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Phd Electrical Engineer Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Arcfield

Radar Systems Enginner

Middletown, RI · On-site

Qualifications Requirements/Skills: * BS 5-7 Years, MS 3-5, PhD 0-2 * Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field. * 5+ years of professional experience in radar systems ...

Careers | CET

Engineering Manager

Bristol, RI

This position will manage the oversight and growth of the mechanical, electrical, software, and ... PhD in Engineering or related field * Prior experience running multidisciplinary teams for DoD ...

Arcfield

Submarine Material Parts Expediter

Middletown, RI · On-site

$21 - $27.50/hr

Work closely with systems, mechanical, and electrical engineers to validate alternate parts and ... years, PhD 0-2 years * If utilizing the military experience substitution in lieu of a degree, a ...

All JobsPhd Electrical Engineer JobsPhd Electrical Engineer Jobs in Rhode Island

Phd Electrical Engineer information

See Rhode Island salary details

$49.5K

$108.8K

$164.5K

How much do phd electrical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd electrical engineer in Rhode Island is $108,793.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,300.00 and $129,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a PhD electrical engineer do?

A PhD Electrical Engineer conducts advanced research, designs, and develops electrical systems or components, often pushing the boundaries of technology. They may work in academia, leading research projects and teaching, or in industry, developing innovative solutions for complex engineering problems. Their expertise is critical in areas like communications, power systems, electronics, and signal processing. PhD-level engineers also contribute to scientific publications and may secure patents for new inventions.

What is the difference between Phd Electrical Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectPhd Electrical EngineerElectrical Engineer
Required CredentialsPhD in Electrical Engineering or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, R&D departmentsDesign, development, and testing in industry or construction
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, high-tech companiesManufacturers, utility companies, consulting firms

The main difference between a Phd Electrical Engineer and an Electrical Engineer lies in their education level and typical work environment. A Phd Electrical Engineer usually holds a doctoral degree and focuses on research, development, and advanced problem-solving, often in academia or R&D. In contrast, an Electrical Engineer typically has a bachelor's or master's degree and works on practical design, implementation, and maintenance in industry settings.

What are some common challenges faced by PhD electrical engineers when transitioning from academia to industry roles?

PhD Electrical Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to faster-paced project timelines, aligning research expertise with immediate business needs, and working within multidisciplinary teams. Unlike academic environments that may prioritize theoretical advances, industry roles usually focus on practical applications, product development, and measurable outcomes. Building strong communication skills and learning to collaborate with professionals from non-engineering backgrounds can help ease this transition and foster career growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD electrical engineer?

To thrive as a PhD Electrical Engineer, you need advanced expertise in electrical engineering principles, research methodologies, and a doctoral degree in the field. Proficiency with simulation software (such as MATLAB or SPICE), programming languages, and laboratory equipment is commonly required, along with experience in publishing academic research. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help you excel in both collaborative and independent research environments. These abilities are crucial for driving innovation, advancing technology, and contributing valuable insights in both academic and industry settings.

What are popular job titles related to Phd Electrical Engineer jobs in Rhode Island?

For Phd Electrical Engineer jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Phd Electrical Engineer jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Phd Electrical Engineer jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Phd Electrical Engineer jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Phd Electrical Engineer job openings:

Phd Electrical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd Electrical Engineer job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $108,793 per year, or $52.3 per hour.

Electrical Engineer III (Photonics & Imaging)

Arcfield

Middletown, RI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities
This position involves assisting in the testing, troubleshooting, and repair of Navy Photonics Mast systems. In this role, you will directly contribute to the sustainment of US Navy Submarines and their imaging needs. You will participate in meetings with program leads and technical experts to provide recommendations for fleet mast usage and dispersal. Additionally, you will lead groups of technicians to best allocate effort, provide technical resolution to complex testing challenges, and design custom test equipment to improve the testing and repair process. As a senior engineer on this program, you will have the opportunity to become a key decision-maker in this enterprise.
These duties will require working on-site at NUWCDIVNPT in Newport, RI.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Lead and coordinate teams of technicians to optimize testing schedules, streamline repair workflows, and resolve technical testing challenges.
  • Design and create custom test equipment, electrical schematics, diagrams, and technical requirements for Technical Data Packages (TDP) to improve the testing and repair process.
  • Develop comprehensive test plans, test readiness evaluations, hardware installations, and troubleshooting procedures while effectively communicating the status and progress of repair tasks.
  • Provide direct testing, troubleshooting, repair, and in-service engineering support for Imaging Systems (Periscopes and Photonics Masts) on US Navy vessels.
  • Perform detailed component analysis on a variety of assemblies, sub-assemblies, and RF electronics.
  • Perform advanced diagnostics and isolation of hardware failures involving complex electronics and electrical assemblies in a lab environment.
  • Prototype, debug, and validate hardware designs and test configurations.
  • Perform rigorous technical analysis of hardware systems, subsystems, and military-specification cable designs (including RF, fiber-optic, and copper).
  • Review, analyze, and provide professional feedback on electrical schematics, engineering diagrams, and Technical Data Packages (TDP) developed by other team members or contractors.
  • Perform trade studies comparing military-specification (mil-spec) and Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) materials to identify suitable replacements or upgrades.
  • Modify or develop supporting software/hardware applications using technologies such as C++ (Linux), Java, MATLAB, Python, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, SQL, and Verilog as required.
  • Collaborate closely with mechanical and systems engineers, Navy program managers, Government civilians, OEMs, and sub-contractors to deliver cohesive, fully functional solutions.
  • Conduct and actively participate in cross-discipline design reviews, representing imaging system testing and sustainment interests.
  • Maintain readiness to travel to support off-site installations, certifications, and new platform configurations.

Qualifications
Qualifications:
  • Education & Experience:
    • Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a closely related technical field with 5-7 years of related experience, OR a Master's Degree with 3-5 years of related experience, OR a PhD with 0-2 years of related experience.
    • Military Experience Substitution: Equivalent, relevant U.S. Navy or military technical electronics experience (e.g., Navy Electronics Technician [ET], Fire Control Technician [FT], or other technical/combat systems ratings with intensive hands-on experience in electronics troubleshooting, testing, and repair) may be substituted for the BS degree requirement on a year-for-year basis (e.g., 10+ years of total relevant technical experience).
  • Technical Skills:
    • Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs (Excel, Word, Visio, PowerPoint, and Outlook).
    • Direct experience with electrical CAD design software such as Altium, OrCAD, and LTSpice.
    • Experience operating and working with lab equipment such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, power supplies, logic analyzers, and Field Fox Network Analyzers.
    • Strong familiarity with RF test equipment and systems, ideally involving antennas, amplifiers, filters, and signal distribution.
  • Professional Attributes:
    • Exceptional organizational and critical thinking skills, with an unwavering attention to detail.
    • Demonstrated ability to lead technical personnel, allocate efforts, and drive testing tasks to completion.
    • Ability to effectively communicate, both orally and in writing, to all levels of the customer organization.
    • Ability to interpret customer goals, coordinate independently, and work seamlessly within a multi-disciplinary team.
    • Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), meet tight deadlines, and multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
  • Travel & Security:
    • Position may require up to 10% travel.
    • Ability to obtain and maintain an active Secret security clearance.

Additional Skills of Interest (Not Required):
  • Experience with submarine imaging and periscope systems. Special consideration is given to candidates with prior military service on submarines.
  • Experience or working knowledge of US Navy SUBSAFE, Material Control, and Fleet Maintenance programs and policies.
  • Experience with PCB layout, design, and fabrication.
  • Experience with microcontrollers, FPGAs, and embedded systems.
  • General knowledge of mechanical CAD design software such as SolidWorks.

Equal Pay Act
This is the projected compensation range for this position. There are differentiating factors that can impact a final salary/hourly rate, including, but not limited to, Contract Wage Determination, relevant work experience, skills and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location (For Remote Opportunities), education and certifications as well as Federal Government Contract Labor categories. In addition, Arcfield invests in its employees beyond just compensation. Arcfield 's benefits offerings include, dependent upon position, Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Paid Time Off, Holiday Pay, Short Term and Long-Term Disability, Retirement and Savings, Learning and Development opportunities, wellness programs as well as other optional benefit elections. Min: $84,362.83 Max: $146,690.59
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and federal government contractor. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment as protected by law.

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