RF Software Engineer

Riverside Research; Fairfax, Northern (VA, KY); Hybrid; USD 125,000 - 175,000; Full time

Job summary

Riverside Research in Fairfax, VA seeks an RF Software Research Engineer to lead RF algorithms and software systems within the SWI group, delivering modernized RF and EW capabilities to national security customers. You will drive prototype integration and ensure smooth transition to robust software products through modern development practices.

The role requires expertise in software development, RF signal processing, DSP, and proficiency in C/C++ and Python.

Qualifications

• US citizenship is required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain TS/SCI clearance.
• Bachelor's degree in a STEM field with 5+ years of experience, or Master's with 3+ years, or PhD.
• Experience in DSP, embedded software, or RF signal processing.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, test, deploy, and maintain RF software systems across the engineering lifecycle.
• Lead technical work and mentor teammates; ensure transition of prototype code to production quality.
• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams on integrated RF/EW solutions.
• Document design decisions and progress for stakeholders.
• Establish and uphold software development standards and best practices.

Skills

C/C++

Python

US Citizenship

TS/SCI clearance

DSP architecture

Embedded software development

RF signal processing

Git

CI/CD

Education

Bachelor's in STEM

Master's in STEM

PhD in STEM

Tools

Git

CI/CD tooling

Job description

Riverside Overview

Riverside Research is an independent National Security Nonprofit dedicated to research and development in the national interest. We provide high-end technical services, research and development, and prototype solutions to some of the country’s most challenging technical problems.

All Riverside Research opportunities require U.S. Citizenship.

Position Overview

Riverside Research is seeking a skilled and motivated RF Software Research Engineer to join our Spectrum Warfare Innovation (SWI) group. SWI combines state-of-the-art research with quick reaction prototyping to deliver modernized, tactical radio frequency (RF) and electronic warfare (EW) capability to national security customers.

In this role, you will lead and execute implementation of cutting‑edge RF algorithms and software systems, and support prototype integration. As a lead technical contributor, you will be responsible for ensuring transition of early feasibility code to well‑architected software products through application of modern software development practices. The ideal candidate will have experience working in dynamic R&D environments, from ideation through execution. The candidate should have a track record of outside‑the‑box problem‑solving, a spirit for interdisciplinary collaboration, and the ability to clearly document and articulate technical designs.

The candidate should have expertise in software development and experience with at least one of the following technical application areas:

• RF signal processing (radar and/or communications)
• RF modeling and simulation
• RF autonomy / cognitive tactical systems
• Sensor algorithm development
• Implementation on low size, weight, and power devices

This position is located at our Fairfax, VA office.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, test, deploy, and maintain software systems and applications that support business objectives. Contribute across the full engineering lifecycle—creating and improving products, services, standards, and procedures—while working independently with ownership of daily priorities and potential responsibility for guiding team members
• Design software architecture; write, test, and optimize code; fix bugs; enhance performance; and develop new features based on user and business needs.
• Collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary teams to develop integrated systems
• Document and communicate design decisions, technical challenges, and progress to internal stakeholders.
• Assists in establishing and maintaining standards and best practices for software development
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Must be a US Citizen
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI Security Clearance
• Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's in STEM field with 5+ years of experience, or
  • Master's in STEM field with 3+ years of experience, or
  • PhD in STEM field.
• Relevant years of experience may be substituted in lieu of a degree
• Expertise in one of the following areas:
  • DSP architecture
  • Embedded software development
  • RF signal processing
  • RF modeling and simulation
• Proficient with programming languages, e.g. C/C++ and/or Python
• Proficient with software version control (Git) and Continuous Integration / Continuous Development (CI/CD) principles.
• Proficient with typical digital laboratory equipment (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers)
• Self-driven with strong analytic, inferencing, critical thinking, and creative problem‑solving skills
• Strong written and verbal communications skills
• Ability to operate independently with limited supervision and feedback
• Ability to establish a solid working relationship with technical staff and peers in the group and across Riverside Research.
• Must be able to lift nominal weights, work on uneven terrain, stand for long hours, and/or similar for working in the laboratory and/or field.
• Able to travel (<10 %, as need arises)

Desired Qualifications

• Existing/prior security clearance
• Development experience with DoW or IC programs
• Degree in computer engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, physics or similar with focus in RF, algorithms, or software development
• Demonstrated experience designing and implementing embedded algorithm solutions for defense customers
• Experience with AI code assist
• Desire to learn technical skills alongside how the business operates

Global Comp

$125,000 - $175,000 This represents the typical compensation range for this position based on experience, location and other factors.

Closing Statement

Riverside Research Institute is a not-for-profit, technology-oriented defense company, where service to our customers and support of our staff is our overall mission. Riverside is an affirmative action-equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding recruitment and hiring. Riverside offers comprehensive compensation and benefit packages to our employees. Riverside bases its employment decisions solely on technical experience, qualifications and other job‑related criteria related to our organizational purpose as a not‑for‑profit company, and without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, veteran’s status or any other status legally protected by applicable federal, state, and local law.