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Senior Algorithm Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

As a Senior Software Engineer, you will work on various software projects, including processing-intensive analytics, novel algorithm development, manipulation of large data sets, real-time systems ...

Senior Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$139K - $180K/yr

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 ...

As a Senior Software Engineer, you will work on various software projects, including processing-intensive analytics, novel algorithm development, manipulation of large data sets, real-time systems ...

The Senior Guidance and Control Engineer develops software for cutting-edge space and defense ... Designs algorithms using modern theory and proven techniques. Develops embedded software based on ...

Senior Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$141K - $186K/yr

The company is seeking a Senior Software Engineer to join the Systems Autonomy, Analysis, and Modeling (SAAM) Group, where the engineer will design and implement algorithmic solutions for national ...

Senior Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$141K - $186K/yr

They are seeking a Senior Software Engineer to transform advanced concepts and algorithms into software implementations for prototypes and operational systems, collaborating with scientists and ...

Senior Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$141K - $186K/yr

They are seeking a Senior Software Engineer to transform advanced concepts and algorithms into software implementations for prototypes and operational systems, collaborating with scientists and ...

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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 Jun 22, 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Locum Tenens, 11% As Needed, 41% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 31% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,338 per year, or $68.9 per hour.

Senior Digital Signals Processing and Algorithms Engineer

Quartermaster AI Inc

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

About Us:
At Quartermaster AI, we believe the ocean should be a safe and sustainably managed resource for all. By leveraging cutting-edge AI and robotics, we unlock capabilities that were only recently impossible. Our distributed open-ocean systems enable every vessel to sense, compute, and communicate, enhancing maritime domain awareness for those who need it most.
Job Description:
Quartermaster AI is seeking an experienced RF/DSP Engineer to build the digital signal processing foundation of our radiofrequency sensing platform. This is a ground-floor role: our DSP pipeline is early-stage, and you will build the primary architecture and implementation of the algorithms that turn raw RF into maritime domain awareness and insights.
You will work closely with our RF hardware and embedded systems engineers to implement signal processing algorithms on edge compute hardware, and with ML/AI engineers to deliver conditioned, feature-rich data that feeds downstream detection and classification pipelines.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Design and implement the end-to-end DSP pipeline from raw IQ sample ingestion through spectral analysis, channelization, filtering, and feature extraction.
  • Implement and validate algorithms multi-sensor RF geolocation algorithms.
  • Build and maintain signal detection, framing, and classification primitives that serve as inputs to downstream ML pipelines.
  • Write optimized signal processing code in C/C++ targeting embedded processors and FPGA soft-core environments on edge hardware.
  • Experience porting DSP workloads to server-class or cloud compute environments.
  • Profile and optimize algorithms for latency, throughput, and power within tight edge compute budgets.
  • Define and implement data pipeline interfaces between the edge layer and cloud/server-side processing, including IQ data formatting, metadata schemas, and transport protocols.
  • Contribute to system-level design reviews, interface control documents, and technical roadmap planning.
Qualifications (Preferred):
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Signal Processing, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related field.
  • 5+ years of hands-on DSP algorithm development for RF applications.
  • Strong proficiency in C/C++ for performance-critical, embedded or near-real-time signal processing.
  • Demonstrated experience implementing and validating geolocation algorithms.
  • Deep understanding of spectral analysis, digital filtering, synchronization, and coherent signal processing fundamentals.
  • Experience with software-defined radio platforms and IQ data processing workflows.
  • Proficiency in Python for algorithm prototyping, simulation, and test automation.
  • Active Secret clearance or demonstrated ability to obtain one.
Strongly Preferred
  • Familiarity with FPGA DSP pipelines (HLS, IP cores, or HDL-level signal processing integration).
  • Experience building DSP algorithms or pipelines for RF signals in the maritime domain.