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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 ...

Collaborate with systems, integration, MBSE, payload, and ISR engineering teams to ensure interface ... radar architecture, or radar signal processing. * Expertise in RF hardware design, payload ...

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 Aug 12, 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 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.

What is a radar system?

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 does a radar systems engineer do?

A radar systems engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains radar systems used in defense, aviation, and weather monitoring. They work with signal processing, hardware integration, and software development, often using tools like MATLAB and CAD software. The role requires knowledge of electromagnetic theory, electronics, and system engineering principles.

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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,674 per year, or $61.9 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


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Job 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 include:
  • 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.

About Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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