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Radar Systems Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

You can expect to work on a variety of radar development and integration documents and tasks. * Lead and act on behalf of the program's Working Group Leads ensuring the appropriate Systems ...

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum Clearance ... 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 development. This role aligns with the requirement for Radar system design or radar signal ...

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum Clearance ... The Radar System Design Engineer will support advanced space-based ISR and ground radar mission ...

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Radar Systems information

See Virginia salary details

$51.6K

$128.7K

$168K

How much do radar systems jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for radar systems in Virginia is $128,674.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,000.00 and $147,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes 500,000 a year?

Senior radar systems engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in defense or aerospace industries. High-level positions often involve managing complex projects, working with specialized tools, and requiring a deep understanding of radar technology and systems integration.

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

To excel as a Radar Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, signal processing, and radar theory, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with simulation tools like MATLAB, hardware design platforms, and knowledge of industry standards or security clearances are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you collaborate and innovate in multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing, testing, and maintaining reliable radar systems that meet rigorous performance and safety standards.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in radar systems, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in radar systems often encounter challenges such as managing complex signal processing tasks, staying updated with rapidly evolving technology, and ensuring seamless integration with other electronic systems. Addressing these challenges typically involves continuous learning, collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams, and leveraging simulation tools to troubleshoot and optimize designs. Developing strong problem-solving skills and keeping abreast of industry advancements can help radar systems engineers overcome these hurdles effectively.

How to become a radar technician?

To become a radar technician, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by postsecondary training in electronics or radar systems, such as an associate degree or technical certification. On-the-job training and security clearances are often required, along with strong technical skills and knowledge of radar equipment, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Certifications like the Certified Electronics Technician (CET) can enhance job prospects.

What are radar systems?

Radar systems are electronic devices that use radio waves to detect and track objects at a distance. They work by transmitting radio signals, which bounce off objects and return to the radar antenna, allowing the system to determine the object's location, speed, and direction. Radar systems are widely used in applications such as air traffic control, weather monitoring, military defense, and maritime navigation. Their ability to function in various weather conditions and over long distances makes them essential in many industries.

What is the work of a radar system?

A radar systems technician or engineer designs, maintains, and operates radar equipment used to detect and track objects such as aircraft, ships, or weather formations. Their work involves understanding electromagnetic signals, troubleshooting hardware and software, and ensuring system accuracy and reliability, often requiring knowledge of signal processing and calibration tools.

How much would a radar engineer make money?

Radar engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $80,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced skills in signal processing, systems design, and certifications can lead to higher compensation, especially in defense or aerospace industries.

What is the difference between Radar Systems vs Radar Technicians?

AspectRadar SystemsRadar Technicians
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; specialized trainingAssociate degree or technical certification; hands-on training
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and testing in labs or field sitesMaintenance, repair, and installation in various settings
Industry UsageUsed by defense, aerospace, and research organizationsEmployed by military, government agencies, and contractors

Radar Systems professionals focus on designing and developing radar technology, while Radar Technicians handle installation, maintenance, and repairs. Both roles are essential in the radar industry, often working together to ensure system functionality and performance.

What job categories do people searching Radar Systems jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Radar Systems jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Radar Systems jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Radar Systems job openings:
Infographic showing various Radar Systems job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,674 per year, or $61.9 per hour.
Radar Systems Engineer

Radar Systems Engineer

SAIC

Chantilly, VA

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 210 rated it services


Job description

Job ID: 2614410

Location: Chantilly, VA, US

Date Posted: 2026-07-09

Category: Engineering and Sciences

Subcategory: Systems Engineer

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: Yes - 10% of the time

Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: TS/SCI with Poly

Potential for Remote Work: 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 Reconnaissance Office (NRO) in Chantilly, VA.

Note:  Current and Active Top Secret/SCI with the ability to obtain a Polygraph is required.

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 capabilities.  This role is ideal for a candidate who understands how radar payloads and ground mission systems are built, and can translate that insight into objective, acquisition‑focused technical guidance for government leadership.

Key Responsibilities to inlcude:

  • Support analysis of radar payload designs, RF architectures, waveform strategies, and sensor performance models for spaceborne GEOINT missions.
  • Provide unbiased SETA insight into contractor development activities, design reviews, risk posture, and technical trades.
  • Develop, refine, and trace system‑level and payload‑level requirements across space, ground, and mission‑processing segments.
  • Plan and assess verification strategies, test events, and performance validation for radar payloads, ground systems, and mission‑processing algorithms.
  • Evaluate end‑to‑end GEOINT mission architectures, including tasking, collection, downlink, processing, exploitation, and dissemination.
  • Apply real‑world development experience to assess feasibility, schedule realism, integration complexity, and technical maturity.
  • Prepare and deliver technical briefings to government leads, mission partners, and senior decision‑makers.

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree in STEM (science, technical, engineering, math) or related discipline and nine (9) years or more experience; Masters and seven (7) years or more experience ; PhD or JD and four (4) years or more experience. Relevant experience to be substituted in lieu of degree.
  • Active Top Secret/SCI with the ability to obtain a Polygraph
  • Knowledge or experience  with radar systems, RF sensing, SAR, GMTI, or radar phenomenology (hands‑on or conceptual)
  • Prior work with a prime contractor or radar payload developer, ideally supporting space or airborne sensing programs
  • Familiarity with mission needs, acquisition processes, and space/ground integration
  • Experience with MATLAB, Python, STK, or similar modeling/simulation tools
  • Working knowledge of MBSE/SysML, or similar digital‑engineering tools/concepts
  • Understanding of mission processing, exploitation algorithms, or radar image formation

Target salary range: $120,001 - $160,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

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