Staff Radar Engineer
$191,000–$253,000 year
On-siteCosta Mesa, California, United States
Job Summary
Lead systems architecture and mode development for airborne radar systems across manned and unmanned platforms, driving end-to-end design from concept through operational deployment. Develop and implement advanced radar processing algorithms focusing on DSP, waveform design, and electronic protection techniques, while designing SAR, ISAR, GMTI, and air-to-air tracking modes. Provide technical leadership in software development for real-time processing and engage directly with government customers to translate mission requirements into technical solutions. Mentor team members in radar theory and systems engineering, collaborate on architectures for airborne systems-of-systems, and support programmatic leadership with strategic technical expertise.
Required Qualifications
- 12+ years of experience
- Bachelor's degree in mathematics, physics, engineering, or other technical field
- Proven experience in a Staff or Principal-level technical leadership role developing operational airborne defense radar systems
- Deep expertise in airborne radar systems engineering, mode development, and software architecture
- Strong background in algorithm development, digital signal processing, and electronic protection techniques
- End-to-end radar systems experience spanning hardware, software, and operational deployment
- Demonstrated ability to work directly with operational customers and translate mission needs into technical requirements
- Operationally-focused mindset with experience fielding systems in real-world environments (not purely academic/research focused)
- Eligible to obtain and maintain an active Secret security clearance
Desired Qualifications
- advanced degree
- Experience at Chief Systems Engineer or Technical Fellow level on major radar programs
- Strong software development skills with proficiency in MATLAB, Python, and C++ for real-time radar systems
- Expertise in digital beamforming, AESA technology, cognitive radar, or adaptive waveform techniques for airborne applications
- Hands-on experience as a technical contributor in radar algorithm implementation and mode development
- Direct experience supporting Air Force, Navy, Army, or Special Operations Command on airborne ISR or weapons systems programs
- Track record of customer-facing technical leadership and program execution
- Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility or willingness to obtain
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