Lead Signal Processing Researcher

STR; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 173,000 - 216,000; Full time

Job summary

STR is looking for a Lead Signal Processing Researcher in Arlington, Virginia. In this full-time position, you will create and lead technical teams focused on developing advanced signal processing algorithms for electronic warfare and sensor applications. This role requires strong skills in RF solutions, algorithm testing, and a PhD/MS/BS in a relevant field.

The successful candidate will possess an Active Security Clearance and communication skills to engage with customers and stakeholders effectively. The salary ranges from $173,000 to $216,000 based on qualifications and experience.

Qualifications

• 3–8+ years of relevant experience adjusted for degree level.
• Active Security Clearance with eligibility to support special access programs.
• Ability to create and present deep technical briefings.

Responsibilities

• Develop electronic warfare and radar system concepts, signal processing and machine learning algorithms.
• Provide technical leadership to small, multi-disciplinary teams.
• Direct modeling and simulation activities of advanced RF systems.

Skills

Scientific programming skills including MATLAB, Python, Simulink, and/or C/C++

Strong communication skills

Experience with designing, implementing, testing, and analyzing ML/AI algorithms

Strong understanding of radar architectures, waveforms, modes, and RF signal chains

Education

PhD, MS, or BS in Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or a related field

Job description

About the Team

The Sensors Division at STR focuses on technology development for advanced sensor systems and platforms in support of national security requirements. Our particular focus areas include airborne/spaceborne/surface-based radar, electronic warfare, underwater acoustics, hyperspectral imaging, and EO/IR sensing. To support these missions, the Division’s efforts span multiple technical areas, including RF analog/digital hardware, acoustic hardware, signal processing algorithms, machine learning algorithms, systems analysis, and real-time embedded processor implementation.

The Algorithms, Processing and Experimentation (APEX) Group specializes in development of RF/radar modes, skills and applications, with particular emphasis on advanced signal processing chains and associated algorithm research. We mature these technologies with the objective of implementation, integration, and eventual utility in RF-based systems, typically tailoring our work for highly specific Defense (e.g., Air Force, Space Force, Navy, DARPA, etc.) and Intelligence Community needs.

About the Role

As a Lead Signal Processing Researcher, you will create and lead technical teams that develop, test, integrate, and demonstrate novel signal processing, optimization, and machine learning algorithms for advanced electronic warfare and sensor applications.

What you will do

• Develop electronic warfare and radar system concepts, signal processing and machine learning algorithms, and RF solutions to remote sensing challenges
• Provide technical leadership to small, multi-disciplinary teams that develop, implement, test, and integrate novel sensing, electronic warfare, and signal processing systems
• Direct modeling and simulation activities of advanced RF systems in support of algorithm development, test, and integration
• Plan and support algorithm test and evaluation activities, including performance assessment in laboratory and field environments
• Clearly communicate with customers, stakeholders, sponsors, prime and subcontractors

Who you are

• Active Security Clearance with eligibility to support special access programs, requiring U.S. citizenship
• PhD, MS, or BS in Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or related technical discipline with 3–8+ years of relevant experience (adjusted for degree level)
• Strong scientific programming skills including MATLAB, Python, Simulink and/or C/C++
• Strong communication skills and the ability to describe complex technical concepts to fellow researchers as well as to non‑technical people
• Ability to translate customer requirements to determine research focus
• Ability to create and present deep technical briefings as well as high‑level briefings to customers and senior management
• Experience with designing, implementing, testing, and analyzing ML/AI algorithms
• Strong understanding of radar architectures, waveforms, modes, and RF signal chains

Even Better

• Current TS/SSBI with SCI and ability to gain and hold SCI/SAP accreditations
• Experience with advanced RF system concepts, signal processing, open architectures, and systems integration
• Experience in software development
• Ability to survey literature to determine state‑of‑the‑art, incorporate recent research, and transition it into integrated, tested solutions
• Understanding and experience interacting with decision-makers and customers to translate mission needs into an end‑to‑end, integrated analytical solution

Pay Information

Full‑Time Salary Range: $173,000 – $216,000
The salary range listed is based on external market data. Offers are based on factors such as the candidate’s experience, education, training, key skills, security clearances, and prevailing market and business conditions.

Equal Employment Opportunity

STR is an equal opportunity employer. We are fully dedicated to hiring the most qualified candidate regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

If you need a reasonable accommodation for any portion of the employment process, email us at [e-mail] and provide your contact info.

Pursuant to applicable federal law and regulations, positions at STR require employees to obtain national security clearances and satisfy the requirements for compliance with export control and other applicable laws.