Senior Principal Algorithm Software Systems Engineer

Leonardo DRS; Cypress (CA); On-site; USD 150,452 - 233,578; Full time

Job summary

Leonardo DRS in Cypress, CA is seeking a Senior Principal Algorithm Software Systems Engineer to lead the development of real-time detection and tracking algorithms for advanced defense systems.

The role requires deep Kalman filtering expertise, strong ownership, and hands-on implementation and validation using Julia, C++, Python, or MATLAB to support trajectory estimation and target discrimination in cluttered environments.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of related experience with 6 years in detection and tracking algorithms.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in physics, applied mathematics, computer science, electrical engineering, or related field.
• Subject matter expertise in real-time detection and tracking algorithms for defense.
• Proficiency in Kalman filtering and missile tracking.
• Strong programming skills in Julia, C++, Python, or MATLAB.
• Experience with simulation tools and environments for algorithm development.

Responsibilities

• Provide subject matter expertise and act as the technical authority for detection and tracking algorithms for OPIR space payloads.
• Lead cross-functional teams and oversee algorithm development and integration into existing systems.
• Conduct performance analysis and validation of algorithms using simulation tools and real-world data.
• Stay abreast of emerging missile detection methodologies to inform development.
• Design and optimize real-time algorithms focusing on filtering, trajectory estimation, and multi-target tracking.

Skills

Real-time detection

Kalman filtering

Missile tracking

Simulation tools

Education

Physics degree

Applied mathematics

Computer science

Electrical engineering

Tools

Julia

C++

Python

MATLAB

Job description

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Senior Principal Algorithm Software Systems Engineer

Location: Cypress, CA, US, 90630

Job ID:114982
Location: Cypress CA
Schedule: 9/80

The Electro Optical InfraredSystems (EOIS) line of business within DRS has locations in Dallas and Austin, TX, Melbourne, FL, and Cypress, CA. EOIS develops, manufactures, and supports infrared and electro-optical solutions for soldiers, ground vehicles and airborneplatforms. We offer an exciting and challenging work environment, a competitive salary and benefits package, and a business culture that rewards performance.

Employing the world’s brightest. Supporting the world’s bravest.

Job Summary

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.

Job Responsibilities

Provide subject matter expertise and act as the technical authority for detection and tracking algorithms used on current and future overhead persistent infrared (OPIR) space payloads.

Lead cross-functional teams and oversee the technical work of algorithm development and integration into existing systems and platforms.

Conduct performance analysis and validation of algorithms using simulation tools and real-world data.

Stay abreast of emerging technologies and methodologies in missile detection and tracking to inform ongoing development efforts.

Contribute to the design, development, and/or optimization of real-time algorithms for missile detection and tracking, focusing on:

• Advanced filtering techniques
• Trajectory estimation and state determination
• Maintaining track custody over multiple targets
• Implement advanced filtering and estimation techniques to enhance detection accuracy and reduce false alarms in cluttered environments.

Qualifications

Required

10+ years of related experience (6 years of direct experience in detection and tracking algorithms)

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in physics, applied mathematics, computer science, electrical engineering, or a related field.

Demonstrated subject matter expertise with real-time detection and tracking algorithms for defense applications.

Proficiency in Kalman filtering techniques and their application to missile tracking.

Strong programming skills in engineering languages such as Julia, C++, Python, or MATLAB.

Experience with simulation tools and environments for algorithm development and testing.

Preferred

Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.

Experience with sensor fusion, multi-target, and track before detect 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.

Existing security clearance, TS preferred.

U.S. Citizenship required. This position requires an active DOD security clearance or the ability to obtain such clearance within a reasonable time after commencement of employment.

The salary range for this position is $150,452/year-$233,578/year.This range reflects the good faith estimate of pay the employer is willing to offer at the time of posting. Several factors can influence the pay scale, including but not limited to: Federal contract labor categories and contract wage rates, collective bargaining agreements, geographic location, business considerations, scope, and responsibilities of the position, local or other applicable market conditions, and internal equity. Other factors include the candidate’s qualifications such as prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education/training, and certifications. In addition to base pay, employees may be eligible for: annual performance-based bonuses, equity awards, and overtime pay (for non-exempt employees as applicable. Our benefits package includes comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), employer matching 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off including vacation, holidays, and sick leave (including ant state-mandated paid sick leave), parental leave benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional development support, and life and disability insurance coverage.

Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS. We are proud to offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan. We champion wellness programs that focus on physical, emotional, and financial well-being. We develop our talent by offering programs and activities to support career-growth, professional development, and skill enhancement. And we understand there is more to life than work, and the importance of offering flexible work schedules with our 9/80 program, competitive vacation, health/emergency leave, paid parental leave, and community service hours.
*Some employees are eligible for limited benefits only

Leonardo DRS, Inc. and its subsidiaries provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Our Vision. To be the leading mid-tier defense technology company in the U.S.

Our Values. The Leonardo DRS culture is defined by our Core Values and Principles:

• Integrity
• Agility
• Excellence
• Customer Focus
• Community & Respect
• Innovation

We strive to uphold them in all aspects of our business practices to inspire our employees and provide outstanding support for our customers.