workflows.

• Configure and operate field test tools (e.g., modem logs, drive-test tools, RF scanners, application probes).
• Capture detailed device and network logs for each test (Qualcomm logs, modem traces, QXDM/QCAT-style tools, packet captures, vehicle bus traces).
• Analyze logs to isolate issues to network vs. device vs. configuration vs. application.
• Reproduce issues in controlled environments when possible and create clear, data-driven defect reports.
• Summarize test results into structured reports and dashboards for program reviews and launch readiness gates.

• Contribute to development and refinement of standard cellular field test procedures, route libraries, and KPI templates.
• Help define and implement automation and scripting (e.g., route replay, KPI extraction from logs, automatic report generation).
• Support continuous improvement of field test methods to increase coverage, speed, and repeatability.

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Computer Engineering, Telecommunications, or related technical field; or equivalent practical experience.
• 2+ years experience in cellular testing, RF/network engineering, modem/TCU validation, or similar role.
• Strong understanding of cellular technologies (LTE, LTE-A, 5G NR) and 3GPP concepts (e.g., bands, carriers, PLMN, QoS, mobility, roaming).
• Hands-on experience with at least one class of field test / logging tools (modem trace tools, drive-test tools, RF scanners, log parsers).
• Ability to interpret logs and KPIs to identify patterns and narrow down issues.
• Solid understanding of IP networking basics (DNS, TCP/UDP, APN, VPN, firewalls) as applied to vehicle connectivity.

• Experience with automotive connectivity systems (TCUs, CHM/OnStar or equivalent, vehicle bus interfaces such as CAN/Ethernet).
• Familiarity with carrier certification and PTCRB/GCF workflows and expectations.
• Prior experience working directly with wireless carriers or modem/silicon vendors on issue resolution.
• Scripting skills (e.g., Python) for log parsing, KPI extraction, automation of reports.
• Experience with eCall/emergency call testing in Europe and other regulated markets.
• Understanding security aspects of cellular connectivity (SIM/eSIM, TLS, certificates, secure APNs).
• Self-driven and comfortable working independently in the field with limited supervision.
• Strong organizational skills to manage routes, vehicles, SIMs, and equipment across multiple regions and programs.
• Proven ability to prioritize and communicate under tight program timelines.

• The expected base compensation for this role is: $83,800 - $105,550. Actual base compensation within the identified range will vary based on factors relevant to the position.
• Bonus Potential: An incentive pay program offers payouts based on company performance, job level, and individual performance.
• Benefits: GM offers a variety of health and wellbeing benefit programs. Benefit options include medical, dental, vision, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Accounts, retirement savings plan, sickness and accident benefits, life insurance, paid vacation & holidays, tuition assistance programs, employee assistance program, GM vehicle discounts and more.