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Signal Processing Research Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

POSITION SPECIFICS We are searching for motivated and talented Signal Processing Research and Development Engineers to join our Sensor Analysis and Data Modeling (SADM) Department at the Applied ...

The Pennsylvania State University

$121K - $231K/yr

POSITION SPECIFICS We are searching for a motivated and talented Signal Processing Research and Development Engineer to join the Acoustic Data Science Department at the Applied Research Laboratory ...

The Pennsylvania State University

POSITION SPECIFICS We are searching for a technically strong Communications and Signal Processing Engineer to join the C3I Integrated Communications Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL ...

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Signal Processing Research Engineer information

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$53.5K

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How much do signal processing research engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for signal processing research engineer in the United States is $131,349.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,500.00 and $147,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a signal processing research engineer do?

A Signal Processing Research Engineer designs, develops, and implements algorithms and systems that analyze and manipulate signals such as audio, video, radar, or biomedical data. Their work often involves researching new techniques for filtering, compressing, or extracting information from signals to improve performance in various applications. They collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to solve complex problems in fields like telecommunications, medical imaging, and machine learning. Typically, they use programming languages such as MATLAB or Python and apply advanced mathematical concepts to their work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a signal processing research engineer?

To thrive as a Signal Processing Research Engineer, you need a strong background in mathematics, digital signal processing theory, and typically a graduate degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Proficiency with MATLAB, Python, and signal analysis libraries, as well as experience using simulation and modeling tools, is essential. Analytical thinking, creativity, and effective communication are vital soft skills for developing innovative solutions and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure accurate research outcomes, efficient problem-solving, and the advancement of cutting-edge signal processing technologies.

What are some common challenges faced by signal processing research engineers when developing new algorithms?

Signal Processing Research Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring algorithm robustness in real-world noisy environments, optimizing computational efficiency for real-time applications, and validating performance across diverse datasets. Balancing innovative approaches with practical hardware constraints can also be demanding. Effective collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as software developers and domain specialists, is essential to successfully integrate new algorithms into larger systems.

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

AspectSignal Processing Research EngineerSignal Processing Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's/Master's/PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, academiaProduct development teams, engineering departments, industry settings
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, tech companies, universitiesTech companies, telecommunications, consumer electronics
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Signal Processing Research Engineer and a Signal Processing Engineer lies in their focus and work environment. Research Engineers primarily engage in developing new algorithms and conducting experiments in research settings, often holding advanced degrees. Signal Processing Engineers typically work on implementing and optimizing signal processing solutions within products and systems in industry. Both roles require strong technical skills, but their day-to-day tasks and objectives differ significantly.

More about Signal Processing Research Engineer jobs

What job categories do people searching Signal Processing Research Engineer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Signal Processing Research Engineer jobs are:

Signal Processing Research Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Signal Processing Research Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,349 per year, or $63.1 per hour.

Sr Signal Processing Research Engineer II

Starkey Hearing Technologies

Eden Prairie, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Starkey rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 159 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

Join a world-class research team developing advanced digital signal processing algorithms that power the next generation of AI-enabled hearing technology. In this role at Starkey, you will lead innovative signal processing and machine learning research as part of the Algorithms Group. Beyond individual project work, you will partner with other project leads to plan and execute collaborations between the Algorithms Group and multidisciplinary engineering teams across Starkey. Together, you will translate breakthrough ideas into commercial products and contribute to patents and technologies that improve the lives of millions worldwide.
Starkey is a world leader in the manufacturing and distribution of advanced hearing technologies. We are in the business of connecting people and changing lives. Our teams come to work each day focused on ensuring people everywhere have the products and services they need to hear better and live better.
Founded in 1967 by Bill Austin, Starkey is known for our cutting-edge hearing health innovations, industry-leading research and development, and not being afraid to push the edge of what's possible.
We are headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, have over 5,000 employees in 29 facilities across the globe, and do business in more than 100 markets worldwide.
Watch this video to see more of what sets Starkey apart:
https://youtu.be/9cUYwTlCepg?si=wkovx8_R_iINfrc6
JOB SUMMARY DESCRIPTION / PRIMARY PURPOSE OF JOB
Join a world-class research team developing advanced digital signal processing algorithms that power the next generation of AI-enabled hearing technology. In this role at Starkey, you will lead innovative signal processing and machine learning research as part of the Algorithms Group. Beyond individual project work, you will partner with other project leads to plan and execute collaborations between the Algorithms Group and multidisciplinary engineering teams across Starkey. Together, you will translate breakthrough ideas into commercial products and contribute to patents and technologies that improve the lives of millions worldwide.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES/RESULTS
  • Research digital signal processing algorithms for hearing aids

    • Propose the research project plan
    • Review the existing literature, competitive products, and patents
    • Propose a set of algorithm candidates
    • Prototype the algorithm candidates using simulation and/or various research platforms
    • Evaluate the algorithm candidates based on a combination of laboratory evaluation, field evaluation and benchmarking
    • Select the final algorithm
    • Generate the research report

  • Actively work with product development groups to bring the research results to products

    • Coordinate with the product development groups to transfer the research results to products
    • Provide input to the firmware requirements definition
    • Work with the DSP technology engineers to identify and make the design tradeoffs
    • Provide technical support to the clinical validation effort
    • Providing technical training to product development group members

  • Provide technical leadership in various research and development activities

    • Demonstrate technical expertise in one or more major signal processing algorithms
    • Serve as a principal investigator for one or more research projects
    • Provide technical consultation to junior engineers
    • Actively monitor, identify, and propose new research and development opportunities
    • Work with the management to maintain and enhance the group dynamics and processes

  • Participate in and contribute to general DSP research and development activities

    • Participate in and contribute to the relevant professional conferences
    • Participate in and contribute to the DSP Journal Seminar
    • Participate in and contribute to the competitive analysis efforts
    • Participate in and contribute to the benchmarking efforts
    • Participate in and contribute to the intellectual property related activities, such as patents

JOB REQUIREMENTS
Education
  • Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field required.

Experience
  • Senior Engineer II: A minimum of 3 years of applicable experience is required for candidates with a Ph.D. degree

Knowledge / Technical Requirements
  • Advanced knowledge of digital signal processing and its applications required
  • Knowledge of acoustics required
  • Knowledge of audio signal processing required
  • Knowledge of closed-loop acoustic control required
  • Knowledge of electro-acoustic systems modelling desirable
  • Knowledge of hearing aid desirable
  • Knowledge of cochlear implant desirable
  • Knowledge of psychoacoustics desirable

Competencies, Skills & Abilities
  • Proficiency in Matlab, Python, and C/C++ required
  • Good verbal and written communication skills required
  • Good interpersonal skills are required
  • Technical leadership required
  • Proficiency in numerical reasoning and analysis required
  • Proficiency in troubleshooting required
  • Attention to details required
  • Background in real-time signal processing desirable
  • Background in fixed-point algorithm desirable

Salary and Other Compensation:
The target pay rate for this position is between $124,000 - $189,000 annually. Factors which may affect starting pay within this range may include: geography/market, skills, education, experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.
This position is eligible for a bonus based upon performance results. There is no guarantee of payout.
The following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements, include medical, dental and vision insurance, 401(k) retirement plan with company match, company-paid life and short-term disability insurance, long-term disability insurance, employee assistance plan, hearing aid benefits, Paid Time Off, paid holidays, paid floating holidays, paid volunteer service day, paid paternity and maternity leave and tuition reimbursement.
#LI-MP1
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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