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Contractual Signal Processing Research Scientist Jobs

Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science 5+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Signal Processing (ARL) - Intermediate ...

Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science 19+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Signal Processing (ARL) - Senior ...

Our main customer focus is on Department of War and Intelligence Community research and development ... Document and present products to a community of scientists and subject matter experts Who You Are:

Our main customer focus is on Department of War and Intelligence Community research and development ... Document and present products to a community of scientists and subject matter experts Who You Are:

Engineering: controls, estimation theory, digital signal processing, and machine learning ... A Research Scientist should have effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ...

Our main customer focus is on Department of War and Intelligence Community research and development ... Document and present products to a community of scientists and subject matter experts Who You Are:

Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science 2+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Signal Processing (ARL) - Professional, this ...

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Contractual Signal Processing Research Scientist information

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$50.5K

$130.1K

$174K

How much do contractual signal processing research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for contractual signal processing research scientist in the United States is $130,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contractual signal processing research scientist?

A Contractual Signal Processing Research Scientist is a professional who works on a temporary or project-based contract to conduct research and develop new techniques in signal processing. Signal processing involves analyzing, modifying, and interpreting signals such as sound, images, and scientific measurements. These scientists typically work in fields like telecommunications, healthcare, defense, or audio engineering, using mathematics and computer science to solve complex problems. Their work may include designing algorithms, running experiments, and publishing research findings, often collaborating with other scientists and engineers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contractual signal processing research scientist?

To thrive as a Contractual Signal Processing Research Scientist, you need an advanced degree in electrical engineering, mathematics, or a related field, with expertise in algorithms and statistical signal analysis. Proficiency in programming languages like MATLAB or Python, experience with simulation tools, and familiarity with relevant standards or certifications such as IEEE are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you excel in collaborative research environments. These competencies are crucial for developing innovative solutions, validating results, and effectively contributing to research projects under contractual timelines.

What are the main challenges faced by a contractual signal processing research scientist when working on short-term projects?

One of the primary challenges for Contractual Signal Processing Research Scientists is quickly adapting to new project requirements and organizational cultures, as contracts are often short-term and project-specific. You may need to rapidly familiarize yourself with existing systems, datasets, and research goals, often with limited onboarding time. Additionally, balancing innovative research with strict project deadlines can be demanding, as clients typically expect actionable results within a fixed timeframe. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams is common, so strong communication and adaptability are key to integrating your expertise efficiently.

What cities are hiring for Contractual Signal Processing Research Scientist jobs?

Cities with the most Contractual Signal Processing Research Scientist job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Signal Processing Research Scientist jobs?

The most popular types of Signal Processing Research Scientist jobs are:

What states have the most Contractual Signal Processing Research Scientist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Contractual Signal Processing Research Scientist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Contractual Signal Processing Research Scientist jobs?

For Contractual Signal Processing Research Scientist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Signal Processing Engineer

University Park, PA • On-site

Penn State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 51 - 200 employees

$121K - $231K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
We are searching for a motivated and talented Signal Processing Research and Development Engineer to join the Acoustic Data Science Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. The primary focuses of this role are in the areas of acoustics, signal processing, algorithm development, modeling, data analysis, and software engineering with an interest in undersea systems. You will join a team of scientists and engineers working to develop next generation sonar systems and sonar signal processing algorithms for a range of Navy applications.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You will:
  • Develop modeling and simulation of sonar systems and analysis of sonar data collected by fielded sensors systems
  • Make comparisons between the measured data and sonar models, implementation of computer algorithms to extract information from the recorded data, and generation of reports and presentations to document findings
  • Work on real-time/high-performance implementation of the developed algorithms and/or models

Additional responsibilities for higher level position includes:
  • May serve as a technical leader on multiple sonar projects
  • Provide technical leadership within the division for programs
  • Make substantial contributions to determining feasibility of goals/objectives of moderate to large size and scope projects
  • May supervise lower-level employees and students in the group

Required skills/experience areas include:
  • Signal Processing
  • MATLAB
  • Algorithm Development
  • Ability to work well as part of a team
  • Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if required

Preferred skills/experience areas include:
  • Python, C++, CUDA, time-series analysis, and signal processing
  • Ability to express yourself and ideas successfully to others in order to provide understanding
  • Success in an office environment, where various forms of communication and organizational skills were crucial to be effective

Your working location will be fully on-site, located in State College, PA. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process. This position will require periodic travel to remote locations in support of testing as part of a small team of researchers, engineers, and technologists.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Signal Processing (ARL) - Senior Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science14+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Signal Processing (ARL) - Advanced Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science5+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:None
ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC).
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL):Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $121,704.00 - $231,000.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
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