Principal Electrical Engineer

AeroVironment•Leesburg, VA

6d•$153,500 - $234,250

About The Position

AeroVironment is seeking a Principal Electrical Engineer to lead and support efforts to detect and classify Unmanned Aerial Surveillance (UAS) platforms using their Radio Frequency (RF) links. The role focuses on Software Defined Radio (SDR)-based systems, RF protocols, signal detection, and software development, with AI/ML-based classification experience considered a plus. The engineer will set strategy and the technology roadmap for signal processing and development, influence decisions and strategic planning for signal programs, and identify opportunities to introduce software technologies or develop proof-of-concepts based on industry trends. The role also includes researching and evaluating emerging technology, industry, and market trends to support project development and operational activities. Applicants need a B.S. or higher in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline, and at least five years of professional experience; military experience is considered equivalent. The role requires the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance. It also requires access to ITAR- and/or EAR-controlled information, so applicants must qualify as a U.S. person or be eligible for an export license. Some positions require current U.S. citizenship due to contract requirements; the posting also states ITAR U.S. Citizenship required. The listed salary range is $153,500–$234,250. AeroVironment says offer considerations include location, role and responsibilities, experience, education or training, and skills. The position is regular, and the benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule, and a paid holiday shutdown.

Requirements

B.S. or higher in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
At least 5 years of professional experience; military experience is equivalent to professional experience.
Proficiency in C++ and MATLAB for algorithm development and simulation.
Experience in RF signal detection, demodulation, and characterization.
Strong background in reverse engineering wireless communication protocols.
Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.
Must qualify as a U.S. person under ITAR/EAR requirements or be eligible for an export license; the posting states ITAR U.S. Citizenship required.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with AI/ML-based classification approaches.

Responsibilities

Design and implement DSP algorithms to detect and analyze UAS RF signals.
Reverse engineer RF protocols associated with commercial and custom UAS platforms.
Use Software Defined Radios for signal acquisition and experimentation.
Develop signal-processing workflows in MATLAB and production-ready implementations in C++.
Analyze RF environments to distinguish UAS signals from background noise and benign emitters.
Manage source code and collaborative development using Git.
Collaborate with RF engineers, data scientists, mission analysts, and other interdisciplinary teams.
Contribute to research on novel RF-based UAS detection methods.
Set the strategy and technology roadmap for signal processing and development.
Influence decision-making and strategic planning for signal programs.
Determine new areas for software technology introduction or proof-of-concepts based on industry trends.
Research and evaluate emerging technology, industry, and market trends to assist in project development and operational support activities.