Job Description
About the Team:
The Maritime Domain Awareness Group (MDA) develops and delivers advanced signal processing algorithms and techniques for airborne radar and passive optical systems.
MDA fosters a culture of innovation collaboration and execution. We develop and analyze cutting edge algorithms for detection and exploitation of signals in high clutter and noise environments using both classical physics-based approaches and big data-driven artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) techniques. If you are seeking an opportunity to apply your deep technical knowledge and creativity in a fast-paced challenging environment to make a lasting impact we invite you to join us.
The Role:
We are looking for a Senior Scientist to develop state-of-the-art algorithms and techniques for airborne passive optical systems for the purpose of detection and exploitation of targets with low signal to noise ratios. You will apply first principles of physics to model and simulate realistic environments to develop a deep understanding of clutter environments and then apply that knowledge to develop all relevant components of the signal processing chain from the raw sensor data to the target classification.
What you will do:
- Work closely with program leadership to spearhead efforts that align with program and company priorities
- Conceive prototype test and mature image processing algorithms for critical national security missions
- Document and present products to a community of scientists and subject matter experts
Who You Are:
- Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance for which U.S. citizenship is needed by U.S. Government
- BA or MS in Physics Applied Mathematics Electrical Engineering or related technical discipline
- 3-5+ years of relevant work experience
- Expertise in two or more of the following areas:
- Signal processing Fourier analysis linear estimation optimization adaptive signal processing AI/ML algorithm development algorithm development modeling & simulation systems engineering optics modelling
- Experience building and delivering technical briefs to peers senior level executives and customers
- Proficiency in one or more scientific or mathematical programming languages such as MATLAB Python and C/C++
- Experienced researcher and team member who is excited to work with mission partners to leverage cutting-edge technology and research for immediate impact
- Excellent communicator and briefer who is comfortable communicating with both technical and non-technical audiences
- Strong mathematical written and verbal communication skills
Even Better:
- Active Secret or TS/SCI Clearance
- Demonstrated leadership of complex research development and engineering efforts
- Experience with:
- Passive optical technologies in the defense sector particularly airborne downward-looking sensors
- Computer vision techniques such as feature identification/matching/tracking optical flow background subtraction etc
- Interacting with decision-makers and customers to translate mission needs into an end-to-end solution
- Demonstrated ability to conceive prototype test and mature novel algorithms for challenging sensors
Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $139000 - $180000
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 [email protected] 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.
Skills Required
- BA or MS in Physics Applied Mathematics Electrical Engineering or related technical discipline
- 3-5+ years of relevant work experience
- Expertise in signal processing AI/ML algorithm development or optics modelling
- Proficiency in programming languages such as MATLAB Python and C/C++
- Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance
What the Team is Saying
STR Compensation & Benefits Highlights
- Healthcare Strength—Health coverage is described as “great” across medical dental and vision for employees and families. Feedback suggests core healthcare is a defining strength of the package.
- Retirement Support—Retirement support features a “generous 401k matching” alongside long‑term savings elements. Feedback suggests these offerings bolster financial security beyond base pay.
- Flexible Benefits—Flexible schedules and “meeting‑free Fridays” are emphasized to support balance. Feedback suggests day‑to‑day flexibility is a tangible part of the total rewards.
STR Insights
What We Do
STR makes the world a safer place by developing technology and applying it to solve emerging national security challenges.
Why Work With Us
We believe in a people-first culture. Yes we are scientists engineers and researchers but first we are people. Our environment is designed to foster innovation by encouraging our employees to work collaboratively on things they are passionate about. We also really like to have fun. We believe that working hard and playing hard go hand in hand.
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Date Posted
05/15/2026
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