Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Florida

Job Title: Software Engineer - Digital Signal Processing (DSP)

Job Description

This role focuses on the design, analysis, and validation of advanced digital signal processing algorithms, primarily using MATLAB, with implementation support in C and C++ for embedded systems. You will work across the full development lifecycle, from interpreting requirements and designing algorithms through testing, validation, and documentation. The position requires strong signal analysis skills, a solid embedded software background, and the ability to clearly communicate complex technical concepts to internal teams and customers.

Responsibilities

• Perform full lifecycle software development with a strong emphasis on signal processing algorithm design, analysis, and validation.

• Develop, analyze, and prototype DSP algorithms primarily in MATLAB for a variety of signal processing applications.

• Support the implementation and optimization of signal processing algorithms in C and C++ for embedded and performance-critical environments.

• Apply techniques such as matched filtering, CFAR, Doppler processing, Kalman filtering, FFT-based analysis, Cross Ambiguity Function, I/Q data processing, noise floor analysis, and geolocation in algorithm development.

• Review and interpret customer requirements, translating them into signal processing approaches, software designs, and clear technical documentation.

• Develop and execute test plans and procedures to validate signal processing performance, functionality, and robustness.

• Evaluate test data, perform algorithm validation and performance analysis, and refine algorithms based on results.

• Debug, troubleshoot, and resolve software and algorithm issues to ensure compliance with functional specifications and performance targets.

• Collaborate closely with hardware and embedded software engineers to support integration of algorithms with electronic components, boards, and firmware.

• Participate in design and code reviews, address defects, and follow established development and configuration management processes.

• Work under technical leadership while demonstrating initiative, ownership, and self-direction in daily tasks and long-term projects.

• Contribute to proposal and planning efforts by helping define technical tasks, estimating effort, and identifying risks when needed.

• Present and explain signal processing concepts, software designs, and results to internal teams and customers in a clear and concise manner.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering, computer science, or related technical discipline.

• 5+ years of professional software development experience.

• Strong experience in digital signal processing (DSP) and signal analysis.

• Proficiency with MATLAB for signal processing algorithm development, analysis, and prototyping.

• Experience with C and C++ for software development, particularly in embedded or performance-critical environments.

• Hands-on experience with Linux in a software development context.

• Ability to interpret requirements and translate them into robust algorithm and software designs.

• Strong debugging and problem-solving skills for both software and algorithmic issues.

• Effective written and verbal communication skills to explain technical approaches and results to technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• 2+ years of programming experience with embedded C/C++ and Python.

• Experience writing automated test scripts to validate software and algorithms.

• Proficiency with scripting languages such as Python for data analysis, test automation, or tooling.

• Familiarity with the Atlassian tool suite and related add-ons, including Git and Confluence, for version control and collaboration.

• Experience working within an Agile software development process.

• Understanding of hardware-software compatibility matrix processes and considerations.

• background or interest in working with equipment used in defense or military-related installations.

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Defense Secret-level security clearance; an active DoD Interim Secret or Secret clearance is preferred.

• Interest in seeing products progress from initial design through manufacturing and deployment.

• Comfort working under technical leadership while contributing ideas and taking ownership of assigned tasks.

Work Environment

The work centers on advanced space communication devices and other mission-critical systems, including projects on naval contracts and programs with major defense contractors. The team currently works 100% onsite due to the sensitive nature of the work and the need for close collaboration with hardware, manufacturing, and test functions. The office environment is primarily cubicle-based, with manufacturing and lab areas located in the same facility, allowing engineers to see their designs move into production. The organization is stable and growing, with multiple recent contract awards and a move into a brand-new facility. The culture blends highly collaborative, social team members who enjoy spending time together outside of work with colleagues who are more family-focused, creating an environment where different working and social styles are respected. You will work with Linux-based development environments, embedded systems, and DSP-focused toolchains such as MATLAB, C/C++, and Python, alongside modern software development and collaboration tools.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Melbourne, FL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $35.00 - $80.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - Medical, dental & vision - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital - 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available - Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) - Short and long-term disability - Health Spending Account (HSA) - Transportation benefits - Employee Assistance Program - Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Melbourne,FL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 9, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

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