Str Jobs

Principal Algorithm and Signal Processing Engineer

About the Team: The Sensors Division develops advanced solutions in radar, space-based sensing, electronic warfare, and underwater acoustics. Within the Space Missions and Sensing (SMS) Sector, we focus on advancing space sensing, space control, and counter-sensing technologies for critical national security missions.

The Role: Principal Algorithm and Signal Processing Engineer The SMS Sector is seeking a Principal Algorithm and Signal Processing Engineer to lead the development of state-of-the-art algorithms for the next generation of space systems. In this role, you will bridge the gap between foundational research and mission-ready deployment, developing techniques for EO/IR and RF sensor detection, classification, and autonomous space platform and payload orchestration.

Your work will center on advancing space-based sensing and spacecraft control, leveraging RF, radar, and machine learning to solve complex sensing and resource management challenges. As a technical leader, you will engage directly with customers to translate high-level national security needs into rigorous mathematical frameworks and deployable prototypes. You will lead a team of researchers and collaborate closely with engineering teams to push the boundaries of what is possible in space-based sensing and control.

What you will do:

• Lead the design and application of cutting-edge signal processing and machine learning techniques to solve complex space-based sensing and spacecraft control challenges.
• Engage directly with customers and mission partners to understand unique requirements and shape technical solutions that address critical national security needs.
• Architect autonomous sensor management and processing algorithms that enable real-time processing and autonomy on orbiting platforms.
• Guide multi-disciplinary teams of researchers and engineers, providing the technical vision and mentorship necessary to move from early concept to integration and system verification.
• Drive business development and proposal efforts, identifying new technical opportunities and shaping the future direction of the sector’s research portfolio.

Who you are:

• Clearance: Active Top Secret (TS) security clearance (U.S. citizenship required).
• Education/Experience:
• BS + 7 years, MS + 5 years, or PhD + 3 years of relevant experience in Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or a related technical discipline.
• Sensing & Control Expertise: Extensive experience developing sensor system modes and advanced signal/data-processing algorithms. While expertise in Radar is highly valued, we are seeking a broad application of these skills to space systems, including EO/IR space-based sensing and spacecraft control.
• Machine Learning: Proven experience applying Machine Learning (ML) or AI techniques to solve complex signal processing or sensing challenges.
• Technical Leadership: A track record of leading researchers and engineers through the full lifecycle—from analytical derivation through testing and verification of system performance.
• Communication: Excellent communicator and briefer, comfortable translating high-level mission needs into technical requirements for subcontractors, executives, and customers.
• Programming: Proficiency in one or more scientific programming languages, such as MATLAB, Python, or C/C++.

Even Better:

• Prior experience working on SCI (Sensitive Compartmented Information) or SAP (Special Access Programs).
• Deep expertise in Cognitive EW, Electronic Attack, Electronic Protection, or advanced ESM techniques.
• Hands-on experience with ML frameworks and tools such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, Ray, or MLflow, specifically applied to image recognition or reinforcement learning.
• Experience interacting with high-level government decision-makers to translate abstract mission needs into end-to-end technical solutions.
• A demonstrated ability to apply novel, interdisciplinary approaches to "impossible" engineering problems.

Pay Information

Full-Time Salary Range: $174.000 to $225.000

The salary range listed is based on external market data. Offers are based on factors, such as but not limited to, the candidate’s experience, education, training, key skills/critical skills, security clearances, and prevailing market and business conditions.