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Sensor Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Headquartered in Chantilly, VA with 16 global offices, Arcfield employs more than 1,500 engineers ... Basic knowledge of sensor types to include airborne, space-borne, and FMV. * Knowledge of Microsoft ...

Senior Engineer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$119K - $164K/yr

We have an immediate opening for a Senior Engineer to support advanced Command and Control (C2), sensor integration, and mission systems efforts for Department of War programs operating in complex ...

Senior Engineer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$119K - $164K/yr

We have an immediate opening for a Senior Engineer to support advanced Command and Control (C2), sensor integration, and mission systems efforts for Department of War programs operating in complex ...

Senior Engineer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$119K - $164K/yr

We have an immediate opening for a Senior Engineer to support advanced Command and Control (C2), sensor integration, and mission systems efforts for Department of War programs operating in complex ...

Senior Engineer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$119K - $164K/yr

Support sensor-to-shooter integration efforts across tactical, operational, and strategic mission environments. * Analyze operational mission needs and develop engineering solutions supporting ...

Senior Engineer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$119K - $164K/yr

Support sensor-to-shooter integration efforts across tactical, operational, and strategic mission environments. * Analyze operational mission needs and develop engineering solutions supporting ...

Senior Engineer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$119K - $164K/yr

Support sensor-to-shooter integration efforts across tactical, operational, and strategic mission environments. * Analyze operational mission needs and develop engineering solutions supporting ...

Sensor Model Skills: Provide knowledge of the creation of rigorous sensor models and their ... S. degree in Engineering, Remote Sensing, Physics, Mathematics, or another related field

Sensor Model Skills: Provide knowledge of the creation of rigorous sensor models and their ... S. degree in Engineering, Remote Sensing, Physics, Mathematics, or another related field

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Showing results 1-20

Sensor Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$49.8K

$120.5K

$196.5K

How much do sensor engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for sensor engineer in Washington is $120,492.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,100.00 and $150,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Sensor Engineer, you need a solid background in electronics, signal processing, and sensor technologies, usually supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, data acquisition systems, programming languages like C/C++, and relevant certifications such as Certified Measurement and Control Technician are highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork set top performers apart in this field. These skills are crucial for designing reliable sensor systems, troubleshooting complex issues, and ensuring seamless integration into larger engineering projects.

What are Sensor Engineers?

Sensor Engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain sensors and sensor systems used to detect and measure physical properties such as temperature, pressure, motion, or chemical composition. They work in various industries including automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and electronics to ensure sensors function accurately and reliably. Their responsibilities often include selecting materials, integrating sensors with electronic systems, troubleshooting issues, and optimizing sensor performance for specific applications.

What are some common challenges Sensor Engineers face when integrating new sensor technologies into existing systems?

Sensor Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between new sensors and legacy hardware or software, managing data integrity amidst increased data streams, and addressing calibration or environmental factors that may impact sensor accuracy. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, including software developers and hardware engineers, is frequently required to troubleshoot integration issues and optimize system performance. Staying updated with rapidly evolving sensor technologies and industry standards is also essential for successful implementation.

What is the difference between Sensor Engineer vs Electronics Engineer?

AspectSensor EngineerElectronics Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or related fields; certifications varyBachelor's in Electrical Engineering or related fields; certifications vary
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsDesign firms, manufacturing plants, R&D departments
Industry UsageDeveloping and testing sensors for various applicationsDesigning electronic systems, circuit boards, and devices
Common Search/ComparisonSensor Engineer vs Electronics Engineer

Sensor Engineers focus on designing, developing, and testing sensors used in various industries, while Electronics Engineers work on designing electronic circuits and systems. Both roles require a background in electrical engineering and often collaborate in product development, but Sensor Engineers specialize in sensor technology specifically.

What job categories do people searching Sensor Engineer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Sensor Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Sensor Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Sensor Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Sensor Engineer job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,492 per year, or $57.9 per hour.
Sr. Radar Systems Engineer

$104K - $142K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description

Are you eager to apply your expertise in radar systems, physics, modeling and simulation, and/or data science to high impact defense challenges, and thrive in a collaborative, innovative environment? If so, we are looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

We are seeking Senior Radar System Engineers with at least 5 years of experience to help field the next generation of Advanced Surface Navy sensors and Land-based Cruise Missile Defense sensor networks, defending against some of the world's most challenging threats in challenging operational environments.

Why Join Us

  • MissionDriven Impact: Contribute directly to the development and fielding of nextgeneration Navy Radar/EO/IR, electronicwarfare, and landbased cruisemissiledefense sensor networks that protect service members against the world's toughest threats.
  • CuttingEdge Innovation: Work with physicsbased modeling and simulation (M&S), advanced dataanalysis, and machinelearning techniques to create innovative sensorperformance tools.
  • Collaborative Culture: Join a highly motivated, interdisciplinary team of sensor engineers, RFpropagation and meteorology specialists, software developers, combatsystem engineers, and physicists-all focused on solving complex, missioncritical problems.

Core Responsibilities

  • Analyze live tacticalsensor data with a crossdisciplinary team to deliver missiondriven solutions.
  • Identify and solve problems that impact mission requirements.
  • Build and apply M&S tools, dataanalysis platforms, and machinelearning algorithms to large data sets; develop novel algorithms that solve real-world problems.
  • Develop and refine physicsbased simulations that provide new insight into radar, EO/IR, and electronicwarfare system performance in realistic operational environments.
  • Develop novel instrumentation and algorithms for understanding RF propagation effects by directly measuring, recording, and analyzing RF signal measurements.
  • Identify emergent phenomenology, troubleshoot problems affecting sensor performance, and work with a broad network of experts-including prime contractors, government labs, RFpropagation and meteorology specialists, software developers, combatsystem engineers, and physicists-to deliver integrated solutions.
  • Apply, machine learning, signal processing, and data science techniques to unprecedented real-world challenges.
  • Advance the state of the art in our core technology areas: signal processing, electromagnetics, software development, and boundary-layer meteorology.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you have...

  • A BS in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or equivalent STEM technical discipline, with some sensor systems engineering experience.
  • At least 5 years of engineering-related experience related to sensing.
  • Strong understanding of radar systems, and/or physics-based phenomena affecting radar or communications systems.
  • Some familiarity with Python, MATLAB, or equivalent tools, and have had some exposure to modern development process (git, GitLab, Jira, or equivalent).
  • Good interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Willingness to travel up to 5% of the time as needed.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret/SCI level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

  • Have a MS or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or equivalent STEM technical discipline, and/or additional years of relevant experience.
  • Experience with advanced DoW sensors and combat systems, particularly in the areas described above.
  • Have experience leading technical teams.
  • Have an existing Top Secret clearance.

About Us

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities athttps://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contactAccessibility@jhuapl.edu.

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.


Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually