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Radar Research Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KBR, Inc.

Radar Research Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Title: Radar Research Engineer KBR is looking for a Radar Research Engineer to join our team in ... Support algorithm and analytical development using a variety of scientific programming languages ...

KBR

Radar Research Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Title: Radar Research Engineer KBR is looking for a Radar Research Engineer to join our team in ... Support algorithm and analytical development using a variety of scientific programming languages ...

The Aerospace Corporation

The Imagery Programs Division (IPD) is looking for a Radar Research and Development Scientist ( Senior Project Engineer - Signal & Image Process Engineering ) to work on advanced RADAR programs for ...

The Aerospace Corporation

The Imagery Programs Division (IPD) is looking for a Radar Research and Development Scientist ( Senior Project Engineer - Signal & Image Process Engineering ) to work on advanced RADAR programs for ...

Digital Harbor Foundation

Research Scientist

Baltimore, MD · Remote

$120K - $150K/yr

We aim to fund and accelerate existing research by increasing investments in Antarctic science as ... Experience with remote sensing datasets, specifically satellite radar, altimetry, and optical ...

Talanto

Senior Advanced Research Scientist

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$190K - $252K/yr

ABOUT THE TEAM Anduril's Research Scientists excel at developing state-of-the-art algorithms and ... Experience with either radar signal processing or image processing. * Experience inGPU programming ...

Waymo

Senior Research Scientist, Perception

Kirkland, WA · On-site +1

$112K - $142K/yr

Senior Research Scientist, Perception Waymo is an autonomous driving technology company with the ... Design and implement Perception Modeling solutions to understand LiDAR/Camera/Radar information ...

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Radar Research Scientist information

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$50.5K

$130.1K

$174K

How much do radar research scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for radar research scientist in the United States is $130,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a radar research scientist?

Radar Research Scientists are professionals who study, design, and improve radar systems used for detecting and tracking objects. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and develop new technologies to enhance radar performance in areas such as defense, weather forecasting, aviation, and automotive safety. Their work often involves collaborating with engineers and using advanced mathematical models and simulations. Radar Research Scientists typically have backgrounds in physics, electrical engineering, or related fields, and may work in academia, government, or industry settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a radar research scientist?

To thrive as a Radar Research Scientist, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, physics, or a related field, often supported by an advanced degree and experience in signal processing. Familiarity with simulation tools like MATLAB, programming languages such as Python or C++, and knowledge of radar system design and analysis are typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and presenting research findings. These competencies ensure the development of innovative radar technologies and the successful execution of complex research projects.

What are some common challenges radar research scientists face when developing new radar technologies?

Radar Research Scientists often encounter challenges such as integrating advanced signal processing algorithms with hardware limitations, minimizing interference and false alarms in complex environments, and ensuring system performance under varying weather or terrain conditions. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including software engineers, hardware designers, and data analysts—is crucial to address these obstacles. Staying current with rapid technological advancements and adhering to regulatory requirements can also be demanding, but overcoming these hurdles leads to innovative solutions and career growth opportunities.

What is the difference between Radar Research Scientist vs Radar Engineer?

AspectRadar Research ScientistRadar Engineer
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, government agenciesDesign, develop, and test radar systems in industry or defense companies
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, government research labs, academiaDefense contractors, aerospace companies, telecommunications
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on research and development of radar technologyFocuses on practical implementation and system integration

Radar Research Scientists primarily focus on developing new radar technologies through research and experimentation, often working in labs or academic settings. Radar Engineers, on the other hand, apply existing radar principles to design and implement operational systems in industry or defense sectors. While both roles require a strong background in electrical engineering and radar principles, their work environments and objectives differ significantly.

Are research scientists in high demand?

Research scientists, including those specializing in radar technology, are in high demand due to ongoing advancements in defense, aerospace, and remote sensing industries. Skills in data analysis, programming, and specialized equipment increase employability, and positions often require advanced degrees and security clearances. The field is expected to grow as technological innovation continues to expand applications for research scientists.

Are research scientists paid well?

Research scientists, including those specializing in radar or related fields, typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, and industry. In specialized areas like radar research, salaries often reflect technical skills, advanced degrees, and security clearances, with many positions offering above-average compensation compared to other scientific roles.

Who are the top companies hiring for Radar Research Scientist jobs?

The top employers for Radar Research Scientist jobs are:

What are popular job titles related to Radar Research Scientist jobs?

For Radar Research Scientist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Radar Research Scientist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,117 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Radar Research Engineer

Chantilly, VA • On-site

KBR, Inc.
IT Services • 10K+ employees
Learn more about KBR, Inc.external

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

KBR rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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.

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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

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