Chief Scientist

About the Team:

The Sensors Division at STR focuses on technology development for advanced sensor systems, particularly in the areas of airborne/surface-based radar, electronic warfare, underwater acoustics, hyperspectral imaging, and EO/IR sensing. Within this role, we perform work on full system prototypes, experiment campaigns and technology component development. Roles within the Sensors Division include RF analog/digital hardware, acoustic hardware, signal processing algorithms, machine learning algorithms, tracking/fusion, as well as real-time embedded processor implementation.

The Systems Autonomy, Analysis, and Modeling (SAAM) Group within the Sensors Division uses modeling and simulation to create and analyze system architectures and designs and their mission impact. We focus on the capability and limitations of ground, air, and space sensing and counter-sensing platforms (both crewed and uncrewed) and the resource management of these assets in the service of the survivability and capability of US air and space assets (e.g., the F-35 Joint Simulation Environment) using the methods of operational and systems analysis. SAAM is developing software and hardware tools and datasets to support these analyses, including algorithms, processing chains, and scenarios to inform and deploy onto prototype demonstration systems as well as operational systems. Our main customer focus is on Air Force, Navy, and DARPA research programs.

The Role:

The SAAM Group is seeking a PhD-level, Systems-Engineering-focused Chief Scientist to research, design, develop and implement a portfolio of capabilities to characterize the impact of advanced concepts and algorithms on the performance and survivability of operational systems in a variety of scenarios. You will lead and advise fellow researchers, scientists, and engineers on multi-disciplinary teams spread across multiple STR campuses to understand customer objectives, craft strategic plans, lead proposal efforts, and develop innovative solutions to complex and challenging national security problems. Your areas of specific focus will include innovating and developing advanced modeling & simulation and systems engineering capabilities

A successful candidate will have significant expertise and skill in several of the following areas: systems engineering, radar systems, modeling & simulation, test & evaluation, hardware design, software architecture, resource management, signal processing, and/or communications. This position requires skills in leading multi-disciplinary teams, managing complex system design, development, and test programs, developing technology roadmaps and marketing strategies, as well as deep technical proficiency in relevant technologies. Strong interpersonal, communication, technical, management, mentorship, and peer-leadership skills are also required.

What you will do:

• Develop system concepts, algorithms, and RF solutions to operational challenges
• Design, direct, and when necessary, implement cutting-edge technology in hardware and software prototypes
• Lead small, multi-disciplinary teams to architect, develop, implement, and test novel sensing and signal processing systems built on open architecture principles
• Technical leadership and oversite of system design, implementation, and testing
• Direct Modeling and Simulation of advanced RF systems, new sensing paradigms, and multi-function RF concepts
• Clearly communicate with customers, stakeholders, sponsors, prime- and sub-contractors

Who you are:

• PhD in Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or related field
• 10-15 years of practical experience in modeling & simulation, sensing modalities (e.g., RF and EO/IR), and systems engineering, including digital engineering
• Experience applying algorithm development and/or modeling to one or more of the following areas: radar design, signal detection, optimization, waveform design, resource management, or systems analysis
• Perform experiment design, performance modeling and simulation runs, and associated test verification and performance analysis using standard analysis tools
• Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, as well as other higher-level languages
• Demonstrated technical leadership and management skills
• Strong mathematical, troubleshooting, writing, and verbal communication skills

This position requires an active Secret or Top Secret (TS) security clearance, for which U.S. citizenship is needed by U.S. Government.

Even Better:

• Experience with advanced RF system concepts, multi-dimensional signal processing, space-based sensing systems, and multi-function phased array apertures
• Experience using source code management and agile software tools (Git, Jira)
• Experience leading software and/or hardware system design, risk, and requirements management
• Experience & competency with software development tools and processes including continuous build, unit testing frameworks, static and dynamic code analysis
• Understanding and experience in interacting with decision-makers and customers to translate mission needs into an end-to-end analytical solution

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 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 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.