Senior Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Engineer

This role leads a team of engineers developing advanced synthetic aperture radar (SAR) systems and imaging technologies for airborne and space-based platforms. The Senior SAR Engineer / SAR Group Leader drives technical excellence in SAR image formation, radar signal processing, and system performance analysis while providing hands-on technical leadership and mentorship to a high-performing engineering team.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of engineers specializing in SAR and radar technologies, providing technical direction, mentorship, and performance feedback.
• Oversee the design, development, and implementation of SAR image formation processors and related algorithms for airborne and space-based platforms.
• Provide deep technical expertise in radar physics and SAR image phenomenology to guide system design and performance optimization.
• Conduct trade studies and detailed analyses on SAR image quality, radar system performance, and associated design trade-offs.
• Support the design and optimization of radar waveforms and signal processing chains to meet mission and performance requirements.
• Guide the analysis and interpretation of radar phenomenology for both airborne and space systems, ensuring accurate and reliable imaging results.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with technical leadership, program management, and other engineering disciplines to drive program success and resolve complex technical challenges.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of processes, best practices, and technical standards for SAR and radar system development.
• Communicate complex technical concepts clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

• Extensive hands-on experience with synthetic aperture radar (SAR), radar systems, and radar signal processing.
• Proficiency in SAR image formation techniques and development of SAR image formation processors and algorithms.
• Strong background in radar physics, SAR image phenomenology, and radar analysis.
• Deep understanding of fundamental RF principles and their application to radar system design and performance.
• Experience in radar signal processing and radar waveform design.
• Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in SAR, radar systems, or signal processing.
• Master’s degree in Imaging Science, Mathematics, Physics, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing engineering teams and leading complex technical efforts.
• Ability to work effectively on cross-functional teams to solve complex problems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain technical information.
• Active U.S. citizenship with an active TS clearance and SCI eligibility.

• Ph.D. preferred in Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or a related discipline.
• TS/SCI clearance or TS with SCI eligibility preferred.
• Understanding of statistical analysis techniques as applied to radar and SAR data.
• Experience developing electronic warfare (EW) algorithms.
• Expertise in geospatial information and RF spectrum operations.
• Active curiosity and a strong desire to continuously grow as a technical expert.
• Proven ability to influence and collaborate with stakeholders across multiple engineering disciplines.

This position is based in an office setting and operates on a Monday through Friday, first-shift schedule. The role involves close collaboration with other engineers and technical leaders in a professional, technology-focused environment that emphasizes rigorous analysis, high-quality engineering practices, and cross-functional teamwork.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Dayton, OH.

The pay range for this position is $150000.00 - $190000.00/yr.

Benefits: CFD Research offers competitive salaries and excellent employee benefits, including an employer matching 401(k) and Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). CFD Research offers our Full-Time, permanent employee-owners a highly competitive insurance package, including medical, vision, and dental insurance. Additionally, we offer company paid leave, compensation time, parental leave, long-term and short-term disability, accidental death and dismemberment, and life insurance. Part-Time and Temporary employee-owners may receive partial or reduced benefits and leave time based on their employment status level. Performance appraisals occur twice a year and annual pay increases are based upon corporate goals, personal development, performance, and outstanding achievements. In addition, group and individual bonuses are awarded for exceptional performance.

This is a fully onsite position in Dayton,OH.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 4, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Salary : $150,000 - $190,000