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Senior Algorithm Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Senior GNC Engineer, Space

Washington, DC · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

The Sr. GNC Engineer will lead algorithm design, truth and physics modeling, simulation and analysis for a wide variety of spacecraft and space missions to include but not limited to LEO, MEO, GEO ...

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 ...

Working under the guidance of senior engineers, the successful candidate will participate in ... Algorithm Integration * Assist with integration of Kalman Filters, GEONS estimation algorithms ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Hi, We are looking for a Senior Data Scientist to join our team in McLean, VA (Onsite) . If you're ... algorithms. Programming languages may include but are not limited to SAS, Python, R, SQL, and ...

Senior Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site +1

$134K - $184K/yr

By leveraging expertise in machine learning, algorithms, model-predictive control, and software ... As a Senior Software Engineer, you will work as part of a tightly knit team to design, develop ...

Senior Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site +1

$134K - $184K/yr

By leveraging expertise in machine learning, algorithms, model-predictive control, and software ... As a Senior Software Engineer, you will work as part of a tightly knit team to design, develop ...

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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 GNC Engineer, Space

Senior GNC Engineer, Space

Anduril Industries

Washington, DC • On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

Other

Re-posted 16 days ago


Anduril rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 71,263 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

ABOUT THE TEAM

Anduril's Space team is dedicated to expanding our AI-powered capabilities into the final frontier, enhancing Space Domain Awareness, Space Control, and Command and Control for U.S. military and allied partners. We're developing fully integrated hardware and software systems, including Lattice for Space Missions and modular payloads, to address growing threats in space and ensure our Guardians maintain a decisive advantage in this contested warfighting domain.

ABOUT THE JOB

As a Sr. GNC (Guidance, Navigation & Control) Engineer for our Space team, you own the understanding and design of all satellite GNC subsystems to include but not limited to hardware sensors and actuators, orbit mechanics, navigation algorithms, flight software implementation, subsystem integration & test (I&T), and vehicle I&T. The GNC engineering team will work closely with related teams, including Systems, Flight Software, Mission Operations, and Ground Software. The Sr. GNC Engineer will lead algorithm design, truth and physics modeling, simulation and analysis for a wide variety of spacecraft and space missions to include but not limited to LEO, MEO, GEO, Reentry, and RPOD (Rendezvous Proximity Operations and Docking). The Sr. GNC Engineer will help lead successful implementation, validation and GNC operations of Anduril's fleet of spacecraft.
This role is directly tied to ongoing, funded programs within Anduril's Space Business Line. The programs require building and fielding a resilient, software-defined spacecraft systems across numerous mission threads. We work with mission partners and customers to deploy reliable and robust capabilities on operationally-relevant fielding timelines to meet complex challenges across the DOD and IC.

WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Lead spacecraft GNC software and hardware subsystems for various spacecraft efforts in all orbital regimes and work closely with bus providers for successful implementation.
  • Develop modern, software-defined approaches to autonomous spacecraft operations with maneuvering capabilities to successfully accomplish mission objectives.
  • Develop appropriate test plans and procedures to validate the GNC system during ground checkout, on-orbit commissioning and operations.
  • Collaborate across multiple teams to plan, build, and test complex functionality.
  • Coordinate with end-users, other operators and customers to turn needs into features while balancing user experience with engineering constraints.
  • Support challenging schedules during ground testing, launch windows and on-orbit operations of the spacecraft systems.
  • Directly interact with customers to ensure mission success.
  • Design of flight software, algorithms, and simulation products.
  • Development of spacecraft autonomy tools for dynamic space operations
  • Test process development and execution.
  • Define automated fault detection and responses.
  • Provide hardware-in-the-loop and monte-carlo simulation capabilities.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Strong engineering background from industry or school, ideally in areas/fields such as Astrodynamics, Aerospace Engineering, Dynamics and Controls Engineering, Computer Science, or other engineering degree.
  • Experience with MATLAB, Simulink, Python, C++, Go, and/or Linux Systems. 
  • Experience conducting spacecraft operations and satellite command and control with an emphasis on system reliability and uptime.
  • Ability to quickly understand and navigate complex systems and detailed requirements.
  • Experience with orbital mechanics and resident space object tracking capabilities.
  • Experience developing 3-DOF simplified and 6-DOF high-fidelity dynamics simulation models used for GNC systems analysis and validation.
  • Familiarity with rendezvous proximity operations and docking, orbital mechanics with propulsive spacecraft, spacecraft attitude determination and controls.
  • Strong knowledge of spacecraft dynamics, orbital mechanics, and control theory.
  • Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Top Secret security clearance.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • A desire to work on critical software and hardware designs in the space domain.
  • Experience testing propulsion subsystems in laboratory environments that mimic the space environmental constraints.
  • Experience with testing/validation leveraging FlatSats, Hardware-in-the-Loop testbeds and digital spacecraft simulators through nominal and fault scenarios.
  • Experience with computer vision and perception algorithms to support GNC operations.
  • Exposure to US satellite operations policy and constraints for relevant mission threads in all orbits.

Working at Anduril


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About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

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