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Radar Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

KBR

Radar SME

Chantilly, VA · On-site

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 ...

KBR, Inc.

Radar SME

Chantilly, VA · On-site

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 ...

KBR

Radar SME with Security Clearance

Chantilly, VA · On-site

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 ...

SAIC

Radar Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$120K - $160K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a Radar Systems Engineer to provide onsite systems engineering and technical advisory (SETA) services in support of an SAIC Prime Program at the National ...

i3

Radar Systems Engineer

Washington, DC

$127K - $250K/yr

Overview i3 is seeking an experienced Radar Systems Engineer to design, develop, and optimize advanced radar systems for defense applications. The successful candidate will work on cutting-edge radar ...

SAIC

Radar Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

As a Radar Systems Engineer you will serve as a technical advisor supporting end-to-end system development for radar-enabled space systems, mission processing chains, and GEOINT exploitation ...

SAIC

Radar System Design Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$160K - $200K/yr

The Radar System Design Engineer will support advanced space-based ISR and ground radar mission systems by performing radar architecture definition, system-level design, and radar signal processing ...

SAIC

Radar Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

As a Radar Systems Engineer you will serve as a technical advisor supporting end-to-end system development for radar-enabled space systems, mission processing chains, and GEOINT exploitation ...

SAIC

Radar System Design Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

The Radar System Design Engineer will support advanced space-based ISR and ground radar mission systems by performing radar architecture definition, system-level design, and radar signal processing ...

SAIC

Radar System Design Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

The Radar System Design Engineer will support advanced space-based ISR and ground radar mission systems by performing radar architecture definition, system-level design, and radar signal processing ...

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All JobsRadar Engineer JobsRadar Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Radar Engineer information

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$87.2K

$91.1K

$94K

How much do radar engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for radar engineer in Washington, DC is $91,140.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,400.00 and $92,800.00 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.

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.

How much would a radar engineer make?

Radar engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000 to $130,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in signal processing or systems integration can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000 annually.
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Radar Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Radar Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,140 per year, or $43.8 per hour.

Radar System Engineer - Maritime and Next-Generation Radars

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 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 74 rated research

Job description

Description
Are you interested in playing a critical role in fielding the US Navy's next-generation family of radars? Are you interested in developing new capabilities for legacy Navy radars? Do you enjoy working in a creative environment with an integrated team of highly motivated radar engineers, scientists, and software developers? If so, we are looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.
The Sensor Algorithms and Analysis Group is seeking a Radar System Engineer to help field the next generation of Advanced Surface Navy radars and to expand the capabilities of existing Surface Navy radars. You will help identify problems that impact mission requirements and will have the opportunity to propose novel solutions and algorithms that improve performance. You will also study and perform detailed analysis on advanced radar performance using high-fidelity physics-based simulations. This work often extends into systems engineering tasking that involves integration of radar, combat system, and missile simulations.
As a Radar System Engineer, you will...
  • Creatively apply your technical skills to identify and solve problems
  • Apply signal and data processing tools, and disciplines including machine learning and optimization, to large data sets
  • Perform detailed, deep-dive analysis to root-cause performance observations and drive design
  • Work as part of a team of radar system engineers, analysts, scientists, and software developers
  • Collaborate with combat system and missile engineers in systems engineering tasking
  • Present analysis both internally and to sponsors and prime contractors to advise and guide program direction
  • Grow your radar knowledge under the tutelage of radar subject matter experts

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you have a...
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or equivalent technical degree
  • At least 1 year of engineering-related experience
  • Enthusiasm for and interest in to gaining an understanding of radars and/or physics-based phenomena affecting radar or communications systems
  • Familiarity with Matlab, Python, or similar mathematical analysis tools
  • Good interpersonal and communication skills
  • Willingness to travel up to 5% of the time if needed
  • 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 have a...
  • Master's or Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or equivalent technical field
  • 3+ years of professional experience in radar, aerospace, RF, hypersonics, or other technical-related systems engineering domain
  • Strong background in Matlab, Python, or similar mathematical analysis tools
  • Leadership experience or interest in assuming leadership roles
  • Experience with advanced DoD radars and combat systems
  • Top Secret/SCI clearance

#LI-KW1
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
$85,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$195,000 Annually

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