Digital Signal Processing Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 100,000 - 245,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab is seeking a Digital Signal Processing (DSP) engineer to design and develop RF and optical systems for NASA's next generation missions. The ideal candidate has at least 5 years of experience in digital signal processing, a relevant degree, and the ability to obtain a security clearance. This position offers a competitive salary between $100,000 to $245,000 annually and the opportunity to work in a collaborative and innovative environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years experience in digital signal processing for RF or optical systems.
• Experience in wireless modem or receiver design and testing.
• Eligible for Top-Secret level security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Develop concepts for software defined radios and payloads.
• Lead technical teams through the payload development cycle.
• Perform DSP algorithms design, simulation, and costing.
• Contribute to modeling and simulation of space RF systems.

Skills

Digital Signal Processing

MATLAB

RF systems design

Wireless modem design

Software-Defined Radios

Education

BS or MS in Electrical Engineering

PhD in Electrical Engineering

Tools

SystemVue

Simulation software

Job description

Description

Are you experienced with Digital Signal Processing for RF and wireless electronics and systems?

Are you interested in contributing to the development of space RF/ optical systems, payloads, and electronics for communications, PNT, remote sensing, and ISR&T applications?

Are you passionate about teaming and driving technology and science to new levels?

We are seeking a Digital Signal Processing (DSP) engineer to design, analyze and develop RF and optical systems and payloads for NASA and DoW's next generation space missions. You're joining a hard‑working team of engineers who thrive on making critical contributions to our Nation's critical challenges. Our culture embraces unquestionable integrity, trusted service, world‑class expertise, game‑changing impact, highly collaborative, and even fun environment.

Responsibilities

• You will work with engineers and scientists to develop new concepts for software defined radios and payloads for space RF and optical systems for communications, PNT, remote sensing, and ISR&T applications.
• You will lead technical teams throughout the payload development cycle, including concept, trade studies, prototype work, flight development, integration, and test for both space and ground segment applications.
• You will perform DSP algorithms design, simulation, hardware platform trade studies, technical tradeoffs, and costing for both space and ground segment implementations.
• You will contribute to modeling, simulation, and analysis of space RF/ optical systems to support communications, remote sensing, ISR&T, and EW missions.

Qualifications

• Possess a BS or MS in Electrical Engineering or equivalent.
• Have 5+ years direct experience in digital signal processing for RF or optical systems or payload design, development, simulation (MATLAB, SystemVue, or equivalent) and test.
• Have experience in wireless modem or receiver design and/or testing.
• Are willing and able to accommodate flexible hours for spacecraft level testing activities for short periods of time, infrequent travel to customer or sponsor locations as well as spacecraft integration and test sites.
• Are able to obtain an interim Top‑Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI+poly level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You’ll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you:

• Possess a PhD degree in Electrical Engineering with previous digital signal processing for RF systems or payload design leadership experience.
• Have experience with software‑defined radios (SDR), antennas, RF characterization and measurements to Ka‑band or beyond, optical, PNT systems design, radar systems design, or military satellite communications systems.
• Ability to work independently without technical oversight.
• Other key skills: SIGINT, EW, Precision Timing, Time Transfer, PNT, and Radar Design.

About Us

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world‑class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. We are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, while our culture fosters a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where employees can bring their authentic selves to work, grow, and connect with inspiring teammates. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore‑Washington metro area.

Minimum Rate

$100,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$245,000 Annually

EEO Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact [e-mail].