ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Phd Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

KBR

Radar Research Engineer

Chantilly, VA

Pursuing Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Physical Sciences, Computer Science, Engineering, or Mathematics * Highly preferred: Master's or PhD * Experience: 15+ years * Very comfortable with MATLAB, C ...

VTG

DevOps Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$180K - $230K/yr

... s Engineer to join a diverse development team at our Herndon, VA, office. The candidate will ... PhD with 4 years of relevant experience; an additional 4 years of experience may be considered in ...

VTG

Space Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$100K - $195K/yr

PhD or JD and four (4) years or more experience * Experience with USG program management and ... Master's degree in engineering, physics, or related discipline. * 12+ years of relevant experience ...

DCS Corp

Quantum Engineer SME

Springfield, VA · On-site

$86K - $114K/yr

The Quantum Engineer SME will provide expert guidance on quantum computing technologies and deliver ... PHD in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related discipline with 10+ years; or a Masters ...

DCS Corporation

Quantum Engineer SME

Springfield, VA · On-site

$86K - $115K/yr

The Quantum Engineer SME will provide expert guidance on quantum computing technologies and deliver ... PHD in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related discipline with 10+ years; or a Masters ...

DCS Corporation

Quantum Engineer SME

Springfield, VA · On-site

$86K - $115K/yr

The Quantum Engineer SME will provide expert guidance on quantum computing technologies and deliver ... PHD in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related discipline with 10+ years; or a Masters ...

Northrop Grumman

Mechanical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Northrop Grumman is seeking a Mechanical Engineer / Principal Mechanical Engineer to join Mission ... Minimum of 0 Years experience with PhD Willing and able to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI Security ...

DCS CORPORATION

Quantum Engineer SME

Springfield, VA · On-site

$86K - $115K/yr

The Quantum Engineer SME will provide expert guidance on quantum computing technologies and deliver ... PHD in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related discipline with 10+ years; or a Masters ...

General Atomics

Mechanical Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience as follows; six or ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsPhd Engineer JobsPhd Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Phd Engineer information

What is a PhD engineer?

A PhD Engineer is an individual who has completed a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in an engineering discipline. This advanced degree signifies deep expertise in a specialized area of engineering, often involving original research and the completion of a dissertation. PhD Engineers typically work in academia, research and development, or advanced industry roles where they contribute to scientific innovation and technological advancements. Their work often includes conducting research, publishing scholarly articles, and mentoring students or junior engineers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD engineer?

To thrive as a PhD Engineer, you need advanced expertise in engineering principles, research methodology, and problem-solving, typically supported by a doctoral degree in an engineering discipline. Familiarity with specialized technical tools, modeling software, data analysis platforms, and sometimes professional certifications are commonly required. Exceptional analytical thinking, innovation, and strong communication skills set top PhD Engineers apart in collaborative and research-driven environments. These competencies are vital for driving technological advancements, publishing impactful research, and leading complex engineering projects.

What are the typical career advancement opportunities for a PhD engineer in an industrial setting?

PhD Engineers in industry often start in research and development roles, where they apply their advanced technical expertise to solve complex problems. Over time, they may progress into senior scientist or technical lead positions, and can also transition into management roles such as R&D manager or director. Career growth is often driven by demonstrated innovation, successful project leadership, and strong collaboration skills. Additionally, PhD Engineers frequently have opportunities to shape company strategy, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to patent portfolios.

What is the difference between Phd Engineer vs Research Scientist?

AspectPhd EngineerResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in Engineering or related fieldPhD in relevant scientific discipline
Work EnvironmentIndustry labs, R&D departments, manufacturingAcademic labs, research institutions, industry R&D
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, manufacturing firms, engineering firmsUniversities, government agencies, private research firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Phd Engineers and Research Scientists hold doctoral degrees and work in research-intensive environments. Phd Engineers typically focus on applied engineering projects within industry, while Research Scientists often work on fundamental scientific research in academic or government settings. The choice depends on whether you prefer industry application or scientific exploration.

Is a Phd engineer useful in engineering?

A PhD engineer brings advanced technical expertise, research skills, and problem-solving abilities to engineering projects. They are often involved in innovation, development, and complex analysis, making them valuable for specialized roles, research positions, and leadership in technical fields.

What jobs can I get with a Phd engineer?

A PhD in engineering qualifies individuals for advanced roles such as research scientist, university professor, R&D engineer, or technical consultant. These positions often require strong analytical skills, expertise in specialized tools or software, and may involve project management or collaboration in innovative environments.

What are popular job titles related to Phd Engineer jobs in Virginia?

For Phd Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Phd Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Phd Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Phd Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Phd Engineer job openings:

Phd Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Radar Research Engineer

Chantilly, VA

KBR
IT Services • 10K+ employees
Learn more about KBRexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

141st of 454 rated engineering

Job description

Title:

Radar Research Engineer

KBR is looking for a Radar Research Engineer to join our team in Chantilly, Virginia. In this role, you will push the boundaries of Synthetic Aperture Radar and Moving Target Indication processing techniques.

Responsibilities:

  • Primarily, candidate conducts research SAR and MTI processing and algorithm development
  • Candidate provides technical analyses and support in developing and applying advanced methods, theories and research techniques on R&D through operational support projects.
  • Provide demonstrated skill in conceiving, planning and conducting research and analysis in difficult technological problem areas of considerable scope and complexity requiring unconventional or novel approaches and sophisticated research techniques.
  • Candidates will have demonstrated an ability to make decisions independently on research and development (R&D) engineering problems and methods, in resolving important questions, and planning and coordinating work.
  • Support algorithm and analytical development using a variety of scientific programming languages (for example C, C++, Python, FORTRAN and MATLAB) to process synthetic aperture radar data (SAR) and Moving Target Indicator (MTI). Work independently and as a member of a project team to provide remote sensing and geospatial expertise in response to technical requests for information from DoD and Intelligence Community analysts.
  • Support ad hoc studies & analyses in an R&D environment.

Qualifications

  • Degree: Pursuing Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Physical Sciences, Computer Science, Engineering, or Mathematics
  • Highly preferred: Master's or PhD
  • Experience: 15+ years
  • Very comfortable with MATLAB, C, Python
  • Individual will have demonstrated experience in the use of advanced techniques, theories, precepts, and practices in a radar or signal processing discipline.

Clearance Requirements:

Clearance: TS/SCI security clearance

Preferred: Poly

Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR
At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.

KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

What KBR employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

KBR logo

About KBR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At KBR, we partner with government and industry clients to provide purposeful and comprehensive solutions with an emphasis on efficiency and safety. With a full portfolio of services, proprietary technologies and expertise, our employees are ready to handle projects and missions from planning and design to sustainability and maintenance. Whether at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space, our clients trust us to deliver the impossible on a daily basis.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1998

View All KBR Jobs

Apply