Principal Radar Mode Architect

The Systems Development Division (SDD) delivers technology advantage into users’ hands by delivering capabilities focused on end-customer needs that function in operationally relevant environments and timeframes.  SDD considers the entire lifecycle of the solution, from conceptualization and architecting, through development, to deployment, while leveraging novel technologies to deliver first-of-a-kind systems.  Current efforts include programs for airborne and space RF as well as advanced testing enabled by multi-function, multi-modal capabilities.

SDD is seeking a Principal Radar Mode Architect to support the architecting, design, development, and implementation of algorithms in software and hardware for advanced multi-function Radar systems. You will collaborate with fellow researchers and engineers on multi-disciplinary teams to interpret and understand customer objectives and develop innovative solutions. You may direct and/or lead development efforts and junior engineers, as needed, in areas of focus including exploration and demonstration of Radar and EW/RF convergence. 

In this role, you will design and implement signal processing algorithms over the complete signal processing chain for radar applications in various operational environments, with a primary focus on Air-to-Air applications.  Central to this role is optimizing radar performance through motion compensation and navigation design implementation, waveform design, pulse compression, and application of target detection and engagement techniques. 

You will conduct performance analysis through simulations and real-world testing to validate and optimize the products you create.  Additionally, you will support efforts to evaluate current and future capabilities, identify improved applications and techniques, and ultimately recommend solutions.  Since the systems SDD develops are deployed in operationally relevant environments, the products you develop need to meet standards of quality, maintainability, and reuse.  This position will offer the opportunity for technical leadership, project planning, design, analysis, development, testing, and fielding of capabilities.

The successful candidate will have demonstrated leadership skills and expertise in areas such as: radar, algorithms, systems engineering, and test & evaluation. This position requires skills in working with multi-disciplinary teams, managing design, development, and test activities, as well as proficiency in relevant technologies. Strong interpersonal, communication, technical, and peer-leadership skills are also required.  Applicants are expected to be self-motivated, detail oriented and have a demonstrated ability to effectively communicate with all levels of management and individual contributors on the program team through strong written and verbal communication skills. 

What you will do:

• Develop innovative radar mode architectures. Initial focus is on Air-to-Air applications and other domains may also be addressed
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define system requirements and specifications for radar modes, and ensure seamless integration and interoperability
• Design and implement signal processing algorithms for Air-to-Air radar modes, ensuring optimal performance in various operational environments
• Analyze, implement, and optimize motion compensation and navigation, waveform design, pulse compression, and target detection and engagement techniques
• Lead the development of robust tracking algorithms
• Conduct performance analysis through simulations and real-world testing to validate and optimize radar modes
• Identify areas for improvement and implement enhancements
• Prepare comprehensive documentation, design specifications, test plans, and reports
• Lead the assigned task/team, manage budget and schedule, ensure milestones are met
• Communicate effectively with internal teams, stakeholders, and customers to convey technical concepts and project updates

Who you are:

• This position requires an Active Secret security clearance and eligible to obtain Top Secret clearance, for which U.S. citizenship is needed by U.S. Government
• Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, Radar Systems, or related technical field
• Expert understanding of and experience with Radar systems (including beam forming) and their principles of design, development, requirements verification, test planning, test execution, and data analysis
• Expert understanding of developing and implementing radar modes, specifically in air-to-air applications
• In-depth knowledge of signal processing and tracking
• Proficiency in radar simulation tools, MATLAB, and programming languages (e.g., C++, Python, Rust, etc)
• Capable of working in a team environment and interacting with decision-makers, customers, and team members to ensure effective communication and alignment
• Mentoring and providing career development direction to junior engineers
• Experience in preparing and delivering briefings to diverse audiences
• Familiarity with the execution of technical reviews (SRRs, PDRs, CDRs, TIMS)
• Demonstrated experience in leadership and management, especially of multi-disciplinary teams, and delivery of advanced development projects
• Background should include a Bachelor’s degree and at least 10 years of applicable experience; Master’s degree and at least 8 years of applicable experience; or PhD and at least 5 years of applicable experience. Equivalent experience will be considered

Nice to Haves:

• Active Top Secret clearance
• Experience with algorithm optimization for real time systems, especially radar and/or remote sensing
• Domain expertise in one or more of the following areas: Electronic Warfare, Antenna Apertures, Sensor Resource Management, Large-Scale Platform Test Systems, Cyber Physical Systems, Open System Architectures (UCI, OMS, COARPS)