Senior Scientist - Optical Signal Processing

Systemstechnologyresearch; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 139,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Systemstechnologyresearch is seeking a Senior Scientist in Arlington, Virginia, to develop state-of-the-art algorithms for airborne passive optical systems. This role involves working closely with program leadership and the creation of image processing algorithms for national security missions, emphasizing physics-based modeling and simulation.

The ideal candidate will have a BA or MS in a relevant field, 3-5+ years of experience, and strong skills in signal processing and AI/ML. The position offers a competitive salary between $139,000 and $180,000.

Qualifications

• 3-5+ years of relevant work experience.
• Ability to obtain a security clearance, requiring U.S. citizenship.
• Proficiency in one or more scientific or mathematical programming languages.

Responsibilities

• Develop algorithms for airborne passive optical systems.
• Conceive, prototype, test, and mature image processing algorithms.
• Document and present products to a community of scientists.

Skills

Signal processing

Fourier analysis

Linear estimation

Optimization

AI/ML algorithm development

Mathematical programming (MATLAB, Python, C/C++)

Education

BA or MS in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Electrical Engineering

Job description

About the Team:

The Maritime Domain Awareness Group (MDA) develops and delivers advanced signal processing algorithms and techniques for airborne radar and passive optical systems.

MDA fosters a culture of innovation, collaboration, and execution. We develop and analyze cutting edge algorithms for detection and exploitation of signals in high clutter and noise environments using both classical, physics-based approaches, and big data-driven artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) techniques. If you are seeking an opportunity to apply your deep technical knowledge and creativity in a fast-paced, challenging environment to make a lasting impact, we invite you to join us.

The Role:

We are looking for a Senior Scientist to develop state-of-the‑art algorithms and techniques for airborne passive optical systems for the purpose of detection and exploitation of targets with low signal to noise ratios. You will apply first principles of physics to model and simulate realistic environments to develop a deep understanding of clutter environments and then apply that knowledge to develop all relevant components of the signal processing chain from the raw sensor data to the target classification.

What you will do:

• Work closely with program leadership to spearhead efforts that align with program and company priorities
• Conceive, prototype, test, and mature image processing algorithms for critical national security missions
• Document and present products to a community of scientists and subject matter experts

Who You Are:

• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, for which U.S. citizenship is needed by U.S. Government
• BA, or MS in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, or related technical discipline
• 3-5+ years of relevant work experience
• Expertise in two or more of the following areas:
  • Signal processing, Fourier analysis, linear estimation, optimization, adaptive signal processing, AI/ML algorithm development, algorithm development, modeling & simulation, systems engineering, optics modelling
• Experience building and delivering technical briefs to peers, senior level executives, and customers
• Proficiency in one or more scientific or mathematical programming languages, such as MATLAB, Python, and C/C++
• Experienced researcher and team member who is excited to work with mission partners to leverage cutting‑edge technology and research for immediate impact
• Excellent communicator and briefer, who is comfortable communicating with both technical and non‑technical audiences
• Strong mathematical, written, and verbal communication skills

Even Better:

• Active Secret or TS/SCI Clearance
• Demonstrated leadership of complex research, development, and engineering efforts
• Experience with:
  • Passive optical technologies in the defense sector, particularly airborne, downward‑looking sensors
  • Computer vision techniques such as feature identification/matching/tracking, optical flow, background subtraction, etc
  • Interacting with decision‑makers and customers to translate mission needs into an end‑to‑end solution
• Demonstrated ability to conceive, prototype, test, and mature novel algorithms for challenging sensors

Pay Information

Full‑Time Salary Range: $139,000 - $180,000

Equal Opportunity Employment

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.