Principal Scientist - Optics Signal Processing

STR • Woburn, MA

1d

About The Position

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 seeking a Principal Scientist to lead the development of next-generation signal processing capabilities for airborne passive optical sensing systems supporting critical national security missions. In this role, you will guide teams of scientists and engineers in designing advanced algorithms and processing architectures that enable the detection, characterization, and exploitation of targets operating in low signal-to-noise and highly cluttered environments. You will apply first-principles physics, statistical signal processing, and advanced modeling and simulation to understand complex operational environments and drive the development of end-to-end processing solutions—from raw sensor phenomenology and calibration through detection, tracking, and classification. This role requires the ability to integrate knowledge across optics, sensing phenomenology, atmospheric effects, signal processing, and machine learning to develop robust solutions that transition from research prototypes into operational systems. As a senior technical leader, you will help shape the technical vision and strategy for passive optical sensing within the organization, identifying emerging mission challenges, defining research directions, and guiding the development of technologies that address future operational needs.

Requirements

• 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
• 10-12+ 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

Nice To Haves

• 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

Responsibilities

• Lead multidisciplinary teams in the design, development, and maturation of advanced signal processing algorithms for airborne passive optical sensing systems
• Apply physics-based modeling and simulation to understand sensing phenomenology, clutter environments, and environmental effects impacting sensor performance
• Architect and develop end-to-end processing chains, including sensor modeling, calibration, detection, tracking, and target classification algorithms
• Identify and pursue novel algorithmic approaches for detecting and exploiting low-SNR signals in complex environments
• Collaborate closely with program leadership, government sponsors, and external partners to shape technical direction and align research with mission needs
• Mentor and guide scientists and engineers, helping develop the next generation of technical leaders within the organization
• Drive the transition of research algorithms into operational software and deployed capabilities
• Communicate technical vision and results through briefings, technical publications, and presentations to senior stakeholders and subject matter experts

Benefits

• STR is committed to creating a collaborative learning environment that supports deep technical understanding and recognizes the contributions and achievements of all team members.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Associate degree