Senior SAR Signal and Image Processing Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space. At the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country’s space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration.   With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions.  Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD! The Radar Processing and Analysis Department is based in Chantilly, VA. We specialize in SAR image formation processing, SAR system performance modeling and analysis, moving target indications (MTI) and tracking, maritime surveillance techniques, electronic protection applications, complex data processor development, and advanced processing algorithms. Many of our projects are done in collaboration with the Radar and Signal Systems Department, our MPD counterpart in El Segundo, CA. We are looking for experienced SAR Signal & Image Processing Engineers to grow our department of highly skilled technical specialists. Join us today to become part of a culture and legacy of engineering innovation, technical excellence, and ground-breaking contributions to our nation’s defense and intelligence capabilities! The selected candidate will be required to work full time on-site at our facility at Chantilly, VA. What You’ll Be Doing Develop and advance signal and image processing techniques to exploit the full value of SAR complex phase history data Create and evolve SAR data processors to improve product quality and investigate innovative applications of advanced radar algorithms.  Evaluate SAR data utility for high-resolution radar imagery, MTI, maritime search and surveillance, and electronic protection applications. Model and analyze the performance of SAR payload concepts, designs, prototypes, and flight hardware to support the government customers’ research and technology, program planning, acquisition, and operations activities. Mentor early and mid-career engineers within RPAD to maintain our strong foundation of SAR processing and analysis knowledge and skills Serve as the integration leader and the principal technical representative to customers for a portfolio of large, multi-phase, multi-disciplinary projects. What You Need to be Successful – Senior Engineering Specialist Minimum Requirements: Advanced degree from an accredited program in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Geophysics or related technical discipline 10 or more years of relevant complex RF signal and/or image processing experience Strong background in advanced mathematics including Fourier transforms, differential equations, and estimation theory Experience with modeling and simulation of complex SAR or radar system performance. Proven experience as an integration leader and coordinator of technical teams This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance How You Can Stand Out   It would be impressive if you have one or more of these: Current and active Top Secret/SCI security clearance  PhD from an accredited program in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Geophysics, Imaging Sciences or related technical discipline Experience with SAR for MTI detection and tracking applications Familiarity with design and development of space qualified SAR antennas, payloads, or sensors Demonstrated success as the principal technical representative to a government customer We offer a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business.  The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below.  Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills. (Min - Max) $166,400.00 - $249,600.00 Pay Basis: Annual Leadership Competencies Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who: Operate Strategically Lead Change    Engage with Impact    Foster Innovation    Deliver Results   Ways We Reward Our Employees During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits. Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type.  A few highlights include: Comprehensive health care and wellness plans Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire Flexible spending accounts Variable pay program for exceptional contributions Relocation assistance Professional gr