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Signal Processing Engineer Jobs in Columbia, MD (NOW HIRING)

As a EW Senior Signal Processing Engineer, you will be responsible for research, design, and development of signal collection, processing and dissemination systems . Duties may include de signing ...

Leidos currently has an opening for a Junior Signal Processing Engineer to support EW programs in Arlington, VA or San Diego, CA. As part of our team, you will focus on improving the robustness and ...

As an EW Senior Signal Processing Engineer, you will be responsible for research, design, and development of signal collection, processing and dissemination systems . Duties may include de signing ...

Leidos currently has an opening for a Junior Signal Processing Engineer to support EW programs in Arlington, VA or San Diego, CA. As part of our team, you will focus on improving the robustness and ...

As an EW Senior Signal Processing Engineer, you will be responsible for research, design, and development of signal collection, processing and dissemination systems . Duties may include de signing ...

As a EW Senior Signal Processing Engineer, you will be responsible for research, design, and development of signal collection, processing and dissemination systems . Duties may include de signing ...

As a EW Senior Signal Processing Engineer, you will be responsible for research, design, and development of signal collection, processing and dissemination systems . Duties may include de signing ...

As an EW Senior Signal Processing Engineer, you will be responsible for research, design, and development of signal collection, processing and dissemination systems . Duties may include de signing ...

Showing results 21-40

Signal Processing Engineer information

See Columbia, MD salary details

$53.1K

$130.3K

$192K

How much do signal processing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for signal processing engineer in Columbia, MD is $130,350.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,700.00 and $146,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a signal processing engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Signal Processing Engineer, you need a strong background in mathematics, digital signal processing theory, and programming, typically supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as MATLAB, Python, DSP hardware platforms, and relevant certifications like Certified LabVIEW Developer are highly beneficial. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure accurate analysis, efficient design, and successful implementation of signal processing solutions in diverse technical environments.

What is the difference between Signal Processing Engineer vs Communications Engineer?

AspectSignal Processing EngineerCommunications Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Signal Processing, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Communications, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, tech companies, R&D departmentsTelecom companies, network providers, infrastructure firms
Industry UsageDesigning algorithms for audio, video, radar, and sensor dataDeveloping and maintaining communication systems and networks
Search & Comparison IntentFocuses on signal analysis, filtering, and data processingFocuses on network design, protocols, and transmission systems

While both roles involve electrical engineering principles, Signal Processing Engineers primarily develop algorithms for analyzing and filtering signals, whereas Communications Engineers focus on designing and maintaining communication systems and networks. The roles often overlap in telecommunications, but their core responsibilities differ based on the specific application and industry focus.

What does a signal processing engineer do?

A Signal Processing Engineer designs, develops, and implements algorithms and systems to analyze, modify, and interpret signals such as audio, video, radar, or sensor data. They work with both analog and digital signals to extract meaningful information, improve signal quality, and enable communication between devices. Their work is essential in industries like telecommunications, healthcare (medical imaging), audio engineering, and defense. Signal Processing Engineers often use programming languages like MATLAB or Python, and work closely with hardware and software teams to optimize system performance.

What does a signal processing engineer do?

A signal processing engineer is an information technologies expert that analyzes and alters digital signals to make them more accurate and reliable. As a signal processing engineer, your responsibilities are to develop, manage and update digital signals, creating algorithms to process them more efficiently. Qualifications for a signal processing engineer include a bachelor’s degree in electrical or computer engineering, math, or physics, and skills in various programming languages, like C++. You can find signal processing engineer jobs in a wide variety of industries from security to logistics.

What are some typical challenges signal processing engineers face when working on real-time systems?

Signal Processing Engineers working on real-time systems often encounter challenges related to processing speed, latency, and resource constraints. They must design algorithms that efficiently handle large volumes of data without sacrificing accuracy, all while operating within the hardware's computational limits. Collaborating closely with hardware engineers and software developers is common to ensure seamless integration and optimal system performance. Staying updated with the latest advancements in digital signal processing (DSP) tools and techniques also helps address these challenges effectively.
What are popular job titles related to Signal Processing Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD? For Signal Processing Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Signal Processing Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Signal Processing Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD are:
What cities near Columbia, MD are hiring for Signal Processing Engineer jobs? Cities near Columbia, MD with the most Signal Processing Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Signal Processing Engineer job openings in Columbia, MD as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $130,350 per year, or $62.7 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 73 rated research


Job description

Description
Do you have expertise in the research and development of signal or image processing algorithms?
Would you like to use that expertise to help advance U.S. Navy electromagnetic systems for national security missions?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join us at APL.
We are looking for a driven Signal and Image Processing Engineer to join us in pushing the boundaries of digital signal and image processing techniques to advance electromagnetic system capabilities supporting government and military maritime missions. We are a team of engineers, mathematicians, and scientists who seek to characterize and understand sensor data in order to detect, classify, and localize signatures in complex environments. Our group's dynamic expertise enables us to solve a wide range of radar, electronic warfare (EW), remote sensing, and signal processing problems for maritime missions. As a member of the team, you will develop innovative algorithms, prototypes, and analysis products that provide greater situational awareness and operational utility to the warfighter.
As a Signal and Image Processing Engineer you will...
  • Design, implement, and evaluate signal and image processing algorithms to extract information from sensor systems.
  • Develop advanced filtering, detection, estimation, tracking, and classification algorithms using simulated and real data in temporal, spatial, and/or spectral domains.
  • Evaluate real-world performance of current algorithms and make recommendations for further development to improve performance.
  • Combine specialized knowledge and the latest advances in signal processing to apply fresh perspectives to existing and new challenges for our sponsors.
  • Participate in all aspects of the algorithm development life cycle, from data curation through deployment to performance benchmarking.
  • Clearly communicate findings through well-written code, presentations, and technical reports.
  • Expand your knowledge of electromagnetic systems and the maritime domain.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Possess a BS degree in electrical engineering, mathematics, physics, computer science, or another related field.
  • Have experience applying signal processing, image processing, pattern recognition, machine learning, deep learning, or related techniques to extract meaningful information from sensors.
  • Have experience prototyping algorithms using MATLAB or Python.
  • Have proven analytical and problem-solving skills, can work independently, and will be comfortable working in closed area facilities.
  • Hold an active Top Secret security clearance.and can ultimately obtain a TS/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 an MS in electrical engineering, mathematics, physics, computer science, or another related field.
  • Have 3 or more years of experience applying signal processing, pattern recognition, machine learning, deep learning, or related techniques to extract meaningful information from electromagnetic systems.
  • Have strong working knowledge of remote sensing phenomenology in one or more modalities such as EO/IR, SAR, MSI/HSI, or radar.
  • Have experience building trusted relationships with technical staff members and collaborating with external DoD or IC organizations.
  • Have strong communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to write and present technical topics to peers, managers, and government sponsors.
  • Are capable of shepherding algorithms through the full life cycle from initial conception and prototyping through high-performance implementation, deployment, benchmarking, and validation and verification (V&V).

#LI-AG1
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 at https://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 contact Accessibility@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
$85,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$195,000 Annually

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