Senior Scientist (TS/SCI with FS Poly) {S}

ARKA; Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company contributions to qualified HSA accounts

401k retirement plan

3 weeks of vacation

13 paid holidays

Tuition assistance

Annual bonus program

Company paid life and disability insurance

4 weeks paid Parental Leave

Employee assistance program

Job summary

A leading technology company is seeking a Senior Scientist to support U.S. defense and intelligence through innovative software solutions. The candidate will lead the development of signal processing software, requiring a TS/SCI clearance. Strong technical skills in languages like C++, Python, or MATLAB are essential. The role offers a professional work environment with a flexible schedule, competitive benefits including a 401k plan, vacation, and up to four weeks parental leave.

Qualifications

• U.S. citizenship and active TS/SCI U.S. Government Security Clearance with Full Scope Polygraph required.
• Background in SAR and translating SAR technologies into software needed.
• Experience in multi-vendor environments and integration of software into systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead algorithm development and signal processing to software application.
• Convert algorithm definitions into operational software applications.
• Mentor junior team members and collaborate on integration.

Skills

Strong problem-solving skills

C++

Python

MATLAB

Rust

Education

Degree in electrical engineering, signals processing, physics, or related field

Job description

Senior Scientist (TS/SCI with FS Poly) {S}

Job Category: ENG

Requisition Number: SENIO003205

• Posted : February 2, 2026
• Full-Time

Locations

Showing 1 location

Chantilly, VA 20151, USA

Description

ARKA Group L.P. (“ARKA”) is an advanced technologies company serving the U.S. military, intelligence community, and commercial space industry delivering next-generation solutions to support the national security space enterprise. Built on more than six decades of excellence, ARKA brings modern approaches and a culture of innovation to the challenges of today.

We are seeking a system engineer excited to join our team that supports U.S. defense and intelligence community partners. We are developing the next generation of signal and image processing software, building on our 80-year history on the cutting edge of the radar and electro-optical fields. Our team has received numerous patents and developed revolutionary and exquisite technologies and continues that tradition with our current work.

By joining our team, you will build innovative software solutions to support users in the defense and intelligence communities. Your strong technical skills and passion for innovation will be instrumental in supporting our customers and their missions to keep us safe.

Join the ARKA team to learn how Beyond Begins Here. Discover your next career opportunity now!

Position Overview:

ARKA’s RST business unit is seeking an experienced scientist familiar with translating signals and techniques to working software. This position will support our programs developing the next generation of space-based remote sensing and be at the forefront of developing the systems that keep our nation safe. This work is in emerging technology for synthetic aperture radar, from signals processing to image creation.

The team is primarily based in Ypsilanti, Michigan and Chantilly, VA and requires a candidate to be a U.S. citizen holding a TS/SCI U.S. Government Security Clearance with a Full Scope Polygraph.

In support of work/life balance, many positions are available for a flexible schedule within the pay period. Ask us about the opportunity for flex scheduling if that’s of interest to you.

Responsibilities:

• Lead algorithm development and signal processing from conception to software application
• Take algorithm definitions and prototypes and convert them into software applications that run efficiently on large images and are ready for operational environments
• Mentor and transfer knowledge to junior team members
• Collaborate across program and other vendors to integrate algorithms into existing software and hardware platforms
• Represent company and program in various working groups and meetings
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues in a timely and effective manner

Required Qualifications:

• U.S. citizenship and an active TS/SCI U.S. Government Security Clearance with a Full Scope Polygraph
• Degree in electrical engineering, signals processing, physics, or a related technology field. (10 years of professional experience in lieu of degree)
• Background in SAR and how to translate SAR technologies into working software
• Software skills in an applicable language (C++, Python, MATLAB, Rust, or similar)
• Familiarity working in multi-vendor environments and coordinating the integration of software into complex systems
• Experience working with government experts and tying algorithm development to requirements
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with various radar modes: GMTI, ATR, or similar
• Experience working with U.S. Government satellite customers
• Strong personal networks in radar through previous work, academic research, or professional memberships

Location: Chantilly, VA

Chantilly is a picturesque town located in Fairfax County. It has a wonderful historic history, welcoming charm, and many interesting attractions. The attractions found in Chantilly range from the 18th Century to outer space. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, a foodie, or just someone looking to soak in the charm, Chantilly promises an unforgettable experience. Overall, its historic sites, museums, breweries, restaurants, music and many family fun activities make Chantilly a great place to call home!

What We Offer:

• Company contributions to qualified HSA accounts
• 401k retirement plan with industry leading company contributions
• 3 weeks of vacation accrual per year plus time off for sick leave and unscheduled life events
• 13 paid holidays
• Upfront tuition assistance for approved degree programs
• Annual bonus program based on company and employee performance
• Company paid life insurance, AD&D, Short-Term and Long-Term disability insurance
• 4 weeks paid Parental Leave
• Employee assistance program (EAP)

This job operates in a professional office environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee routinely is required to use hands to keyboard, communicate, listen to, and interpret instructions and remain stationary for extended periods of the time. This would require the ability to move around the campus and occasionally move/lift items weighing up to 25 lbs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Applicants are invited to apply for a reasonable accommodation to perform the essential duties of the job. To apply, send a request to [e-mail] or contact 203-797-5000 and press 2 for Human Resources.

ITC & Security Clearance Requirements:

This position requires U.S. citizenship in support of contract requirements. This position also requires an active TS/SCI U.S. Government Security Clearance with a Full Scope Polygraph.

Visa Restrictions:

No visa sponsorship is available for this position.

Pre-employment Screenings:

Employment with any ARKA companies in the U.S. is contingent upon satisfactory completion of several pre-employment requirements to include a credit check, background check, and drug screen.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.