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Signal Processing Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Lead Signal Processing Researcher

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$173K - $216K/yr

As a Lead Signal Processing Researcher, you will create and lead technical teams that develop, test, integrate, and demonstrate novel signal processing, optimization, and machine learning algorithms ...

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Signal Processing information

See Virginia salary details

$53K

$130.2K

$191.8K

How much do signal processing jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for signal processing in Virginia is $130,222.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,600.00 and $146,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Signal Processing position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Signal Processing, a strong background in mathematics, digital signal processing algorithms, and relevant engineering or computer science degrees is essential. Familiarity with tools such as MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW, and industry-standard DSP hardware platforms, as well as certifications in signal processing or related fields, is often required. Sharp analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills are highly valued. These competencies enable professionals to design, analyze, and optimize systems that process real-world signals efficiently and accurately.

What is a Signal Processing job?

A Signal Processing job involves analyzing, modifying, and interpreting signals, such as audio, video, sensor data, or electromagnetic waves, to extract useful information or improve their quality. Professionals in this field apply mathematical and algorithmic techniques to filter noise, compress data, and enhance signal clarity. They work in industries like telecommunications, medical imaging, audio processing, and radar systems. Typical tasks may include designing filters, implementing machine learning models for pattern recognition, and optimizing digital communication systems. Knowledge of programming languages like MATLAB or Python and expertise in digital signal processing (DSP) techniques are often required.

What can I do with signal processing?

Signal processing professionals analyze, modify, and interpret signals such as audio, video, and sensor data to improve communication, data transmission, and system performance. They use tools like MATLAB, Python, and specialized hardware to develop algorithms for filtering, compression, and noise reduction, often working in industries like telecommunications, audio engineering, and medical imaging.

Is signal processing a good career?

Signal processing is a specialized field within engineering and computer science that involves analyzing, modifying, and interpreting signals such as audio, video, and sensor data. It offers opportunities in industries like telecommunications, aerospace, and healthcare, often requiring knowledge of algorithms, programming, and tools like MATLAB or Python. The career can be stable and well-paying for those with relevant skills and advanced education.

Will DSP be replaced by AI?

Digital Signal Processing (DSP) is a fundamental skill for signal processing professionals, and while AI techniques are increasingly integrated into signal analysis, DSP skills remain essential for designing and implementing real-time systems. AI can augment DSP tasks but does not fully replace the need for expertise in traditional signal processing methods and tools. Signal processing roles often require knowledge of algorithms, hardware, and software, which are complementary to AI advancements.

What are some common career paths for professionals in Signal Processing?

Signal Processing professionals often start as engineers or analysts, working on tasks like algorithm development, filtering, and noise reduction in applications such as telecommunications, audio, or radar systems. With experience, individuals can progress to roles such as senior engineer, project lead, or research scientist, and may branch into areas like embedded systems, machine learning, or systems architecture. The field frequently offers opportunities to collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including hardware engineers, software developers, and data scientists. Advancing your education, obtaining specialized certifications, or gaining expertise in emerging technologies can further enhance your career prospects in this dynamic and evolving discipline.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, or aerospace engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, bonuses, and stock options. High-level roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities.
What are the most commonly searched types of Signal Processing jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Signal Processing jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Signal Processing jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Signal Processing job openings:
Infographic showing various Signal Processing job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,222 per year, or $62.6 per hour.
Senior Algorithm & Signal Processing Researcher

Senior Algorithm & Signal Processing Researcher

STR

Arlington, VA โ€ข On-site, Remote

$139K - $170K/yr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

About the Team:

The Sensors Division at STR focuses on technology development for advanced sensor systems and platforms in support of national security requirements. Our particular focus areas include airborne/spaceborne/surface-based radar, electronic warfare, underwater acoustics, hyperspectral imaging, and EO/IR sensing. To support these missions, the Division's efforts span multiple technical areas, including RF analog/digital hardware, acoustic hardware, signal processing algorithms, machine learning algorithms, systems analysis, and real-time embedded processor implementation.

The Algorithms, Processing and Experimentation (APEX) Group specializes in development of RF/radar modes, skills and applications, with particular emphasis on advanced signal processing chains and associated algorithm research. We mature these technologies with the objective of implementation, integration, and eventual utility in RF-based systems, typically tailoring our work for highly specific Defense (e.g., Air Force, Space Force, Navy, DARPA, etc.) and Intelligence Community needs.

About the Role:

As a Senior Algorithm and Signal Processing Engineer, you will develop, implement, test, and demonstrate novel signal processing, optimization, and machine learning algorithms for advanced electronic warfare, radar, and remote sensing applications. You will work as part of multidisciplinary teams to research next-generation sensing concepts and transition advanced algorithms into integrated systems for laboratory and field demonstrations.

A successful candidate will have expertise in one or more of the following areas: signal processing, adaptive radar signal processing, optimization, machine learning, electronic warfare, algorithm development, radar systems, communications systems, RF remote sensing, resource management, modeling and simulation, or related technical fields. This position requires strong analytical skills, scientific programming experience, and the ability to collaborate with researchers, engineers, and customers to solve challenging technical problems.

What You Will Do

  • Develop advanced sensing concepts, signal processing algorithms, and machine learning techniques for radar, electronic warfare, and remote sensing applications
  • Research, design, implement, and evaluate novel algorithms from concept through demonstration
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to architect, develop, integrate, and test advanced RF signal processing systems
  • Support modeling and simulation activities to evaluate algorithm performance and inform system design
  • Plan and execute laboratory and field testing to assess algorithm performance and transition research into operational prototypes.
  • Contribute to technical proposals, customer interactions, presentations, and technical briefings
  • Survey emerging research and incorporate state-of-the-art techniques into practical algorithm solutions.

Who You Are

  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance, for which U.S. citizenship is required by the U.S. government
  • PhD, MS, or BS in Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline with 2-5+ years relevant experience
  • Strong programming skills in MATLAB, Python, C/C++, or similar scientific computing languages
  • Strong mathematical, analytical, troubleshooting, written, and verbal communication skills
  • Experience developing, implementing, testing, or analyzing signal processing, optimization, or machine learning algorithms
  • Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences
  • Ability to translate research objectives and customer needs into practical technical solutions

Even Better

  • Active Top Secret security clearance
  • Experience with radar systems, RF remote sensing, electronic warfare, or communications systems
  • Experience with adaptive signal processing, waveform design, multidimensional signal processing, resource management, or system optimization
  • Experience developing algorithms for real-time or embedded systems
  • Experience with modeling and simulation, algorithm integration, and system test and evaluation
  • Experience with software development and scientific computing workflows
  • Ability to survey technical literature, identify emerging approaches, and transition research into integrated, tested solutions

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $139,000 - $170,000

The salary range listed is based on external market data. Offers are based on factors, such as but not limited to, the candidate's experience, education, training, key skills/critical skills, security clearances, and prevailing market and business conditions.