Senior Signal Processing Researcher

STR; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 139,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

STR’s Sensors Division in Arlington is seeking a Senior Algorithm & Signal Processing Researcher to develop state-of-the-art HF communication algorithms and geolocation methods. You will interact with customers, collaborate with researchers, and work with engineering teams to demonstrate enhanced system capabilities.

You will apply cutting-edge signal processing, address complex HF propagation challenges, and contribute to prototype deployments while documenting findings for a technical audience.

Qualifications

• US citizenship with the ability to obtain a Top Secret security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Spearhead efforts with program leadership to align with priorities.
• Apply advanced signal processing to solve HF propagation challenges for national security missions.
• Collaborate with diverse teams to develop and deploy prototype systems demonstrating extended capabilities.
• Document and present results to a community of scientists and experts.

Skills

RF signal processing

HF propagation

Geolocation

Python

MATLAB

C/C++

Communication

Education

Electrical Engineering / Applied Mathematics / Physics degree

Job description

Overview

The Sensors Division at STR focuses on technology development for advanced sensor systems to add national security capabilities, particularly in the areas of airborne/surface‑based radar, electronic warfare, underwater acoustics, hyperspectral imaging, and EO/IR sensing. Within these areas, we perform work on emerging concepts & technologies, component & system development and prototyping, and experimental campaigns.

The Optical & Novel Sensing (ONS) Group within the Sensors Division pursues physics‑driven research across multiple domains to provide warfighter and intelligence mission performance unachievable with traditional sensors. Our main customer focus is on Department of War and Intelligence Community research and development programs, with work spanning concept formulation through validation prototyping.

Role

Senior Algorithm & Signal Processing Researcher

Develop and apply state‑of‑the‑art algorithms and techniques for HF communications, including signal detection, channel equalization, and geolocation. Engage directly with customers to communicate technical analyses, collaborate with researchers, and work with engineering teams to develop, demonstrate, and optimize system capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with program leadership to spearhead efforts that align with program and company priorities.
• Apply cutting‑edge signal processing techniques to solve complex HF propagation challenges for critical national security missions.
• Collaborate with diverse teams, learning from different perspectives to develop and deploy prototype systems that demonstrate our ability to extend the boundaries of what is possible.
• Document and present products to a community of scientists and subject matter experts.

Qualifications

• Ability to obtain a Top Secret security clearance, requiring U.S. citizenship.
• PhD, MS, or BS in Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or related technical discipline.
• 3+ years of experience on RF programs, including the development of advanced signal‑ and data‑processing algorithms from derivation through testing and verification of system performance.
• Experience in two or more of the following areas: RF signal processing, HF propagation (or propagation in dispersive, heterogeneous media), adaptive signal processing, algorithm development, system modeling & simulation, and geolocation.
• Excellent communicator with ability to develop and tailor technical briefs to influence a range of technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Proficiency in one or more scientific or mathematical programming languages, such as MATLAB, Python, and C/C++.
• Strong mathematical, troubleshooting, written, and verbal communication skills.

Even Better

• Demonstrated ownership of complex research, development, and engineering efforts.
• Advanced degree in Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or a related technical discipline.
• Experience with HF propagation modes and an understanding of the underlying physics and end‑to‑end signal processing chain.
• Ability to apply novel, innovative, and interdisciplinary approaches to challenging engineering problems.

Pay Information

Full‑Time Salary Range: $139,000 – $170,000

Equal Opportunity Employer

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.