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Image Processing Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Image & Computer Vision AI Engineer

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

This role is execution-focused and suited for engineers with strong foundations in computer vision, image processing, and machine learning who want to apply their skills to real-world, mission-driven ...

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Image Processing Engineer information

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$5

$62

$89

How much do image processing engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for image processing engineer in Virginia is $62.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51.49 and $66.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Image Processing Engineer do?

An Image Processing Engineer designs, develops, and implements algorithms and systems to analyze, enhance, and manipulate digital images. They work on tasks such as image filtering, feature extraction, pattern recognition, and computer vision applications. Their work is used in a variety of fields including medical imaging, robotics, surveillance, and multimedia. They often use programming languages like Python or C++ and tools like OpenCV or MATLAB to solve complex image-related problems.

What is the difference between Image Processing Engineer vs Computer Vision Engineer?

AspectImage Processing EngineerComputer Vision Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields; knowledge of image processing algorithmsBachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; expertise in computer vision techniques
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, tech companies, imaging hardware firmsTech companies, autonomous vehicles, robotics, AI firms
Industry UsageFocus on image enhancement, filtering, and analysisFocus on object detection, scene understanding, and AI integration

While both roles involve working with visual data, Image Processing Engineers primarily focus on improving and analyzing images through algorithms, whereas Computer Vision Engineers develop systems that interpret and understand visual information for applications like autonomous vehicles and AI. The roles often overlap but differ in their core objectives and application areas.

What Does an Image Processing Engineer Do?

An image processing engineer assists with the entire life cycle of data classification algorithms and image processing for a company. Your responsibilities in this career are to analyze data, write reports, develop methods for feature extraction and classification, research basic to advanced image processing algorithms, give presentations, and create visual interpretations of data. Your duties also include working on target detection and tracking, video georeferencing, implementing an image processing system, enhancing new software, and enabling immersive augmented and virtual reality experiences. You also develop algorithms for real 3D images and accurate wireless tracking.

What are some common challenges Image Processing Engineers face when working on cross-functional teams?

Image Processing Engineers often collaborate with data scientists, software developers, and hardware engineers, which can present challenges in aligning technical requirements and timelines. One frequent hurdle is ensuring that image processing algorithms integrate seamlessly with broader system architectures, especially when resources or real-time performance constraints are involved. Clear communication and adaptability are key, as team members may have differing levels of understanding of image processing concepts. Building strong collaborative relationships and regularly sharing progress can help overcome these challenges and ensure project success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Image Processing Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Image Processing Engineer, you need a strong background in mathematics, computer vision, and programming (often with a degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or a related field). Familiarity with tools and libraries such as OpenCV, MATLAB, Python, and machine learning frameworks is typically expected, along with experience in image analysis algorithms. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and interpret complex results. These skills are crucial for developing robust image processing solutions that meet technical requirements and drive innovation in fields like healthcare, automotive, and security.
What are the most commonly searched types of Image Processing Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Image Processing Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Image Processing Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Image Processing Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Image Processing Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Image Processing Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Image Processing Engineer jobs in VA? For Image Processing Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Image Processing Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,054 per year, or $62 per hour.
SAR Signal and Image Processing Engineer

SAR Signal and Image Processing Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation

Chantilly, VA โ€ข On-site

$129K - $193K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.
At the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country's space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration. With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions. Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD!
The Radar Processing and Analysis Department is based in Chantilly, VA. We specialize in SAR image formation processing, SAR system performance modeling and analysis, moving target detection and tracking, maritime surveillance techniques, electronic warfare applications, complex data processor development, and advanced processing algorithms. Many of our projects are done in collaboration with the Radar and Signal Systems Department, our MPD counterpart in El Segundo, CA. We are looking for experienced SAR Signal & Image Processing Engineers to grow our department of highly skilled technical specialists. Join us today to become part of a culture and legacy of engineering innovation, technical excellence, and ground-breaking contributions to our nation's defense and intelligence capabilities!
The selected candidate will be required to work full time on-site at our facility at Chantilly, VA
What You'll Be Doing
  • Develop and advance signal and image processing techniques to exploit the full value of SAR complex phase history data
  • Create and evolve SAR data processors to improve product quality and investigate innovative applications of advanced radar algorithms.
  • Evaluate SAR data utility for high-resolution radar imagery, MTI, maritime search and surveillance, and electronic protection applications.
  • Model and analyze the performance of SAR payload concepts, designs, prototypes, and flight hardware to support the government customers' research and technology, program planning, acquisition, and operations activities.
  • Lead technical teams of early and mid-career engineers to accomplish complex engineering tasks
  • Serve as a technical representative to customers for one or more large, multi-phase projects

What You Need to be Successful - Engineering Specialist
Minimum Requirements:
  • Advanced degree from an accredited program in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Geophysics or related technical discipline and 6 or more years of relevant experience OR
  • Undergraduate degree from an accredited program in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Geophysics or related technical discipline and 8 or more years of relevant experience
  • Strong background in advanced mathematics including Fourier transforms, differential equations, and estimation theory
  • Experience with modeling and simulation of complex SAR or radar system performance.
  • Proven experience as an integration leader and coordinator of technical teams
  • This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

How You Can Stand Out
It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:
  • Current and active Top Secret/SCI security clearance
  • PhD from an accredited program in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Geophysics, Imaging Sciences or related technical discipline
  • Experience with SAR for MTI detection and tracking applications
  • Familiarity with design and development of space qualified SAR antennas, payloads, or sensors
  • Demonstrated success as a technical representative to a government customer

We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.
(Min - Max)
$129,000.00 - $193,500.00
Pay Basis: Annual
Leadership Competencies
Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:
  • Operate Strategically
  • Lead Change
  • Engage with Impact
  • Foster Innovation
  • Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees
During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.
Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:
  • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
  • Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
  • Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
  • 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
  • Relocation assistance
  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
  • Education assistance programs
  • An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.
Equal Opportunity Commitment
The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.