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Senior Algorithm Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Overview VTG is a patriotic DSP Algorithms RF Systems Engineer to join our team in Hanover, MD. This position will support a mission-focused customer developing, deploying, and maintaining Radio ...

The Role: As a Senior Algorithm & Signal Processing Researcher, you will develop and apply ... algorithm integration, test & evaluation, model & simulation, systems engineering, or ...

Overview VTG is a patriotic DSP Algorithms RF Systems Engineer to join our team in Hanover, MD. This position will support a mission-focused customer developing, deploying, and maintaining Radio ...

The SAAM group is seeking a Senior Software Engineer to join high-performing teams transforming ... You will work with scientists and engineers to design and implement algorithmic solutions to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Algorithm Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$67.4K

$143.3K

$207.8K

How much do senior algorithm engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior algorithm engineer in Washington is $143,338.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,400.00 and $162,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Senior Algorithm Engineer vs Data Scientist?

AspectSenior Algorithm EngineerData Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in CS, EE, or related; strong math and programming skillsBachelor's or Master's in CS, Statistics, or related; strong analytical and programming skills
Work EnvironmentDevelops algorithms for software, hardware, or embedded systems in tech companiesAnalyzes data to extract insights, often in tech, finance, or healthcare sectors
Industry UsageCommon in AI, robotics, and software developmentPrevalent in analytics, machine learning, and business intelligence

While both roles require strong programming and analytical skills, Senior Algorithm Engineers focus on designing and optimizing algorithms for technical systems, whereas Data Scientists analyze data to inform business decisions. The roles often overlap in AI and machine learning projects but serve different primary functions within organizations.

What are some common challenges faced by Senior Algorithm Engineers when deploying algorithms into production environments?

Senior Algorithm Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring that algorithms are both scalable and efficient when integrated into real-time systems. Balancing model accuracy with computational resource constraints is a frequent task, as well as addressing data inconsistencies and managing version control for iterative algorithm updates. Collaboration with software engineers and data engineers is essential to ensure smooth deployment, monitor performance, and quickly resolve any production issues. Staying updated with the latest frameworks and best practices also helps in overcoming these challenges.

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

To thrive as a Senior Algorithm Engineer, you need advanced proficiency in mathematics, computer science, and algorithm design, usually supported by a relevant degree and extensive experience in the field. Expertise with programming languages such as Python or C++, proficiency with machine learning libraries, and familiarity with version control systems like Git are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly help set top candidates apart. These skills are crucial for developing robust, efficient solutions and collaborating effectively on challenging technical projects.

What does a Senior Algorithm Engineer do?

A Senior Algorithm Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing complex algorithms that solve technical problems or enhance product performance. They often work with large datasets, machine learning models, or mathematical techniques to create efficient solutions. In addition to coding, they may collaborate with cross-functional teams, review the work of junior engineers, and help set the technical direction for algorithm development projects. Their expertise ensures that products and systems run efficiently and accurately.
What are the most commonly searched types of Algorithm Engineer jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Algorithm Engineer jobs in Washington are:
Infographic showing various Senior Algorithm Engineer job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 68% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 73% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,338 per year, or $68.9 per hour.
Senior Algorithm & Signal Processing Researcher

Senior Algorithm & Signal Processing Researcher

STR

Arlington, VA • On-site, Remote

$139K - $170K/yr

Other

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

About the Team:

The Sensors Division at STR focuses on technology development for advanced sensor systems and platforms in support of national security requirements. Our particular focus areas include airborne/spaceborne/surface-based radar, electronic warfare, underwater acoustics, hyperspectral imaging, and EO/IR sensing. To support these missions, the Division's efforts span multiple technical areas, including RF analog/digital hardware, acoustic hardware, signal processing algorithms, machine learning algorithms, systems analysis, and real-time embedded processor implementation.

The Algorithms, Processing and Experimentation (APEX) Group specializes in development of RF/radar modes, skills and applications, with particular emphasis on advanced signal processing chains and associated algorithm research. We mature these technologies with the objective of implementation, integration, and eventual utility in RF-based systems, typically tailoring our work for highly specific Defense (e.g., Air Force, Space Force, Navy, DARPA, etc.) and Intelligence Community needs.

About the Role:

As a Senior Algorithm and Signal Processing Engineer, you will develop, implement, test, and demonstrate novel signal processing, optimization, and machine learning algorithms for advanced electronic warfare, radar, and remote sensing applications. You will work as part of multidisciplinary teams to research next-generation sensing concepts and transition advanced algorithms into integrated systems for laboratory and field demonstrations.

A successful candidate will have expertise in one or more of the following areas: signal processing, adaptive radar signal processing, optimization, machine learning, electronic warfare, algorithm development, radar systems, communications systems, RF remote sensing, resource management, modeling and simulation, or related technical fields. This position requires strong analytical skills, scientific programming experience, and the ability to collaborate with researchers, engineers, and customers to solve challenging technical problems.

What You Will Do

  • Develop advanced sensing concepts, signal processing algorithms, and machine learning techniques for radar, electronic warfare, and remote sensing applications
  • Research, design, implement, and evaluate novel algorithms from concept through demonstration
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to architect, develop, integrate, and test advanced RF signal processing systems
  • Support modeling and simulation activities to evaluate algorithm performance and inform system design
  • Plan and execute laboratory and field testing to assess algorithm performance and transition research into operational prototypes.
  • Contribute to technical proposals, customer interactions, presentations, and technical briefings
  • Survey emerging research and incorporate state-of-the-art techniques into practical algorithm solutions.

Who You Are

  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance, for which U.S. citizenship is required by the U.S. government
  • PhD, MS, or BS in Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline with 2-5+ years relevant experience
  • Strong programming skills in MATLAB, Python, C/C++, or similar scientific computing languages
  • Strong mathematical, analytical, troubleshooting, written, and verbal communication skills
  • Experience developing, implementing, testing, or analyzing signal processing, optimization, or machine learning algorithms
  • Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences
  • Ability to translate research objectives and customer needs into practical technical solutions

Even Better

  • Active Top Secret security clearance
  • Experience with radar systems, RF remote sensing, electronic warfare, or communications systems
  • Experience with adaptive signal processing, waveform design, multidimensional signal processing, resource management, or system optimization
  • Experience developing algorithms for real-time or embedded systems
  • Experience with modeling and simulation, algorithm integration, and system test and evaluation
  • Experience with software development and scientific computing workflows
  • Ability to survey technical literature, identify emerging approaches, and transition research into integrated, tested solutions

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $139,000 - $170,000

The salary range listed is based on external market data. Offers are based on factors, such as but not limited to, the candidate's experience, education, training, key skills/critical skills, security clearances, and prevailing market and business conditions.