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Darpa Program Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Lead Signal Processing Researcher

Dayton, OH ยท On-site

$173K - $216K/yr

... DARPA, etc.) and Intelligence Community needs. About the Role: As a Lead Signal Processing ... Active Security Clearance, with eligibility to support special access programs, for which US ...

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Darpa Program information

See Ohio salary details

$20.4K

$43.5K

$59.9K

How much do darpa program jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for darpa program in Ohio is $43,467.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,700.00 and $45,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DARPA Program Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a DARPA Program Manager, you need expertise in science or engineering, experience leading research projects, and often an advanced degree (e.g., PhD) in a relevant field. Familiarity with project management tools, government contracting processes, and technical proposal evaluation is typically required. Strategic vision, strong communication, and the ability to inspire and coordinate multidisciplinary teams are standout soft skills. These abilities are crucial for successfully designing, launching, and managing high-impact, innovative research programs that address complex national challenges.

What is the average salary for DARPA?

DARPA program positions typically offer salaries comparable to federal government pay scales, with GS-13 to GS-15 levels, ranging from approximately $80,000 to over $150,000 annually depending on experience and qualifications. These roles often require security clearances and specialized technical skills in research and development.

What is a DARPA Program?

A DARPA Program refers to a research and development initiative managed by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), a branch of the U.S. Department of Defense. These programs are designed to create breakthrough technologies and capabilities for national security, often focusing on high-risk, high-reward innovations. DARPA Programs span a wide range of fields, such as artificial intelligence, robotics, cybersecurity, biotechnology, and advanced materials. Each program is typically led by a program manager and aims to transition successful technologies to military or commercial use. Participation often involves collaboration among universities, private companies, and government labs.

How hard is it to get a job at DARPA?

Getting a job at DARPA is highly competitive due to its specialized research focus and security requirements. Candidates typically need advanced degrees, relevant technical expertise, and security clearances, with the hiring process involving multiple interviews and background checks.

What is DARPA currently working on?

DARPA, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, focuses on developing emerging technologies for national security. Currently, it is working on projects related to artificial intelligence, quantum computing, autonomous systems, and advanced materials to maintain technological superiority. These efforts often involve collaboration with industry and academia and require specialized security clearances.

What are some typical challenges faced when working on a DARPA program team?

Working on a DARPA program team often involves tackling highly ambitious technical goals with tight deadlines and evolving requirements. Team members must be adaptable, as projects may pivot based on research findings or shifting priorities. Collaboration is key, as teams are typically multidisciplinary and may include external partners from academia, industry, and government. Successfully managing these dynamics while maintaining innovation and compliance with security protocols is a common challenge.

What is the difference between Darpa Program vs Research Scientist?

AspectDarpa ProgramResearch Scientist
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees in science or engineering, often with security clearancesRequires at least a master's degree, often a Ph.D., in a relevant scientific or technical field
Work EnvironmentGovernment-funded projects, often in labs or specialized facilities, with a focus on innovation and defense applicationsAcademic, industrial, or government labs; conducting experiments, data analysis, and publishing research
Employer & IndustryU.S. Department of Defense, research agencies, and contractorsUniversities, research institutions, or corporate R&D departments

While Darpa Programs focus on funding and managing innovative defense research projects, Research Scientists conduct scientific investigations across various fields, often contributing to knowledge and technology development. Both roles require strong technical credentials, but Darpa Programs are more project and funding-oriented within the defense sector, whereas Research Scientists focus on scientific discovery and experimentation.

Can civilians work for DARPA?

Yes, civilians can work for DARPA, which employs scientists, engineers, and project managers in research and development roles. Applicants typically need relevant advanced degrees, security clearances, and specialized skills in technology or science fields. Positions are often posted on government job portals and require a competitive application process.
What are popular job titles related to Darpa Program jobs in Ohio? For Darpa Program jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Principal Signal Processing Researcher with Security Clearance

Principal Signal Processing Researcher with Security Clearance

STR

Dayton, OH โ€ข On-site

$206K - $284K/yr

Other

Posted 18 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop, test, integrate, and demonstrate novel signal processing, optimization, and machine learning algorithms for advanced electronic warfare and sensor applications.

  • Provide technical leadership to multi-disciplinary teams that develop, implement, test, and integrate novel sensing, electronic warfare, and signal processing systems.

  • Direct modeling and simulation activities of advanced RF systems in support of algorithm development, test, and integration.


Job description

About the Team: The Sensors Division at STR focuses on technology development for advanced sensor systems and platforms in support of national security requirements. Our particular focus areas include airborne/spaceborne/surface-based radar, electronic warfare, underwater acoustics, hyperspectral imaging, and EO/IR sensing. To support these missions, the Division's efforts span multiple technical areas, including RF analog/digital hardware, acoustic hardware, signal processing algorithms, machine learning algorithms, systems analysis, and real-time embedded processor implementation. The Algorithms, Processing and Experimentation (APEX) Group specializes in development of RF/radar modes, skills and applications, with particular emphasis on advanced signal processing chains and associated algorithm research. We mature these technologies with the objective of implementation, integration, and eventual utility in RF-based systems, typically tailoring our work for highly specific Defense (e.g., Air Force, Space Force, Navy, DARPA, etc.) and Intelligence Community needs. About the Role: As a Principal Signal Processing Researcher, you will create and lead technical teams that develop, test, integrate, and demonstrate novel signal processing, optimization, and machine learning algorithms for advanced electronic warfare and sensor applications. A successful candidate will have demonstrated leadership skills and substantial expertise in several of the following areas: optimization, electronic warfare, adaptive signal processing, machine learning, algorithm development, algorithm integration, test & evaluation, model & simulation, systems engineering, radar systems, or communications systems. This position requires skills working as part of and leading multi-disciplinary teams designing, analyzing, integrating, and demonstrating signal processing algorithms for complex systems. What you will do: * Develop electronic warfare and radar system concepts, signal processing and machine learning algorithms, and RF solutions to remote sensing challenges * Provide technical leadership to small, multi-disciplinary teams that develop, implement, test, and integrate novel sensing, electronic warfare, and signal processing systems * Direct Modeling and Simulation activities of advanced RF systems in support of algorithm development, test, and integration * Plan and support algorithm test and evaluation activities, including performance assessment in laboratory and field environments * Clearly communicate with customers, stakeholders, sponsors, prime- and subcontractors Who you are: * Active Security Clearance, with eligibility to support special access programs, for which US Citizenship is required by the US government * PhD, MS, or BS in Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or related technical discipline with 8-10+ years of relevant experience depending on degree * Strong scientific programming skills including Matlab, Python, Simulink and/or C/C++ * Strong communication skills and the ability to describe complex technical concepts to fellow researchers as well as to non-technical people * Ability to translate customer requirements to determine research focus * Ability to create and present deep technical briefings as well as high-level briefings to Customers and senior management * Experience with designing, implementing, testing, and analyzing ML/AI algorithms * Strong understanding of radar architectures, waveforms, modes, and RF signal chains Even Better: * Current TS/SSBI with SCI and ability to gain and hold SCI/SAP accreditations * Experience with advanced RF system concepts, signal processing, open architectures, and systems integration * Experience in Software Development * Ability to survey literature to determine state-of-the-art, incorporate recent research, and transition it into integrated, tested solutions * Understanding and experience interacting with decision-makers and customers to translate mission needs into an end-to-end, integrated analytical solution Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $206,000 - $284,000 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. STR is a growing technology company with locations near Boston, MA, Arlington, VA, near Dayton, OH, Melbourne, FL, and Carlsbad, CA. We specialize in advanced research and development for defense, intelligence, and national security in: cyber; next generation sensors, radar, sonar, communications, and electronic warfare; and artificial intelligence algorithms and analytics to make sense of the complexity that is exploding around us. STR is committed to creating a collaborative learning environment that supports deep technical understanding and recognizes the contributions and achievements of all team members. Our work is challenging, and we go home at night knowing that we pushed the envelope of technology and made the world safer. STR is not just any company. Our people, culture, and attitude along with their unique set of skills, experiences, and perspectives put us on a trajectory to change the world. We can't do it alone, though - we need fellow trailblazers. If you are one, join our team and help to keep our society safe! Visit us at www.str.us for more info. 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 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. Create a Job Alert Interested in building your career at STR? Get future opportunities sent straight to your email. Create alert