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Sar Image Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... Scientist (SAR) - to join our team in Springfield, VA. Our ideal candidate will be able to ... Conduct applied image processing and advanced analysis of radar imagery, including both literal ...

Conduct applied image processing and advanced analysis of radar imagery, including both literal ... earth science, etc. * Experience, knowledge, and skill in processing & exploiting SAR data.

Imagery Scientist - SAR Senior

Springfield, VA · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

Understanding of SAR collection techniques, phenomenology, image formation processes, and ... data science, and space-based custom intelligence solutions. At Geo Owl, we are dedicated to ...

Imagery Scientist - SAR Senior

Springfield, VA · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

Position Overview The Imagery Scientist - SAR Senior supports SAR exploitation activities through ... Understanding of SAR collection techniques, phenomenology, image formation processes, and ...

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented SAR Imagery Scientist to join our team in ... phenomenology, image formation process, and exploitation products. Preferred Qualifications:

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Sar Image Scientist information

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$81.5K

$134.1K

$183K

How much do sar image scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for sar image scientist in the United States is $134,126.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,000.00 and $157,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are SAR Image Scientists?

SAR Image Scientists are professionals who specialize in analyzing and interpreting Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imagery. They use advanced techniques to process radar data, extract meaningful information, and support applications such as environmental monitoring, mapping, disaster response, and defense. Their work often involves image processing, pattern recognition, and the development of algorithms to enhance the quality and utility of SAR images. SAR Image Scientists collaborate with researchers, government agencies, and private organizations to ensure accurate and actionable insights from radar data.

What are some typical challenges faced by a SAR Image Scientist when working with large datasets?

SAR Image Scientists often handle massive volumes of radar data, which can present challenges in terms of data storage, processing speed, and ensuring data integrity. Managing and preprocessing these datasets for analysis requires familiarity with high-performance computing environments and advanced image processing tools. Additionally, interpreting SAR imagery involves addressing noise, calibration issues, and varying acquisition parameters, all of which require strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail. Collaboration with software engineers, remote sensing experts, and end users is common to ensure accurate analysis and deliver actionable insights.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a SAR Image Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a SAR Image Scientist, you need a strong background in remote sensing, radar signal processing, and geospatial analysis, usually supported by a degree in physics, electrical engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with technical tools such as MATLAB, Python, ENVI, and SAR processing software, as well as experience with GIS systems, is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly are vital soft skills in this role. These skills are important because they enable effective interpretation and exploitation of SAR data for applications in earth observation, defense, and environmental monitoring.

What is the difference between Sar Image Scientist vs Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Data Analyst?

AspectSar Image ScientistSynthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Data Analyst
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees in remote sensing, electrical engineering, or related fields; expertise in SAR image processingDegree in geospatial sciences, environmental science, or related fields; proficiency in SAR data analysis
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, defense agencies, aerospace companiesGovernment agencies, environmental organizations, geospatial firms
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in defense, aerospace, and research sectorsIn environmental monitoring, disaster response, and mapping projects

The Sar Image Scientist focuses on developing and improving SAR imaging techniques and algorithms, often working in research or defense settings. In contrast, the SAR Data Analyst primarily interprets SAR data for practical applications like environmental monitoring or disaster management. While both roles require knowledge of SAR technology, the Scientist emphasizes algorithm development, whereas the Analyst emphasizes data interpretation and application.

Infographic showing various Sar Image Scientist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,126 per year, or $64.5 per hour.
Expert Imagery Scientist (SAR)

Expert Imagery Scientist (SAR)

Leidos

Springfield, VA

$116K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 427 rated business services


Job description

Leidos has an exciting opportunity for an Expert Level Exploitation Specialist/Imagery Scientist (SAR) - to join our team in Springfield, VA.

Our ideal candidate will be able to :

  • Conduct applied image processing and advanced analysis of radar imagery, including both literal image interpretation and non-literal analysis.
  • Support the development of analysis techniques of radar imagery for new signature and methodology development.
  • Collect data and perform data analysis.
  • Perform ad hoc analysis and present results in a clear manner.
  • Communicate complex quantitative analysis in a clear, precise and actionable manner using storytelling/visualization.
  • Create/deploy/maintain automated workflows and processing pipelines
  • Create/deploy/maintain tools to extract features, data, and metadata from a variety of sources.
  • Write/maintain Python scripts to improve efficiency of the production process.
  • Contribute to customer organization mentorship and training on related phenomenology, processing, tools, and tradecraft.
  • Collaborate with external mission partner organizations as needed to support customer mission & analytic goals.

Skills and Experience:

Basic Qualifications

  • Typically requires a BA degree and 8 - 12 years of prior relevant experience or Masters with 6 - 10 years of prior relevant experience.
  • BS in image science, remote sensing, earth science, etc.
  • Expert knowledge & skill processing & exploiting SAR data.
  • Active TS/SCI clearance with ability to be approved for a CI Poly

Preferred Qualifications

  • Formal training & experience in remote sensing/earth science/etc.
  • IDL/Java/C++/VB/MATLAB/R/other.
  • APIs.
  • Advanced degree.
  • Proficiency in Google Earth Engine, ESRI ARC Services, Tableau, Web Services Development and ArcGIS.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:April 29, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $116,350.00 - $210,325.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.


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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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