1

Contract Radar Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

The selected candidate must demonstrate the knowledge and skills applicable for obtaining radar and ... contract Instructor at an FAA facility. Experience must have been at the same type and same [or ...

Contract Radar Engineer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$81.7K

$85.4K

$88K

How much do contract radar engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract radar engineer in Portland, OR is $85,370.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,800.00 and $87,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Contract Radar Engineer vs Contract Sonar Engineer?

AspectContract Radar EngineerContract Sonar Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, relevant certifications in radar systemsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications in sonar or underwater acoustics
Work EnvironmentOn-site at defense or aerospace facilities, engineering labsOn-site at naval or underwater research facilities, labs
Employer & Industry UsageDefense contractors, aerospace companies, military projectsNaval forces, underwater research agencies, defense contractors

Contract Radar Engineers and Contract Sonar Engineers both work in defense and aerospace sectors, focusing on sensor systems. The main difference lies in their specialization: radar versus sonar technology. While their credentials and work environments overlap, their expertise applies to different detection systems used in military and research applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract radar engineer?

To thrive as a Contract Radar Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, radar systems, and signal processing, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and experience in radar technology. Familiarity with simulation tools like MATLAB, RF design software, and industry standards such as MIL-STD is highly valued, along with certifications in areas like RF engineering or security clearance for defense projects. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and adapt to project-specific challenges. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering reliable radar solutions that meet technical requirements and project deadlines.

What is a contract radar engineer?

Contract Radar Engineers are professionals who specialize in the design, development, testing, and maintenance of radar systems on a contract or temporary basis. They typically work on projects for defense, aerospace, maritime, or weather monitoring organizations, providing their expertise for a fixed period or specific project. These engineers are responsible for ensuring that radar systems function optimally and meet technical specifications, often collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Their contract status allows organizations to access specialized skills without committing to permanent employment.

What are some common challenges contract radar engineers face when joining new projects, and how can they overcome them?

Contract Radar Engineers often encounter challenges such as quickly adapting to new teams, understanding proprietary radar systems, and aligning with existing project timelines. To overcome these hurdles, it's important to proactively communicate with team members, thoroughly review technical documentation, and seek clarification on project goals early on. Familiarity with a variety of radar platforms and flexibility in working styles can also help engineers integrate smoothly and deliver effective results within tight contract periods.

What are popular job titles related to Contract Radar Engineer jobs in Portland, OR?

For Contract Radar Engineer jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Radar Engineer jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Radar Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:

Infographic showing various Contract Radar Engineer job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,370 per year, or $41 per hour.

P80 Air Traffic Control Instructor-II

Science Applications International Corporation

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 224 rated it services


Job description


  • ATTN FERS RETIREES: Earnings received as an ATC Instructor, ATC Training Instructional Supervisor, or Contractor Site Supervisor working on this program are EXEMPT from the Supplemental Annuity earnings limits for FERS retirees between the ages of 56 and 62.

We are looking for an experienced, Full-time, Air Traffic Control Instructor to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Portland TRACON (P80) in Portland, OR, supporting air traffic controller training services for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The successful candidate for this position must demonstrate strong technical skills with current ATC automation, simulation systems and procedures. This position may provide mentoring for students and Remote Pilot Operators (RPO), and may participate in curriculum design and development. The selected candidate must demonstrate the knowledge and skills applicable for obtaining radar and/or non-radar simulation laboratory certifications at FAA air traffic control facilities within the U.S. National Airspace System.
The CTS Instructor is a hands-on position that requires the candidate to effectively and consistently deliver the highest quality classroom and/or simulation laboratory training to a wide variety of students including developmental air traffic controllers and Certified Professional Controllers (CPC).
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for ensuring that air traffic control specialists provide the flying public with a high level of safety and professionalism. A well-trained Air Traffic Control (ATC) workforce plays an essential role in fulfilling this responsibility. The FAA employs more than 14,000 air traffic controllers. They work in air traffic facilities of varying sizes, safely separating more than 50,000 aircraft in the National Airspace System (NAS) each day.
To provide such air traffic services, the FAA trains new air traffic control specialists and provides recurrent training to current air traffic control specialists. The FAA utilizes Contractor-provided instructional services at FAA ATC facilities throughout the U.S. and its Territories to ensure these training needs are met. The scope of the contractor-provided services includes all training and training program support to successfully train and prepare students to become fully certified air traffic controllers. SAIC must provide training and training related support services as required for all types and levels of ATC facilities.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
US Citizenship is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance.
The CTS Instructor candidate must have a minimum of five (5) years of FAA CPC experience controlling live traffic, or recent experience as a contract Instructor at an FAA facility. Experience must have been at the same type and same [or greater] level of ATC facility as the Portland TRACON (P80) .
Desired Skills and Experience:
• Direct experience as a Certified Professional Controller (CPC) at the Portland TRACON (P80) is preferred but not required.
• Operational Experience with ATC simulators including scenario design for simulation platforms (e.g. TSS, AT Coach, SGET, etc.).
• Demonstrated ability to interface effectively with FAA personnel at all levels to ensure the delivery of training services meet the needs of the local facility, as well as the FAA's overall Air Traffic Control mission is highly desired.
• Experience demonstrating excellent teaching and/or platform skills, classroom management techniques, and a student-focused drive for continuous improvement.
Education:
• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required.
• FAA Certified Professional Controller (CPC) certification required with the ability to obtain and maintain Instructor-II Simulation Laboratory and Classroom Certification.
About Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

What SAIC employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom