1

Rf Development Engineer Jobs in Santa Rosa Beach, FL

Chief Engineer

Fort Walton Beach, FL · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

Zone 5 is seeking a Chief Engineer to lead the development and integration of next-generation ... Knowledge of datalinks, RF communications, and network-centric operations * Experience with digital ...

Showing results 21-40

Rf Development Engineer information

See Santa Rosa Beach, FL salary details

$33.5K

$106.6K

$165.7K

How much do rf development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for rf development engineer in Santa Rosa Beach, FL is $106,562.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,300.00 and $125,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Rf Development Engineer vs Rf Test Engineer?

AspectRf Development EngineerRf Test Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Electrical Engineering, RF or CommunicationsBachelor's or higher in Electrical Engineering, RF or Communications
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and optimize RF circuits and systemsTest and validate RF products and prototypes
Industry UsageResearch and development, product designQuality assurance, testing labs, manufacturing

While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work in RF and communications industries, the Rf Development Engineer focuses on designing and developing RF components, whereas the Rf Test Engineer specializes in testing and validating these components to ensure performance and quality.

What are some typical challenges an RF development engineer faces when working on new wireless products?

RF Development Engineers often encounter challenges such as minimizing signal interference, ensuring regulatory compliance, and optimizing circuit layout for performance and manufacturability. Collaborating closely with hardware, firmware, and testing teams is essential to quickly address issues like electromagnetic compatibility or unexpected test results. Staying up-to-date with evolving communication standards and troubleshooting complex integration problems are also common aspects of the role. These challenges make adaptability and strong problem-solving skills valuable assets in this position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an RF development engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an RF Development Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, strong understanding of RF circuit design, and a relevant degree such as a B.S. or M.S. in Electrical Engineering. Familiarity with simulation tools like ADS, HFSS, or CST, as well as experience with network analyzers and spectrum analyzers, is typically required. Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with teams and troubleshoot complex issues. These skills are crucial for developing reliable RF systems that meet performance standards and project requirements.

What is an RF development engineer?

RF Development Engineers are specialized professionals who design, develop, and test radio frequency (RF) systems and components used in wireless communication devices and networks. Their work often involves creating circuits, antennas, and modules that operate at high frequencies, ensuring optimal performance and regulatory compliance. They collaborate closely with hardware engineers, software developers, and testing teams to integrate RF solutions into products like smartphones, satellite systems, and radar equipment. RF Development Engineers also troubleshoot signal issues, analyze system performance, and help improve device efficiency and connectivity.

Is RF development engineering in demand?

RF development engineering is in high demand due to the growth of wireless communication, 5G technology, and IoT devices. Professionals with skills in RF circuit design, testing, and simulation tools like ADS or HFSS are sought after across telecommunications, aerospace, and consumer electronics industries.
What job categories do people searching Rf Development Engineer jobs in Santa Rosa Beach, FL look for? The top searched job categories for Rf Development Engineer jobs in Santa Rosa Beach, FL are:
What cities near Santa Rosa Beach, FL are hiring for Rf Development Engineer jobs? Cities near Santa Rosa Beach, FL with the most Rf Development Engineer job openings:

Manager of Hardware Engineering

Kratos Defense

Fort Walton Beach, FL

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Kratos Defense & Security Solutions rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on uncrewed systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting-edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost-effective solutions to market.

Micro Systems Inc. (MSI), a division of Kratos Defense, is renowned for its expertise in developing, delivering, integrating, and supporting high-performance, cost-effective, uncrewed aerial systems and self-driving trucks. As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing systems to support National Security.

At MSI, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team collaborates to cultivate a supportive and dynamic workplace, fostering creativity and promoting professional development while honoring personal and family lives. Join our team and help shape the future of autonomous technology within the defense and commercial industry today!

The Mission As the Manager of Hardware Engineering, you will lead the cross-functional development of next-generation electronic systems for unmanned airborne platforms. You will bridge the gap between high-level strategy and technical execution, overseeing the lifecycle of autonomous vehicle electronic technologies from initial concept through to field deployment and DoD certification.

Key Responsibilities

  • Technical Leadership: Lead and mentor a multi-disciplinary team of Hardware, RF, Mechanical, and PWB engineers in a high-stakes, fast-paced environment.
  • Strategic Oversight: Manage the full engineering lifecycle (R&D, Design, V&V) for electronic systems, ensuring alignment with program milestones and budgetary constraints.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Act as the primary technical liaison between executive leadership, internal engineering teams, and DoD stakeholders.
  • Innovation & Architecture: Drive the architecture and implementation of complex RF datalinks, electronic avionics, FPGAs, and embedded processor architectures.
  • Growth & Capture: Lead technical bids and proposals (SOW/ROM/RFP) and foster a culture of continuous professional development for engineering staff.

Core Qualifications

  • Experience: 8+ years in complex hardware/systems development, with 5+ years in a formal technical leadership or management role.
  • Domain Expertise: Proven track record in airborne avionics, I/O systems, RF design, and Embedded Systems within the UAV or autonomous vehicle space.
  • Regulatory & Compliance: Understanding of DoD standards, including MIL-STD-461 (EMI) and MIL-STD-810 (Environmental) testing protocols.
  • Education: BS in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics or related technical field.
  • Communication: Exceptional ability to translate complex technical roadblocks into actionable business strategy for non-technical stakeholders.

The Tech Environment

  • Systems: Unmanned airborne platforms - avionics, datalinks, C2, and ancillary ground support equipment.
  • Electronics: Digital/Analog design, High-speed FPGA (Xilinx), and RF architectures.
  • Methodologies: Waterfall Design Methodology, formal design reviews (PDR/CDR), and modern EDA/Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) tools.

THE ABOVE STATEMENTS ARE INTENDED TO DESCRIBE THE GENERAL NATURE AND LEVEL OF WORK BEING PERFORMED BY INDIVIDUALS ASSIGNED TO THIS CLASSIFICATION. THEY ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE CONSTRUED AS AN EXHAUSTIVE LIST OF ALL RESPONSIBILITIES, DUTIES AND SKILLS REQUIRED OF PERSONNEL SO CLASSIFIED.

A REVIEW OF THIS CLASSIFICATION HAS EXCLUDED THE MARGINAL FUNCTIONS OF THE CLASSIFICATION THAT ARE INCIDENTAL TO THE PERFORMANCE OF FUNDAMENTAL JOB JUTIES. ALL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ARE ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND REQUIREMENTS AND ARE SUBJECT TO POSSIBLE MODIFICATION TO REASONABLY ACCOMMODATE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES TO PERFORM THIS JOB PROFICIENTLY.   THE REQUIREMENTS LISTED IN THIS DOCUMENT ARE THE MINIMUM LEVELS OF KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS OR ABILITIES

EEO/M/F/D/V

#LI-Onsite


What Kratos Defense & Security Solutions employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom