Principal RF Design Engineer SME: High-Paying Role at Secmation in Melbourne, FL

Are you an expert in RF design engineering seeking a senior-level position with government impact? The Principal RF Design Engineer SME job at Secmation offers a competitive salary of $165,000 to $250,000 annually in Melbourne, Florida. This role demands U.S. citizenship due to security clearance requirements, focusing on advanced RF systems for defense and cybersecurity applications. In this comprehensive guide, learn about the responsibilities, qualifications, and how to position yourself for success in RF engineer jobs.

Introduction

The demand for skilled Principal RF Design Engineers, especially those with Subject Matter Expert (SME) status, is surging in the defense and aerospace sectors. Secmation, a leader in cybersecurity solutions, has posted this opportunity in Melbourne, FL, as of October 10, 2025. This position involves cutting-edge work in radio frequency (RF) systems, including simulations, technical documentation, and stakeholder reporting. With a salary band reflecting senior expertise, it’s ideal for professionals holding active security clearances.

What is RF Design Engineering?

RF design engineering centers on developing systems that transmit and receive radio waves, crucial for radar, communications, and electronic warfare. A Principal level SME brings deep knowledge to lead projects, optimize performance, and innovate under strict government standards.

Analysis

Breaking down the job description reveals a multifaceted role tailored for defense contractors. Responsibilities include conducting investments in RF technologies, running venture simulations for risk assessment, and documenting findings for internal teams and government stakeholders. This SME position requires maintaining the highest standards of technical standing, emphasizing leadership in RF circuit design, antenna systems, and signal integrity.

Core Technical Responsibilities

Expect hands-on work with RF simulation tools like Keysight ADS or Ansys HFSS, prototyping high-frequency circuits, and ensuring compliance with MIL-STD specifications. The role supports Secmation’s mission in secure communications, where RF expertise intersects with cybersecurity.

Location and Company Context

Melbourne, FL, hosts Space Coast innovation hubs like Kennedy Space Center, making it a hotspot for RF design engineer jobs. Secmation specializes in embedded systems security, leveraging RF for mission-critical applications.

Summary

In summary, the Principal RF Design Engineer SME at Secmation is a senior engineering position paying $165,000–$250,000 per year. Located in Melbourne, FL, it mandates U.S. citizenship for government clearance. Key duties encompass RF simulations, technical reporting, and stakeholder engagement, positioning it as a pinnacle for RF professionals in defense tech.

Key Points

Practical Advice

To land this or similar Principal RF Design Engineer roles, tailor your application strategically. Start by updating your resume to highlight RF-specific achievements, such as designing Ka-band amplifiers or reducing insertion loss in phased arrays.

Application Tips

• Customize Your Resume: Use keywords like “RF circuit design,” “SME RF simulations,” and “DoD clearance” to pass ATS filters.
• Prepare Portfolio: Showcase schematics, S-parameter results, and simulation reports from tools like MATLAB or CST Studio.
• Network on LinkedIn: Connect with Secmation engineers and join groups like IEEE MTT-S for RF insights.
• Interview Prep: Practice explaining RF concepts like noise figure, VSWR, and Friis transmission equation. Demonstrate SME knowledge with real-world examples.

Skill Development for RF SMEs

Enroll in courses on Coursera (e.g., RF Design by IEEE) or pursue certifications like Certified RF Engineer. Hands-on experience with 5G mmWave or EW systems is invaluable.

Points of Caution

While lucrative, RF design engineer SME jobs come with challenges. Government clearance processes can take 6-18 months, delaying start dates. High salary reflects intense workloads, including on-call support for classified projects.

Common Pitfalls

• Clearance Delays: Only apply if you have or qualify for Secret/Top Secret clearance.
• Relocation Risks: Melbourne’s cost of living is moderate, but housing competition is fierce near aerospace firms.
• Burnout Potential: Balance RF innovation with work-life boundaries in high-stakes defense environments.

Comparison

Compared to similar roles, Secmation’s offering excels in salary. For instance, Raytheon (Melbourne, FL) Principal RF Engineers earn $150K-$220K, while Lockheed Martin averages $160K-$240K. Northrop Grumman in nearby areas offers $170K-$260K but requires more travel.

Salary and Benefits Breakdown

This table highlights Secmation’s competitive edge in the Florida Space Coast market for RF engineer jobs.

Legal Implications

U.S. citizenship is non-negotiable due to ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) and EAR (Export Administration Regulations) compliance. Handling classified RF technologies prohibits non-citizens from access. Failure to disclose dual citizenship can lead to clearance denial. Employers like Secmation must verify eligibility via E-Verify, ensuring legal hiring practices.

Clearance Process Overview

Expect SF-86 form submission, background checks, and polygraphs for TS/SCI levels common in RF defense roles. Legal advice: Consult an attorney if immigration status affects eligibility.

Conclusion

The Principal RF Design Engineer SME position at Secmation represents a premier opportunity for seasoned RF experts in Melbourne, FL. With a robust salary, impactful work in national security, and growth in the RF sector—projected to expand 7% annually per BLS data—this role aligns with career peaks. Act swiftly on such postings, refine your expertise, and secure your place in advanced RF design engineering.

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