Senior Principal Algorithm Software Systems Engineer

Acara Solutions, Inc.; Cypress (CA); Hybrid; USD 170,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

Acara Solutions is seeking a Senior Principal Algorithm Software Systems Engineer in Cypress, CA, on a hybrid schedule. The role focuses on real-time missile detection, Kalman filtering, and trajectory estimation within complex environments, guiding algorithm development from concept to delivery.

The incumbent will lead cross-functional programs, manage plans, drive milestones, and ensure quality across hardware, software, and services while maintaining strong customer partnerships and growth

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in physics, applied mathematics, computer science, or electrical engineering.
• 10+ years experience with Kalman filtering for missile tracking.
• 6+ years real-time detection and tracking algorithms for defense applications.
• 6+ years programming in Julia, C++, Python, or MATLAB.
• 6+ years experience with simulation tools and environments for algorithm development and testing.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of technical development programs and new product initiatives from kickoff through successful completion.
• Partner closely with Program Leadership, Engineering, and cross-functional teams to achieve project milestones, performance goals, and customer commitments.
• Develop and manage detailed project plans, ensuring programs remain on schedule, within budget, and aligned with business objectives.
• Oversee cross-functional teams, providing leadership, direction, and coordination throughout the entire program lifecycle.
• Collaborate with engineering leaders to resolve technical and program challenges, removing obstacles to keep projects moving forward.
• Track program progress, identify risks, and implement proactive solutions to ensure successful project execution.
• Manage product development efforts for hardware, software, services, or integrated solutions while maintaining quality and performance standards.
• Communicate program status, priorities, and key updates to internal stakeholders, leadership, and customers as needed.
• Drive continuous improvement by supporting efficient project execution, cross-functional collaboration, and successful delivery of innovative products and services.

Skills

Kalman filtering

Real-time detection

C++

Python

MATLAB

Julia

Simulation tools

Education

Bachelor's degree in physics, applied mathematics, computer science, electrical engineering

Job description

Senior Principal Algorithm Software Systems Engineer

Job Title: Senior Principal Algorithm Software Systems Engineer
Location: Cypress, CA - Hybrid

Employment Type: Direct Hire or Contract to Hire

Shift:1st

Schedule: 9x80

About the Opportunity

We are seeking a highly skilled Algorithms Software Engineer to join our advanced defense systems team. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in real-time missile detection and a strong foundation in Kalman filtering and related estimation techniques. This role requires strong technical ownership to oversee and guide the development and implementation of sophisticated algorithms to accurately determine target trajectories and velocities in highly cluttered environments, ensuring robust track custody and target discrimination.

What You'll Do

• Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of technical development programs and new product initiatives from kickoff through successful completion.
• Partner closely with Program Leadership, Engineering, and cross-functional teams to achieve project milestones, performance goals, and customer commitments.
• Develop and manage detailed project plans, ensuring programs remain on schedule, within budget, and aligned with business objectives.
• Oversee cross-functional teams, providing leadership, direction, and coordination throughout the entire program lifecycle.
• Collaborate with engineering leaders to resolve technical and program challenges, removing obstacles to keep projects moving forward.
• Track program progress, identify risks, and implement proactive solutions to ensure successful project execution.
• Manage product development efforts for hardware, software, services, or integrated solutions while maintaining quality and performance standards.
• Communicate program status, priorities, and key updates to internal stakeholders, leadership, and customers as needed.
• Drive continuous improvement by supporting efficient project execution, cross-functional collaboration, and successful delivery of innovative products and services.

Why You'll Love Working Here

• Supportive, team-driven culture that values collaboration, transparency, and accountability
• Opportunity to grow your career with a global workforce solutions leader serving multiple industries
• People-first environment that encourages employees to bring their authentic selves to work
• Strong focus on partnership, innovation, and delivering meaningful results for clients and candidates

Why This Opportunity is Exciting

This role offers the chance to join a company that prioritizes both people and performance-where your contributions directly impact client success while giving you room to grow and develop professionally.

About AcaraSolutions

Acara is a premier recruiting and workforce solutions provider-we help companies compete for talent. With a legacy of experience in various industries worldwide, we partner with clients, listen to their needs, and customize visionary talent solutions that drive desired business outcomes. We leverage decades of experience to deliver contingent staffing, direct placement, executive search, and workforce services worldwide.

Job Requirements

What You'll Bring

• Bachelor's degree in physics, applied mathematics, computer science, electrical engineering
• 10+ years of experience in Kalman filtering techniques and their application to missile tracking.
• 6+ years as subject matter expertise with real-time detection and tracking algorithms for defense applications.
• 6+ years programming in engineering languages such as Julia, C++, Python, or MATLAB.
• 6+ years of experience with simulation tools and environments for algorithm development and testing.

What Sets You Apart

• Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Existing security clearance, TS preferred.
• Experience with sensor fusion, multi-target and detect before tracking multi-target tracking systems.
• Demonstrated experience developing detection and tracking algorithms for overhead persistent infrared (OPIR) applications.
• Familiarity with infra-red imagery, multi-spectral imagery, or digital signal processing.
• Knowledge of machine learning techniques applicable to target detection and classification.

Additional Information

• Upon offer of employment, the individual will be subject to a background check and a drug screen
• In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.
• Successful candidate must be able to obtain and main Top Secret security clearance.

Aleron companies (Acara Solutions, Aleron Shared Resources, Broadleaf Results, Lume Strategies, TalentRise, Viaduct) are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Race/Color/Gender/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Veteran.

Applicants for this position must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This position does not meet the employment requirements for individuals with F-1 OPT STEM work authorization status.