FWA Drive Tester

To qualify for the FWA Drive Tester position at TeleWorld Solutions, candidates typically need 2–4+ years of experience in drive testing or RF data collection. Familiarity with fixed wireless access networks, particularly with LTE and 5G NR technologies, is essential. Experience with drive test tools such as TEMS, Nemo, and XCAL is preferred, along with an understanding of key wireless performance metrics like RSRP and SINR. A valid driver’s license is required, and applicants should be prepared to travel up to 75–100% of the time.

A day in the life of an FWA Drive Tester at TeleWorld Solutions involves executing drive tests in targeted areas to evaluate and improve wireless service quality. You’ll be working outdoors, collecting RF data, assessing signal strength, and identifying any connectivity issues. Following test scripts provided by the RF planning team, you will prepare for tests, configure equipment, and collaborate with network engineers to resolve challenges. Additionally, you’ll analyze the collected data and prepare reports that inform future optimization efforts.

To prepare for the FWA Drive Tester role at TeleWorld Solutions, gain experience with wireless technologies, particularly in LTE and 5G environments. Familiarize yourself with drive testing tools like TEMS, XCAL, and Nemo, and understand key performance indicators related to cellular networks. Strengthening your analytical skills will help with data interpretation and reporting. Ensure you’re comfortable with travel and the physical demands of the position, as hands-on testing will often involve outdoor environments.

At TeleWorld Solutions, an FWA Drive Tester has significant opportunities for career advancement within the company. With experience and demonstrated skills, you may progress toward roles in network optimization or engineering positions. The combination of hands-on experience in the field and collaboration with various teams offers a robust career path in telecommunications, with potential leadership roles available as you grow within the organization.

Absolutely! TeleWorld Solutions is committed to being a veteran-friendly workplace, actively encouraging veterans and military spouses to apply for the FWA Drive Tester position. Your military experience equips you with unique skills that align well with our team's mission, and we offer a supportive environment that values dedication, discipline, and leadership qualities that are often present in our veterans. Join us in continuing to serve the telecommunications industry.

In your response, highlight specific tools you've worked with, such as TEMS, XCAL, or Nemo. Discuss specific projects where you utilized these tools to perform drive tests, including the types of data you collected and how you applied your findings to enhance network performance. This demonstrates both your technical skills and your ability to contribute to network optimization.

Share your data analysis process, including any software tools you use for post-processing, such as Actix or Windcatcher. Describe how you interpret metrics such as SINR, RSRP, and RSRQ to evaluate network quality. Providing examples or case studies where your analysis led to meaningful improvements will showcase your analytical capabilities and problem-solving skills.

Describe a specific instance where you faced a challenge during a test, such as equipment malfunction or unexpected signal degradation. Discuss your problem-solving approach, including how you communicated with team members and implemented solutions on the fly. This demonstrates your adaptability and ability to work effectively under pressure.

Highlight your methodical approach to data collection, including pre-surveying locations, following test scripts, and conducting multiple tests to verify results. Emphasize your attention to detail in setting up equipment and the importance of adhering to testing protocols to maintain data integrity. Providing examples will further illustrate your thoroughness.

Discuss key performance indicators such as RSRP, SINR, RSRQ, throughput, and how each relates to overall network performance. Explain how you use these metrics during your tests to assess user experience and signal reliability, and illustrate your understanding by referencing specific scenarios where you monitored these KPIs and made recommendations for improvements.

Choose a project where your contributions were significant, outlining the objectives, your specific role, the methodologies you used during testing, and the impact of your findings on the project. Emphasizing teamwork and the collaborative aspect of your work can further enhance your answer, showcasing your ability to work within a team environment.

Discuss the challenges you've encountered or studied related to FWA deployments, such as interference issues, scalability challenges, and adapting to diverse environments. Relate any personal experience to illustrate your understanding of these challenges and how you might address them during testing to improve overall service quality.

Share your setup process for testing equipment, emphasizing the importance of following specifications and protocols. Discuss techniques you employ to verify configurations before starting tests, ensuring accuracy and reliability in the results. This highlights your meticulous nature and ensures prospective employers of your ability to manage field operations.

Explain the importance of clear communication and collaboration with RF planning teams, field technicians, and project managers. Discuss how you ensure everyone stays informed about the testing process and results, and perhaps mention a tool or method you use to facilitate this communication effectively. Highlighting collaborative moments adds value to your role as a team player.

Express your passion for telecommunications and technology advancements, particularly in improving user experiences through effective network testing. Share about your enjoyment of working in the field, solving real-world problems, and the satisfaction of contributing to robust FWA services. This helps potential employers understand your enthusiasm and investment in the role.