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Digital Signal Processing Engineer Jobs in Washington

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Digital Signal Processing Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$60.6K

$148.8K

$219.2K

How much do digital signal processing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for digital signal processing engineer in Washington is $148,765.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $122,900.00 and $167,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Digital Signal Processing Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Digital Signal Processing (DSP) Engineer, you need a strong background in mathematics, signal processing theory, and proficiency in programming languages like MATLAB, C/C++, or Python, often supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with DSP hardware, simulation tools, and platforms like FPGA or DSP processors is typically required, and certifications in embedded systems or signal processing are advantageous. Problem-solving ability, analytical thinking, and effective teamwork set candidates apart in this field. These skills are crucial for designing, implementing, and optimizing algorithms that process digital signals accurately and efficiently in various applications.

What is the difference between Digital Signal Processing Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectDigital Signal Processing EngineerElectrical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Signal Processing, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, tech companies, telecommunications firmsPower plants, manufacturing, electronics design
Industry UsageSignal processing, communications, audio/video techPower systems, electronics, control systems
Common Search IntentComparing roles in signal processing and electronicsBroader electrical engineering roles

The Digital Signal Processing Engineer specializes in designing algorithms and systems for processing digital signals, often within communications, audio, and video applications. Electrical Engineers have a broader scope, working on electrical systems, power, and electronics across various industries. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, their focus areas and work environments differ significantly.

What does a Digital Signal Processing Engineer do?

A Digital Signal Processing (DSP) Engineer designs, develops, and implements algorithms and systems that manipulate and analyze signals such as audio, video, and sensor data. They work on both hardware and software to improve signal quality, extract useful information, or compress data for efficient storage and transmission. DSP Engineers are essential in industries like telecommunications, audio engineering, medical imaging, and consumer electronics, where they help create products such as smartphones, hearing aids, and radar systems.

What are some common challenges Digital Signal Processing Engineers face when integrating new algorithms into existing systems?

Digital Signal Processing Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between new algorithms and legacy hardware or software, maintaining real-time processing requirements, and optimizing for limited computational resources. Debugging and validating algorithm performance under various signal conditions can also be complex, requiring collaboration with hardware engineers and extensive testing. Effective communication with cross-functional teams is essential to address integration issues and achieve system-wide functionality.
What job categories do people searching Digital Signal Processing Engineer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Digital Signal Processing Engineer jobs in Washington are:
Infographic showing various Digital Signal Processing Engineer job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $148,765 per year, or $71.5 per hour.
Signal Processing Engineer / Computer Scientist

Signal Processing Engineer / Computer Scientist

Envisioneering, Inc

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 hours ago


Job description

Job Title
Signal Processing Engineer / Computer Scientist
Location
Washington, DC 20375 US (Primary)
Job Type
Full-Time
Education
Bachelor's Degree
How much will you travel if the job requires it?
0 - 25%
Minimum Security Clearance Required
Secret
Job Description
Envisioneering, Inc. has an immediate opening for a full-time Signal Processing Engineer/Computer Scientist to support the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) in development of naval combat system Hardware Accelerated Threat Simulation (HATS) test beds. This position is an opportunity to join a team that offers innovative, exciting, and meaningful work linking military and civilian talents to achieve our mission and safeguard our freedoms. The Signal Processing Engineer/Computer Scientist is responsible for creating state-of-the-art algorithms for electronic support (ES), typically embedded in experimental real-time hardware systems. The work is performed primarily on-site at the NRL. We are seeking a candidate with strong communications skills and the ability to work in a collaborative team environment.
SUMMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Implement and test algorithms on embedded processors in support of developing advanced electronic warfare (EW) capabilities against radar and communication systems.
  • Implement signal processing on the suitable class of embedded processors ranging from relatively simple microprocessors to parallel processing using GPUs under the guidance of senior system and digital design engineers.
  • Implement algorithms using Matlab, Python, Java, and C++ on appropriate processing platforms.
  • Make enhancements to previously written software and develop new software as necessary to meet Research and Development project goals.
  • Develop analytic procedures and implement computer programs to perform data transport, signal processing, signal analysis and database manipulation.
  • Retrieve, store, and control data on Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), dynamic or static memory, Graphical Processing Units (GPUs), Digital Signal Processing (DSP) cards, or other embedded processors.
  • Determine how processing requirements are distributed between specialized microprocessors, FPGAs, single board computers, graphical processing units, or other embedded processors.
  • Develop Electronic Support Measure (ESM) software that operates in conjunction with ESM hardware. You will conduct laboratory and field-testing of ESM systems and techniques.
  • Develop research ideas and prepare briefing materials to present new Research and development concepts in order to solicit new projects.
  • Perform upgrades to existing ESM systems and be part of the design process for any new systems that are developed.
  • Investigate the potential for RF System on Chip (RFSoC) technology that is currently emerging as a viable approach to create more efficient ESM systems.
  • Write formal and informal reports and provide oral briefings to laboratory management and program sponsors.

Job Requirements
Minimum Skills/ Qualifications:
  • Five years of work experience in electromagnetic signal processing, particularly radar-related. Experience implementing signal processing algorithms on various platforms desired.
  • Knowledge of Radio Frequency (RF) signal behavior and/or digital hardware.
  • Knowledge and experience programming in Matlab, Python, and Java. Familiarity with C++, VHDL, and Verilog is desired.
  • Understanding of networking, including the details of socket interfaces and TCP and UDP networking protocols. You will interface with FPGAs.
  • Working knowledge of FPGAs, scripting language interfaces (VHDL and/or Verilog), and of tools related to the programming, utilization, and debugging of hardware/software interfaces.
  • Basic scientific, mathematical, and technical competence.
  • Demonstrated software engineering skills: reading code, designing, implementing, and validating new capabilities, working within a team environment, and effective writing.
  • Ability to understand mathematical and electrical engineering concepts at an undergraduate level.
  • Able to lift object up to 50 LBS.
  • Some travel may be required.
  • DoD Secret Clearance. Ability to obtain a Top Secret clearance after hiring.

Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, or Physics from an accredited college or university (minimum 3.0 GPA). Advanced degree is desired.

SALARY RANGE: $120,000.00 - $150,000.00
BENEFITS: Envisioneering, Inc. offers a stable work environment, a competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefits package including 401k, Medical/Dental/Vision, FSA, Short Term, Long Term, AD&D and Life insurance, (employer paid), voluntary life, Tuition Reimbursement, Paid Leave, Holidays and much more.
AS A CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT: You must pass a drug and pre-employment screening. U.S. Citizenship Required. *A Department of Defense (DoD) Secret security clearance is required at time of hire. Applicants selected will be subject to a U.S. Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Due to the nature of work performed within our facilities, U.S. citizenship is required. Please confirm in your cover letter or resume.
Envisioneering Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, creed, color, religion, alienage or national origin, ancestry, citizenship and immigration status, age, disability or handicap, sex (including pregnancy), marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, arrest record, hairstyle, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. Our management team is dedicated to this policy with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment. Envisioneering Inc. is committed to creating and maintaining a workplace in which all employees have an opportunity to participate and contribute to the success of the business and are valued for their skills, experience, and unique perspectives.