Junior DSP Engineer

Cedar Electronics; Olde West Chester (OH); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Cedar Electronics, a leader in Cobra and Escort brands, is hiring a Junior DSP Engineer in Ohio. The role focuses on DSP algorithm development, embedded firmware, and FPGA integration for high-performance radar systems.

You will work across the product lifecycle, from design to hardware bring-up, collaborating with R&D, product, QA, and manufacturing teams to ensure robust, scalable solutions.

Qualifications

• BS in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering or equivalent.
• 0-2 years experience developing DSP algorithms, embedded firmware, and/or FPGA logic.
• Coursework or introductory experience with DSP fundamentals: sampling theory, filtering, FFT/spectral analysis.
• Coursework or introductory experience with embedded C/C++ and FPGA development (VHDL).
• Experience using MATLAB or Python for simulation and data analysis.
• Experience with communication protocols such as RS232, SPI, I2C, etc.
• Coursework or introductory experience with logic simulators such as Modelsim/Questa or manufacturer-specific development tools.
• Familiarity with basic statistics and signal detection/estimation concepts.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the design and implementation of embedded DSP algorithms for radar systems.
• Simulate and validate detection algorithms using MATLAB or Python; transition models to embedded implementations.
• Translate algorithms into fixed-point/real-time implementations for embedded targets and FPGA solutions.
• Integrate DSP solutions with RF transceivers and mixed-signal hardware.
• Support hardware bring-up and debugging, including mixed-signal verification.

Skills

DSP algorithms

Embedded firmware

FPGA development

MATLAB

Python

Serial protocols (RS232/SPI/I2C)

ModelSim/Questa

Fixed-point arithmetic

Machine learning (intro)

Education

BS in Electrical Engineering

Tools

MATLAB

Python

Modelsim/Questa

VHDL

Job description

Cedar Electronics, a leading electronics firm known for its Cobra and Escort brands, is committed to innovation and quality. Head quartered in Chicago; Cedar Electronics offers a dynamic work environment focused on developing high-quality consumer electronics. The company is embarking on an exciting phase of growth and development, and this role is pivotal in driving product excellence and team leadership.

Role Summary

The Junior DSP Engineer is responsible for assisting with development of digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms, embedded firmware, and VHDL development for high-performance radar detection systems, reporting to the Senior DSP Engineer. This position requires elementary knowledge in signal detection methods, spectral analysis, and multi-rate filtering, with preferred experience working on systems that incorporate full transceivers such as the AD9363. Unlike MCU-based solutions, this role is focused on higher-end platforms where DSP optimization, scalability, and RF integration are central to system performance.

The engineer will contribute throughout the entire product lifecycle, from algorithm design and simulation to hardware bring-up, validation, and production support. Hands-on responsibilities include debugging mixed-signal hardware, verifying algorithms in both simulated and real-world environments. The Junior DSP Engineer builds proficiency in DSP algorithm development, hardware/software integration, and system debugging while collaborating closely with R&D, product, QA, and manufacturing teams to deliver reliable, high-quality systems.

Essential Functions

• Assist with the design and implementation of embedded DSP algorithms for high-performance radar detection systems, including filtering, spectral analysis, and signal classification, ensuring efficient use of processing and memory resources.
• Simulate and validate detection algorithms using tools such as MATLAB or Python, and transition models into embedded implementations.
• Support translation of algorithms into fixed-point / real-time implementations for embedded targets and FPGA solutions.
• Integrate DSP solutions with RF transceivers (e.g., AD9363) and mixed-signal hardware, ensuring seamless interaction with system-level software.
• Support hardware bring-up and debugging, including mixed-signal verification, board-level testing, and signal integrity analysis.
• Perform hands-on lab validation and troubleshooting using oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, and other RF test equipment.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and senior engineers (microwave, RF, embedded software, mechanical, product management) to ensure complete system integration and performance.
• Analyze, profile, and optimize DSP implementations to enhance efficiency, stability, and scalability across multiple product generations.
• Provide technical documentation and design reviews to support knowledge transfer, traceability, and long‑term product support.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• 0-2 years of hands-on experience developing DSP algorithms, embedded firmware, and/or FPGA logic, including internship, co-op, or academic project work.
• BS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or equivalent.
• Coursework or introductory experience with DSP fundamentals: sampling theory, filtering, FFT/spectral analysis, radar detection algorithms.
• Coursework or introductory experience with embedded C/C++ and FPGA development (VHDL).
• Experience using MATLAB or Python for simulation and data analysis.
• Experience with communication protocols such as RS232, SPI, I2C, etc.
• Coursework or introductory experience with logic simulators such as Modelsim/Questa or manufacturer-specific development tools.
• Familiarity with basic statistics and signal detection/estimation concepts.

Preferred Qualifications

• Introductory experience with machine learning/artificial intelligence.
• Introductory experience with fixed-point arithmetic and hardware resource trade-offs.
• Familiarity with C#, .NET, Python, or similar languages used for internal tools and test applications.

Location

This is a hybrid role based out of our West Chester, OH office.

Type of Employment

Full-time salaried position with benefits.

Reporting

This position will report to the Senior DSP Engineer

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Cedar Electronics is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.