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Signal Intelligence Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

... signals intelligence and more. We can't tell you much more about what we do, but we can tell you it's amazing. Applied Technology is seeking a highly talented and technically strong individual to ...

... signals intelligence and more. We can't tell you much more about what we do, but we can tell you it's amazing. Applied Technology is seeking a highly talented and technically strong person to fulfill ...

Sr. RF Engineer

Schaumburg, IL ยท On-site

$101K - $202K/yr

... signals intelligence and more. We can't tell you much more about what we do, but we can tell you it's amazing. Applied Technology is seeking a highly talented and technically strong individual to ...

Showing results 21-40

Signal Intelligence information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$46.9K

$107.8K

$148.3K

How much do signal intelligence jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for signal intelligence in Chicago, IL is $107,798.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,800.00 and $122,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is signal intelligence?

Signal intelligence, often abbreviated as SIGINT, is the process of collecting and analyzing electronic signals and communications from various sources to gather valuable information. This field plays a crucial role in national security, military operations, and intelligence agencies by intercepting radio, satellite, and other forms of electronic communications. Professionals in this area use specialized technology and methods to detect, interpret, and report on these signals to help inform strategic decisions. SIGINT can provide insights into the intentions, capabilities, and activities of potential adversaries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a signal intelligence specialist?

To thrive as a Signal Intelligence specialist, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in electronics or computer science, often supported by military training or a relevant degree. Proficiency with signal analysis software, radio frequency (RF) systems, cryptographic tools, and sometimes certifications like CompTIA Security+ are commonly required. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, discretion, and effective communication are critical soft skills in this sensitive field. These competencies are essential for accurately interpreting complex data, ensuring security, and supporting critical decision-making in intelligence operations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in signal intelligence roles?

Signal Intelligence professionals often encounter challenges related to rapidly evolving technology and encryption methods used by adversaries. Staying current with advancements in signal interception, analysis tools, and cybersecurity is essential to remain effective. Additionally, the role frequently requires collaboration across multidisciplinary teams, balancing strict confidentiality with the need to share insights for broader mission success. Adapting to high-pressure situations and extended hours during critical operations is also common in this field.

What is the difference between Signal Intelligence vs Communications Analyst?

AspectSignal IntelligenceCommunications Analyst
Required CredentialsSecurity clearances, military or government intelligence trainingDegree in communications, IT, or related field; certifications vary
Work EnvironmentIntelligence agencies, military, government facilitiesCorporate, government, or military settings focusing on communication systems
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily government and defense sectorsPublic and private sector organizations, including defense and corporate sectors
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding intelligence gathering methodsAnalyzing communication systems and data

Signal Intelligence involves collecting and analyzing intercepted signals for intelligence purposes, often within government or military contexts. Communications Analysts focus on managing, analyzing, and improving communication systems in various organizations. While both roles require technical knowledge, Signal Intelligence emphasizes intelligence gathering, whereas Communications Analysts concentrate on communication infrastructure and data analysis.

How to get into signal intelligence?

To enter signal intelligence, candidates typically need a background in fields like cybersecurity, computer science, or electrical engineering, along with strong analytical skills. Security clearances are often required, and proficiency with communication protocols, encryption, and intelligence tools is beneficial. Relevant certifications and experience in military or government agencies can also improve prospects.

What does a signal intelligence specialist do?

A signal intelligence specialist analyzes electronic signals and communications to gather intelligence and support national security. They use specialized tools and techniques to intercept, decrypt, and interpret data, often working in secure environments and requiring knowledge of cryptography and communications systems.

What are popular job titles related to Signal Intelligence jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Signal Intelligence jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Signal Intelligence jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Signal Intelligence jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Signal Intelligence job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,798 per year, or $51.8 per hour.

Director of Engineering & Technology

Thales Defense & Security, Inc.

Aurora, IL โ€ข Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Thales Defense & Security, Inc. (TDSI)ย Headquartered in Clarksburg, MD, is a U.S. company that has been serving domestic and international defense Air, Land and Sea domains for 60+ years. With over 1,000 employees, TDSI and its four subsidiaries (Advanced Acoustic Concepts, Digital Receiver Technology, Tampa Microwave, and Trusted Cyber Technologies), supports U.S. Joint Services, special operations forces and multi-national partners with a variety of communication, visualization, signal intelligence/electronic warfare, and sensor/sonar capabilities. TDSI's key technologies include tactical handheld radios, expeditionary satellite terminals, helmet-mounted displays, optics and target recognition capability, advanced radars, undersea sensing and missile systems.ย Lives dependย on what we do!ย 

ย 

Top Benefitsย (Subject to terms of applicable policies/plans)

  • Competitive Salaryย 
  • Yearly Incentiveย Compensation Planย ย 
  • Medical insurance for self and eligible family membersย 
  • Generous 401(k) program- up to 7% company contribution and 100% immediate vestingย 
  • Tuition Reimbursementย 
  • Paid wellness, vacation, and holiday leaveย 
  • Paid maternity, paternity, and parental leaveย 
  • 9/80 Work Schedule (every other Friday off)ย 
  • Hybrid working environmentย 

Thales Defense & Security, Inc. (TDSI) seeks an experienced Director of Engineering to support our helmet-mounted displays, inertial tracking & cueing technologies in Aurora, IL. The Director will oversee teams such as: Systems, Embedded Software, Electrical, Mechanical and Field Service. The ideal candidate will need to possess extensive knowledge of head and helmet-mounted display systems. This position reports into the Vice President of Engineering. ย ย 

Responsibilitiesย 

  • Technical and administrative leadership of a multi-disciplined engineering department consisting of systems engineering, software engineering, electrical hardware engineering, and mechanical engineering product development groups.
  • Establish and/or maintaining processes, tools, and techniques for the engineering department in accordance with TDSI practices.
  • Interface with project leads and engineering management in resolving product development issues, coordinating resources, and managing design activities.
  • Work with department staff to develop and achieve strategic plan objectives. - Participate and/or support product development reviews, project planning, proposal and bid generation, and product requirements generation.
  • Actively promote and develop actions for continuous improvement in the department in the areas of people, process, tools and product technology to ensure overall product development is competitive as compared to industry best practices.
  • Ensure engineering projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet technical performance requirements.
  • Responsible for overall department strategic direction and ensuring assigned corporate strategic objectives are met.
  • Perform as an integral member of the management team by interacting on a regular basis with inter/intra-company disciplines including business development, contracts, program management, manufacturing and customer service.

Supervisor Responsibilities

This position carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's operating policies and applicable laws. ย Responsibilities can include interviewing, hiring, training and developing employees; creating effective staff plans - assigning and directing work in a matrix organization; performance appraisals, rewarding and management of employee discipline when required; and addressing complaints and resolving conflicts. Active mentoring and development of staff is a critical element of the supervisory responsibilities to create a highly performing cohesive team.

Qualificationsย ย 

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.ย 

  • U.S. Citizenship required. -ย Applicants selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.ย 
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical/Computer Engineering or related technical degree.ย  Advanced degree preferred.
  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in an engineering leadership position (technical project management and/or functional management) involved with product development in the military aerospace business. Previous experience in hands on engineering position required.
  • Experience with military avionics systems (fixed wing and rotorcraft) highly preferred.
  • Proven ability to manage cross-functional engineering managers and development teams in a matrix organization.
  • Experience with AS9100D process implementation and adherence.
  • Must have working knowledge of relevant industry standards (DO-254, DO-160, DO-178 B/C, MIL-STD-461 and MIL-STD-810, DAL etc.).
  • Experience with agile methodology for software and hardware development.
  • Ability to work in a team environment and interact with employees in all departments and functions.
  • Effective oral and written communication skills and the ability to manage multiple projects.
  • Ability to travel up to 20%
  • Ability to comply with all Company guidelines, policies, procedures and embrace Company Core Values.ย  ย 

The annualized pay range for this role isย $179,808.00 - $229,755.00 USD along with a target incentive compensation plan (ICP) of 15%. The pay range provided is a good faith estimate representative of the experience level for the role described above. TDSI considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.ย 

For specific questions about this job posting, candidates may contactย talent acquisitionย at careers@thalesdsi.com.ย 

Thalesย Defense & Security, Inc.ย is committed to non-discrimination as applicable under federal, state and local laws. We are an E-Verify Employer.ย 

If you need an accommodation or assistance in order to apply for a position with Thales Defense & Security, Inc., please call Human Resources at 240-864-7000.ย 

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