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Signal Intelligence Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Signals Intelligence SME (SIGINT SME)

Mclean, VA · On-site

$95K - $119K/yr

Have experience using specialized tools and software for signal processing and analysis. * Oversee, design, develop risk assessments toward anomalies or failures. * Ensure intelligence products are ...

Have experience using specialized tools and software for signal processing and analysis. * Oversee, design, develop risk assessments toward anomalies or failures. * Ensure intelligence products are ...

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Signal Intelligence information

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$45.5K

$104.6K

$144K

How much do signal intelligence jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for signal intelligence in the United States is $104,643.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,000.00 and $118,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Signal Intelligence specialist, and why are they important?

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 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 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.

More about Signal Intelligence jobs
What cities are hiring for Signal Intelligence jobs? Cities with the most Signal Intelligence job openings:
What states have the most Signal Intelligence jobs? States with the most job openings for Signal Intelligence jobs include:
Infographic showing various Signal Intelligence job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,643 per year, or $50.3 per hour.
Signals Intelligence SME (SIGINT SME)

Signals Intelligence SME (SIGINT SME)

Peraton

Mclean, VA • On-site

$95K - $119K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 203 rated it services


Job description

Responsibilities

Peraton is seeking experienced Signals Intelligence SMEs (SIGINT SME) to join our talented team of technical and business experts providing key operational and mission support to a SI/SETA mission for a customer in Virginia. The SIGINT SME will play a critical role in supporting national security and defense efforts by providing their expertise and knowledge within collection, analysis, and exploitation of signals intelligence to produce actionable intelligence for the classified customer and stakeholders.

The ideal SIGINT SME candidate must have knowledge on various SIGINT collection systems and technologies used to intercept signals, including ground-based, satellites, aircraft, ships, and specialized SIGINT platforms. Extensive knowledge and expertise in defensive or offensive signals collection is highly desired.

Our unique team of technical and business disciplines provide operational support for Systems Engineering and Integration, Mission Planning, and Business Operations to multiple functional mission areas. The team is responsible for the technical design, operations, and mission planning and business operations for the full life cycle of customer specific operations (from concept through development and installation/O&M).

In this role, the SIGINT SME will act as a Technical Advisor/Consultant to critical SI/SETA activities and serve as a primary interface between the Program customers/stakeholders, the technical development team, and end users. They will ensure robust requirements definitions, execution and development processes, solutions as well as support testing/training in advance of the deployment of technical capabilities. They will be expected to support multiple efforts and will assist the customer in making informed decisions related to requirements and developments. They will also assist with the deployment of technical capabilities while serving as a focal point to balance various equities and operational considerations.

The SIGINT SME will be responsible for the following but not limited to:

  • Provide their knowledge on various collection systems and technologies used to intercept signals, including ground-based, satellites, aircraft, ships, and specialized SIGINT platforms.
  • Have solid proficiency in preparing, developing briefings, talking papers, concepts of operations and other material to support recommendations, to the classified customer and stakeholders.
  • Analyze intercepted signals to extract relevant intelligence information which could include deciphering encrypted communications, identifying communication patterns and detecting anomalies or indicators of interest within the signals.
  • Have experience using specialized tools and software for signal processing and analysis.
  • Oversee, design, develop risk assessments toward anomalies or failures.
  • Ensure intelligence products are timely, accurate and actionable, providing valuable insight to support decision-making and operational planning.
  • Respond and support evolving and dynamic mission-critical activities and provide any requirements and strategies.
  • Work with a team to conduct target analysis and operational research from a variety of sources to identify, analyze and characterize (logically and physically) telecommunications to build a comprehensive intelligence picture for the classified customer and stakeholders.
  • Participate in special projects and performs additional duties as required to support customer requirements.

**This role requires the candidate to perform duties on-site Mon-Fri. May require up to 25% travel, based on customer needs**

Qualifications

Required Qualifications: 

  • An active TS/SCI clearance with Polygraph.
  • A Bachelor's Degree in engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, or any relevant technical field and 12 years of relevant experience; or a master's degree and 10 years of relevant experience.
  • Must have a minimum of 10+ years of experience within signals intelligence for a government customer; or the equivalent combination of education; technical certifications or training; or work experience.
  • A minimum of two (2+) years of experience providing services for an engineering-related mission involving either cyber operations, communications, supply chain expertise, military asset tracking, and/or deep-sea communications support.  
  • Must have knowledge on various SIGINT collection systems and technologies used to intercept signals, including ground-based, satellites, aircraft, ships, and specialized SIGINT platforms.
  • Must have strong written, communications and interpersonal skills with the ability to prepare and brief complex technical and non-technical information to non-technical stakeholders.
  • Be a self-starter who will take initiative for helping manage key parts of complex technical developments.
  • Possess a desire and ability to work on multiple fast-paced projects and be willing and able to aggressively learn the activities and focus of the organization. 
  • Must be comfortable working in a dynamic team environment.
  • Willingness and ability to travel.
  • The ideal candidate must possess demonstrated cultural competency and the ability to collaborate effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.  Candidates should also have proven experience and/or relevant education specifically related to working within the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USPACOM) area of responsibility.  Familiarity with the unique geopolitical, social, and cultural dynamics of the USPACOM region is essential for successfully performing in this role.

 

Desired Qualifications: 

  • Master's Degree with 10 years of related experience; or a PhD and seven (7) years in a related technical discipline is highly desired.
  • Experience working in customer environment.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of Customer's processes and procedures to minimize the learning curve for project/task navigation.
  • Demonstrated effective client management skills to include experience managing across offices and organizations.
  • Relevant Cultural and language competency is highly desired.

 

Salary Range Estimates:

The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of Peraton's total compensation package for employees. Other rewards may include annual bonuses, short- and long-term incentives, and program-specific awards. In addition, Peraton provides a variety of benefits to employees.

Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range$146,000 - $234,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.EEOEEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017