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Radar Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree in STEM * 12+ years of experience in DoD systems engineering * Proven experience with Navy's surface radar, and/or combat systems design and certification processes * DoD Secret ...

The technician will aid the engineering team in the prototyping, design, and testing of solid-state radar systems, as well as traveling to the field to install and diagnose issues with new product ...

The technician will aid the engineering team in the prototyping, design, and testing of solid-state radar systems, as well as traveling to the field to install and diagnose issues with new product ...

The technician will aid the engineering team in the prototyping, design, and testing of solid-state radar systems, as well as traveling to the field to install and diagnose issues with new product ...

Showing results 41-60

Radar Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$76.3K

$79.8K

$82.3K

How much do radar engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for radar engineer in Virginia is $79,809.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,300.00 and $81,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a radar engineer do?

A radar engineer works to design, enhance, or test the accuracy of radar systems. In this career, your duties vary depending on the industry. You may develop radar for weather forecast or tracking purposes, or you could work for the military or a private company in the defense industry. Regardless of your employer, your responsibilities as a radar engineer focus on the technical aspects of a radar system, such as testing of sensor instrument devices or the creation of an algorithm to continuously ensure accuracy and give users control of how they view the system’s data.

What does a radar engineer do?

A Radar Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains radar systems used for detecting and tracking objects such as aircraft, ships, or weather formations. They work with both hardware and software components to ensure radar systems function accurately and reliably. Their responsibilities often include signal processing, system integration, and troubleshooting technical issues. Radar Engineers are employed in industries such as defense, aerospace, meteorology, and automotive safety systems.

How much would a radar engineer make?

Radar engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $70,000 to over $130,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced skills in signal processing, systems design, and security clearances can lead to higher compensation.

What are some typical challenges radar engineers face when working on new radar system designs?

Radar Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing performance requirements with size, weight, and power constraints, especially when designing systems for aerospace or defense applications. Integrating the latest signal processing techniques while ensuring system reliability and meeting strict regulatory standards can also be complex. Additionally, Radar Engineers regularly collaborate with multidisciplinary teams—including software developers, hardware engineers, and project managers—to troubleshoot issues and implement innovative solutions throughout the development cycle.

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

To thrive as a Radar Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, signal processing, and electromagnetics, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with simulation software (like MATLAB or CST), hardware testing tools, and industry-specific certifications such as those from IEEE are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective teamwork distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are crucial for designing, optimizing, and troubleshooting radar systems that meet stringent performance and safety standards.

What is the difference between Radar Engineer vs RF Engineer?

AspectRadar EngineerRF Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Electrical Engineering, specialized training in radar systemsBachelor's or higher in Electrical or Electronics Engineering, RF design certifications
Work EnvironmentDefense, aerospace, military, or research labsTelecommunications, wireless, consumer electronics industries
Industry UsageDesign and development of radar systems and sensorsDesign and testing of radio frequency components and systems

Radar Engineers focus on designing and developing radar systems used in defense, aerospace, and research. RF Engineers work on radio frequency components for wireless and communication devices. While both roles require knowledge of RF principles, Radar Engineers specialize in radar-specific technologies, whereas RF Engineers have a broader focus on RF systems across various industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of Radar Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Radar Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Radar Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Radar Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Radar Engineer jobs in VA?

For Radar Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Radar Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,809 per year, or $38.4 per hour.

Radar Payload Systems Engineer

KBR, Inc.

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

142nd of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Title:
Radar Payload Systems Engineer
Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR!
KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the intelligence and national security communities. In this position, your work will have a profound impact on the country's most critical role - protecting our national security.
Why Join Us?
  • Innovative Projects: KBR's work is at the forefront of engineering, logistics, operations, science, program management, mission IT and cybersecurity solutions.
  • Collaborative Environment: Be part of a dynamic team that thrives on collaboration and innovation, fostering a supportive and intellectually stimulating workplace.
  • Impactful Work: Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national security and shape the future of space defense.

Position Summary:
KBR National Security Solutions is seeking a motivated and talented Senior Radar Payload Systems Engineer to join our team in Chantilly, Virginia. The selected candidate for this position will contribute to the design, development, implementation, integration, testing and delivery of radar hardware, software, and systems solutions for Government contracts.
Responsibilities
  • Radar Hardware Development: Define and document the RF front-end electronics and architecture of an advanced space-based SAR radar system, including the antenna arrays, receivers, and digital electronics.
  • Engineering Tasks: Perform engineering tasks to develop systems capable of meeting operational requirements within imposed constraints.
  • Acquisition Modeling Support: Perform rigorous link-budget modeling and analysis and conduct trade studies for hardware components to ensure mission success.
  • Algorithm Development. Support algorithm and analytical development using a variety of scientific programming languages (e.g., Python, MATLAB, etc.) to process synthetic aperture radar data (SAR) and Moving Target Indicator (MTI).
  • Test Data Assessments: Analyze and assess integration and test data at the component, subsystem, payload, and space vehicle segments to identify and resolve issues with hardware design and manufacturing.
  • V&V Processes: Assess the verification and validation of system vendor testing at all levels to ensure the radar system meets its requirements.
  • Vendor Performance Monitoring: Monitor the system provider's performance in designing, documenting, and verifying all interfaces within the system.
  • Functional Analyses: Perform functional analyses to ensure systems meet performance criteria.
  • Operations and Procedures: Formulate, recommend, and direct operations and procedures to resolve engineering and/or technical problems.
  • Conduct Studies: Conduct special studies and investigations related to projects.
  • Technical Assistance: Provide technical assistance and instruction related to design problems.
  • Project Requirements Analysis: Analyze project requirements and provide information and instruction for designing, operating, maintaining, and modifying systems.
  • Solutions Integration: Ensure that solutions can be integrated into viable, complete systems.
  • General: Perform all other duties as assigned.

Work Environment
  • Location: On-Site
  • Travel Requirements: Moderate (20% to 50%) travel to contractor facilities, test sites, or launch locations.
  • Working Hours: Flexible. Standard Government work hour support and surge support during integration and launch phases.

Required Qualifications:
  • Clearance: Active TS/SCI clearance (with current polygraph).
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in engineering, applied physics, or a related STEM technical discipline. Specific contract requirements regarding education and experience will prevail.
  • Relevant Radar Hardware Experience: Demonstrated 8+ years of experience supporting radar space system hardware development, integration, and test.
  • Remote Sensing Knowledge: Knowledge of remote sensing technologies including active and passive sensor systems which operate in the RF regime, and the concepts, signal and image processing algorithms and software architectures that enable these systems.
  • Prototyping Experience: Engineering software (prototyping) experience in MATLAB and/or Python.
  • Established Client Relationship Skills: Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain trusted client relationships.
  • Government Contracting Understanding: Knowledge of U.S. Government contracting and federal acquisition regulations, spacecraft lifecycle milestones and review processes, and success in operating within this environment.
  • System Test: Hands-on experience with radar payload systems, interfaces, and Assembly, Integration and Test (AI&T) activities.
  • Business Management Tools Proficiency: Ability to work with standard business management tools and financial systems, MS Office, and project management software.
  • Work-style Flexibility: Ability to work in a team environment as well as independently.
  • Communication Skills: Strong oral and written communication skills with demonstrated ability to communicate technical issues clearly to senior Government leadership.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Education: Master's or Ph.D. degree in a related STEM technical discipline. Radar focus in this degree is highly preferred.
  • Relevant Radar Hardware Experience: Demonstrated 10+ years of experience supporting radar space system hardware development, integration, and test is preferred.
  • Breadth of Experience: Experience working across multiple satellite programs or production lines is preferred.

Ready to Make a Difference?
If you're excited about making a significant impact in the field of space defense and working on projects that matter, we encourage you to apply and join our team at KBR. Let's shape the future together.
KBR Benefits
KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.
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.
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.

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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