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 Principal Signal Processing Researcher, you will create and lead technical teams that develop, test, integrate, and demonstrate novel signal processing, optimization, and machine learning algorithms for advanced electronic warfare and sensor applications.
A successful candidate will have demonstrated leadership skills and substantial expertise in several of the following areas: optimization, electronic warfare, adaptive signal processing, machine learning, algorithm development, algorithm integration, test & evaluation, model & simulation, systems engineering, radar systems, or communications systems. This position requires skills working as part of and leading multi-disciplinary teams designing, analyzing, integrating, and demonstrating signal processing algorithms for complex systems.
What you will do:
- Develop electronic warfare and radar system concepts, signal processing and machine learning algorithms, and RF solutions to remote sensing challenges
- Provide technical leadership to small, multi-disciplinary teams that develop, implement, test, and integrate novel sensing, electronic warfare, and signal processing systems
- Direct Modeling and Simulation activities of advanced RF systems in support of algorithm development, test, and integration
- Plan and support algorithm test and evaluation activities, including performance assessment in laboratory and field environments
- Clearly communicate with customers, stakeholders, sponsors, prime- and subcontractors
Who you are:
- Active Security Clearance, with eligibility to support special access programs, for which US Citizenship is required by the US government
- PhD, MS, or BS in Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or related technical discipline with 8–10+ years of relevant experience depending on degree
- Strong scientific programming skills including Matlab, Python, Simulink and/or C/C++
- Strong communication skills and the ability to describe complex technical concepts to fellow researchers as well as to non-technical people
- Ability to translate customer requirements to determine research focus
- Ability to create and present deep technical briefings as well as high-level briefings to Customers and senior management
- Experience with designing, implementing, testing, and analyzing ML/AI algorithms
- Strong understanding of radar architectures, waveforms, modes, and RF signal chains
Even Better:
- Current TS/SSBI with SCI and ability to gain and hold SCI/SAP accreditations
- Experience with advanced RF system concepts, signal processing, open architectures, and systems integration
- Experience in Software Development
- Ability to survey literature to determine state-of-the-art, incorporate recent research, and transition it into integrated, tested solutions
- Understanding and experience interacting with decision-makers and customers to translate mission needs into an end-to-end, integrated analytical solution
Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $206,000 - $284,000
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.
STR is a growing technology company with locations near Boston, MA, Arlington, VA, near Dayton, OH, Melbourne, FL, and Carlsbad, CA. We specialize in advanced research and development for defense, intelligence, and national security in: cyber; next generation sensors, radar, sonar, communications, and electronic warfare; and artificial intelligence algorithms and analytics to make sense of the complexity that is exploding around us.
STR is committed to creating a collaborative learning environment that supports deep technical understanding and recognizes the contributions and achievements of all team members. Our work is challenging, and we go home at night knowing that we pushed the envelope of technology and made the world safer.
STR is not just any company. Our people, culture, and attitude along with their unique set of skills, experiences, and perspectives put us on a trajectory to change the world. We can't do it alone, though - we need fellow trailblazers. If you are one, join our team and help to keep our society safe! Visit us at www.str.us for more info.
STR is an equal opportunity employer. We are fully dedicated to hiring the most qualified candidate regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any portion of the employment process, email us at appassist@str.us and provide your contact info.
Pursuant to applicable federal law and regulations, positions at STR require employees to obtain national security clearances and satisfy the requirements for compliance with export control and other applicable laws.
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Frequently asked questions
Q: What skills or qualities help someone succeed as a Principal Scientist?
A: To succeed as a Principal Scientist, one should possess strong technical skills such as expertise in a specific domain or field, proficiency in experimental design and data analysis, and the ability to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements and technologies. Additionally, essential soft skills include excellent communication and collaboration skills, the ability to lead and mentor junior scientists, and strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities. By combining these technical and soft skills, a Principal Scientist can effectively drive innovation, lead research teams, and make significant contributions to their organization, ultimately supporting their career growth and effectiveness in the role.
Q: What is the career path for a Principal Scientist?
A: A Principal Scientist typically follows a career progression from entry-level roles such as Research Scientist or Senior Research Scientist, to mid-level positions like Senior Principal Scientist or Group Leader, and eventually to senior roles like Principal Scientist or Director of Research. Throughout their career, Principal Scientists have opportunities for skill development in areas like leadership, project management, and strategic planning, as well as professional growth through networking, publishing research, and mentoring junior scientists. Long-term, Principal Scientists may pursue leadership roles in industry, academia, or government, or transition into roles like Chief Scientific Officer or Vice President of Research and Development.
