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Phd Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

STR

Senior DevOps Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$149K - $192K/yr

S. citizenship is a government requirement • BS, MS, or PhD in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with relevant experience depending on degree (BS +5 ...

General Atomics

Engineer VIII

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 ...

General Atomics

Engineer VIII

Herndon, VA · On-site

$140K - $252K/yr

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 ...

Noblis

Radar Engineer - Multiple Levels

Washington, DC · On-site

$138K - $264K/yr

PhD may be substituted for 3 years' experience * Compensation Range: $138,420 - $264,300 Mid-level * Minimum of 10 years' experience with a Bachelor of Science degree in an engineering discipline

STR

Senior DevOps Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$134K - $184K/yr

S. citizenship is a government requirement * BS, MS, or PhD in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with relevant experience depending on degree (BS +5 ...

General Atomics

Engineer V

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; nine or ...

General Atomics

Engineer VII

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; fifteen ...

General Atomics

Engineer V

Herndon, VA · On-site

$105K - $189K/yr

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; nine or ...

KBR, Inc.

Radar Research Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Pursuing Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Physical Sciences, Computer Science, Engineering, or Mathematics • Highly preferred: Master's or PhD • Experience: 10+ years • MATLAB, C, Python • ...

KBR, Inc.

Radar Research Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

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 ...

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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.

Is a PhD useful in engineering?

A PhD in engineering can be highly valuable for roles involving research, development, and advanced technical problem-solving. It demonstrates expertise, analytical skills, and the ability to conduct independent research, which are often required for specialized or leadership positions in engineering 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 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.

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

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

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

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

Phd Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

2027 PhD Graduate - Radar, Machine Learning, Signal Processing, Data Science

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 73 rated research

Job description

Description
Are you energized by the idea of shaping sensor technology that safeguards our nation at sea and on land? If so, we are looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.
We are seeking highly motivated PhD graduates in Electrical Engineering (EE), Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE), Physics, or a similar STEM technical degree, who are eager to dive into advanced Radio Frequency (RF), radar, and signal-processing research and grow into the next generation of technical leaders for the U.S. Navy and other Department of War (DoW) sponsors. You will work in areas including leading edge RF propagation, RF phenomenology, digital signal processing, new technology advanced sensor arrays/systems, wide-area-surveillance networks, currently fielded, and next generation systems.
Why Join Us
  • Mission-Driven Impact: Contribute directly to the development and fielding of next-generation Navy Radar/EO/IR, electronic-warfare, and land-based cruise-missile-defense sensor networks that protect service members against the world's toughest threats.
  • Cutting-Edge Innovation: Work with physics-based modeling and simulation (M&S), advanced data-analysis, and machine-learning techniques to create innovative sensor-performance tools.
  • Collaborative Culture: Join a highly motivated, interdisciplinary team of sensor engineers, RF-propagation and meteorology specialists, software developers, combat-system engineers, and physicists-all focused on solving complex, mission-critical problems.

Core Responsibilities
  • Analyze live tactical-sensor data with a cross-disciplinary team to deliver mission-driven solutions.
  • Identify and solve problems that impact mission requirements.
  • Build and apply M&S tools, data-analysis platforms, and machine-learning algorithms to large data sets; develop novel algorithms that solve real-world problems.
  • Develop and refine physics-based simulations that provide new insight into radar, EO/IR, and electronic-warfare system performance in realistic operational environments.
  • Develop novel instrumentation and algorithms for understanding RF propagation effects by directly measuring, recording, and analyzing RF signal measurements.
  • Identify emergent phenomenology, troubleshoot problems affecting sensor performance, and work with a broad network of experts-including prime contractors, government labs, RF-propagation and meteorology specialists, software developers, combat-system engineers, and physicists-to deliver integrated solutions.
  • Develop and apply skills in machine learning, signal processing, and data science techniques to unprecedented real-world challenges.
  • Develop and apply skills that advance the state of the art in our core technology areas: signal processing, electromagnetics, software development, and boundary-layer meteorology.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a PhD degree in EE, ECE, Physics, or a similar technical field, with a GPA above 3.5.
  • Some familiarity with Python, Matlab, or equivalent, or have had some exposure to modern development process (git, GitLab, Jira, or equivalent).
  • Have a strong foundational understanding of signal processing, and/or electromagnetic theory (e.g., antenna systems, microwave transmission, RF propagation).
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret/SCI level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Also have cross-discipline technical degrees, including minors, in EE, ECE, CS, Physics in addition to a PhD.
  • Have radar or RF research experience (hardware, antennas, remote sensing, tracking, etc.).
  • Have an understanding of, and interest in, application of machine learning and data science, to sensor related problems.
  • Have internship experience related to DoW research, DoW contractors, or the advanced-technology industry.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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