Senior SAR-Based MTI 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) find-fix-target-track applications, 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 Engineers with MTI (target detection and tracking) expertise 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

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Assess and / or develop innovative sensor solutions (tasking, collection, processing) to improve target search-and-track capabilities and support program planning, acquisition, and operations.

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Characterize high-priority target Find-Fix-Track-Target (F2T2) performance using both simulated and operational datasets to support program risk reduction and maturation.

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Architect and model both ground truth scenarios and sensing payload output-data products (e.g., MTI detections) to support evaluation and solicitation of future space systems and downstream applications.

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Modernize existing Aerospace MTI processing code base and develop new capabilities to support future needs.

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Serve as the integration leader and principal technical representative to customers for a portfolio of high-impact projects.

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Engage with other experts across multiple disciplines to explore innovative enterprise solutions to critical national missions.

What You Need to be Successful – Senior Engineering Specialist

Minimum Requirements:

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Advanced degree from an accredited program in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Geophysics or related technical discipline and 10 or more years of relevant experience

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Strong grasp of advanced mathematics including Fourier transforms, differential equations, and estimation theory

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Adept at using MATLAB or Python to create or augment engineering code.

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Experience with SAR MTI applications.

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Familiarity with modeling and simulation of SAR MTI tracker performance.

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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:

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Current and active Top Secret/SCI security clearance

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PhD from an accredited program in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Geophysics, Imaging Sciences or related technical discipline

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Significant experience conducting modeling and simulation of SAR-based MTI performance and/or evaluating MTI trackers (Kalman filter based).

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Familiarity with standardized MTI detection and tracking schema and formats (e.g., STANAG 4607, STANAG 4676, OMS/UCI, UMRS, AMRs)

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Cognizance with advanced target tracking algorithms, applications, and performance characterization (e.g., IMM, MHT, EKF, UKF, feature-aided tracking approaches)

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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:

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Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

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Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

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Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

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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

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Flexible spending accounts

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Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

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Relocation assistance

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Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

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Education assistance programs

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An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.