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Processing Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Signals Processing Engineer

Jessup, MD · On-site

$160K - $198K/yr

Worker Type Regular Summary The Signals Processing Engineer will design, develop, and implement advanced signal processing solutions to support cuttingedge RF, satellite communications, and ...

Signal Processing Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

The Electronic Warfare Divison at Leidos currently has an opening for a Signal Processing Engineer to support EW programs in Arlington, VA or San Diego, CA. As part of our team, you will focus on ...

Job#: 3032521 Signal Processing Engineer Location: Manassas, Virginia (Onsite) Employment Type: Contract Role Overview This position involves working in teams to develop embedded software in support ...

Signals Processing Engineer

Jessup, MD · On-site

$160K - $198K/yr

Worker Type Regular Summary The Signals Processing Engineer will design, develop, and implement advanced signal processing solutions to support cutting-edge RF, satellite communications, and software ...

The Electronic Warfare Divison at Leidos currently has an opening for a Signal Processing Engineer to support EW programs in Arlington, VA or San Diego, CA . As part of our team, you will focus on ...

Signal Processing Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

The Electronic Warfare Divison at Leidos currently has an opening for a Signal Processing Engineer to support EW programs in Arlington, VA or San Diego, CA . As part of our team, you will focus on ...

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Showing results 1-20

Processing Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$68K

$99.4K

$133.6K

How much do processing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for processing engineer in Washington is $99,373.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,900.00 and $120,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. High-level roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes professional certifications or advanced degrees.

What are some common challenges Processing Engineers face when optimizing manufacturing processes?

Processing Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing efficiency improvements with maintaining product quality, troubleshooting unexpected production issues, and adapting processes to new materials or technologies. They must work closely with cross-functional teams, including quality assurance and maintenance, to identify bottlenecks and implement solutions. Staying current with industry best practices and continuous improvement methodologies is essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Processing Engineer vs Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectProcessing EngineerManufacturing Engineer
Primary FocusOptimizing manufacturing processes and equipmentDesigning and improving manufacturing systems and workflows
Work EnvironmentFactories, production lines, process labsFactories, production facilities, plant floor
Common CertificationsSix Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, Process Engineering certificationsSix Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, Manufacturing Technology certifications
Industry UsageElectronics, chemical, semiconductor, automotiveAutomotive, aerospace, consumer goods, industrial equipment

Processing Engineers focus on refining and optimizing manufacturing processes and equipment, ensuring efficiency and quality. Manufacturing Engineers design and improve overall manufacturing systems and workflows to enhance production. While both roles work closely in manufacturing settings, Processing Engineers are more process-specific, whereas Manufacturing Engineers oversee broader system improvements.

What Is a Processing Engineer?

A processing engineer provides development insight and support to technicians. As a processing engineer, you may work alone or in a team to identify problems and solve manufacturing or equipment issues. Processing engineers train staff on equipment use and improve procedures for manufacturing. Qualifications to become a processing engineer include a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field and experience in the manufacturing industry.

What does a processing engineer do?

A processing engineer designs, develops, and optimizes manufacturing processes for materials or products, ensuring efficiency, quality, and safety. They often work with equipment, control systems, and process simulations, requiring knowledge of engineering principles and technical skills. Their role involves troubleshooting, process improvement, and maintaining compliance with industry standards.

Are process engineers paid well?

Process engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, location, and industry. According to industry data, the median annual salary for process engineers ranges from $70,000 to $100,000, with higher earnings possible for those with advanced skills or certifications in areas like process optimization or automation.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding managerial or executive positions, or possessing rare technical expertise and certifications.

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

A Processing Engineer needs a solid background in chemical, mechanical, or process engineering, often requiring a relevant degree and experience in process design or optimization. Familiarity with process simulation software such as Aspen HYSYS or MATLAB, and knowledge of industrial standards and safety certifications like Six Sigma or OSHA are typical. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help Processing Engineers collaborate with cross-functional teams and troubleshoot complex systems. These competencies are crucial for ensuring efficient, safe, and cost-effective production processes in manufacturing or industrial environments.
Infographic showing various Processing Engineer job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,373 per year, or $47.8 per hour.
Signal Processing Engineer

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 57 rated research


Job description

Description

Do you love applying your signal processing experience to solve complex problems in the RF domain, in particular, electronic warfare?

Are you willing to take chances with new and creative methods to solve the nations toughest challenges?

Do you want to work in an atmosphere where risk taking, innovation, and creativity are openly encouraged and sought out?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!

We are seeking a creative signal processing engineer to help us build innovative technology applications for the next generation of electronic warfare systems. Your work will contribute to ensuring the US and its allies dominate the RF spectrum. You'll be joining our hardworking team of system engineers, algorithm developers, FPGA and embedded software engineers, and advanced EW technology enthusiasts who enjoy working together to craft creative solutions to complex challenges. You will contribute to a variety of interesting projects in a team environment.

As a Signal Processing Engineer, you will ...

  • Develop novel concepts to defeat adversarial radar and communication systems; This work will involve a multitude of sub-disciplines in the signal processing field.
  • Study current and future radar systems and evaluate their performance.
  • Be involved in the end-to-end modeling and performance evaluation of new systems being designed.
  • Be involved in prototyping of new concepts.
  • Brief sponsors and internal APL staff.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you ...

  • Have earned a Master's degree in engineering, physics, or mathematics with a concentration in signal processing, or another related discipline.
  • Have at least five years of relevant experience related to signal processing design and analysis.
  • Have strong MATLAB or Python programming experience.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI level security 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 ...

  • Have earned a Ph.D. in signal processing, estimation theory or another related discipline.
  • Have at least ten years of experience in the signal processing field.
  • Have experience modeling electronic protection (EP) algorithms, seekers, angle estimation, digital arrays, space time adaptive processing, clutter, or trackers and C++ experience.
  • Have experience leading small technical teams and communicating with stakeholders.

#LI-AG1


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 http://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 Accommodations@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
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually