Research Scientist

Amentum•Washington, DC

1d•$95,000 - $115,000

About The Position

We are seeking a highly adaptable and self-directed Signal Processing Scientist to join our dynamic research and development team. This role is designed for a creative, practical problem-solver who thrives on breadth and variety, rather than being confined to a single narrow project. In this role, you will bridge the gap between advanced academic research and real-world operational impact. You will leverage your creative instincts and deep technical expertise to translate complex mathematical models—specifically in spectral estimation and array processing—into efficient, testable code applied to CUI and classified datasets. We offer a highly collaborative environment that values innovative approaches, rapid prototyping, and autonomy to critically evaluate and dictate technical solutions.

Requirements

Demonstrated research or applied experience in spectral estimation, beamforming, or array processing (e.g., hydrophone arrays, vertical/horizontal arrays).
Scientific Programming: Strong proficiency in Matlab or Python for prototyping algorithms, analyzing data, and visualizing results.
High-Performance Computing: An understanding of performant numerical code, with a demonstrated willingness and aptitude to learn compiled languages (such as C/C++, RUST, or FORTRAN 95) as required.
Algorithms & Data Structures: Grasp of fundamental data structures and algorithms applied to numerical computation and signal processing (e.g., FFT implementations).
Software Architecture: Command of Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) principles and functional programming paradigms for creating modular code.
Development Tools: Familiarity with, or a strong willingness to learn, version control systems (Git), modern testing methodologies, and debugging techniques.
Operating Systems: Willingness and aptitude to work within and learn Linux development environments (command line, Bash, CMake).
Applied Mathematics: Deep understanding of Fourier analysis, linear algebra, calculus, probability, and statistics applied to signal processing.
Code Translation: Ability to translate complex algorithms from mathematical descriptions into efficient, testable code.
Technical Writing: Strong scientific writing skills, with the ability to document algorithms clearly and author technical reports and peer-reviewed reports suitable for controlled DoD distribution.
Quality Assurance: Proficiency in identifying software defects and executing tests to ensure code reliability.
Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively, including a readiness to learn version control workflows (e.g., Git branching and merging) for distributed team development.
Performance Optimization: Ability to implement algorithms while carefully managing numerical stability, computational complexity, and memory usage.
Analytical Troubleshooting: Strong analytical skills to tackle complex technical challenges creatively.
Adaptability: Proven ability to quickly learn and understand new signal processing concepts and programming technologies (e.g., rapidly acquiring proficiency in Git, Linux, or C++ on the job).
Precision: Highly detail-oriented, ensuring accuracy in code, data analysis, and technical reporting.
Autonomy: Self-directed, able to take initiative, and work independently with minimal supervision.
Critical Thinking: Ability to critically evaluate different approaches, make informed decisions, and apply creative thinking to roadblocks.
Code Quality: Committed to writing clean, readable, and maintainable code.
Will need one to start once security stuff is in the DOW database and the SF86 has been verified.

Nice To Haves

Candidates who possess a blend of rigorous academic research with practical, hands-on experience in adjacent technical fields (such as hardware troubleshooting, acoustics, or commercial technical operations) are highly encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

Algorithm Development & Prototyping: Utilize scientific programming languages (such as Matlab or Python) to rapidly prototype algorithms, analyze real-world acoustic or sensor data, and visualize results to validate theoretical approaches.
Research Translation: Translate complex algorithms and mathematical models (e.g., spectral estimation, beamforming) from research papers into efficient, well-documented code.
Performance Optimization: Optimize computational complexity and memory usage. As mission needs dictate, transition prototyped algorithms into high-performance compiled languages (e.g., C/C++, RUST, or FORTRAN 95); on-the-job familiarization and training will be supported for the right candidate.
Systems Analysis: Analyze the performance, numerical stability, and limitations of signal processing algorithms when applied to diverse and complex mission datasets.
Software Engineering & Collaboration: Adopt software development best practices within a team environment. This includes a willingness to learn and utilize modern version control workflows (e.g., Git), testing methodologies, and debugging techniques.
Technical Reporting & Documentation: Author detailed technical reports for numerical algorithms, software systems, and data analysis results. Prepare and submit findings for internal peer review and publication in restricted-distribution channels (e.g., DoD Distribution Statement D or higher), communicating complex results to operational and scientific stakeholders.
Safety - Amentum enforces a safety culture whereby all employees have the responsibility for continuously developing and maintaining a safe work environment. As appropriate, each employee is responsible for completing all training requirements and fulfilling all self-aid/buddy aid responsibilities, participating in emergency response tasks and serving on safety committees and teams.
Quality - Quality is the foundation for the management of our business and the keystone to our goal of customer satisfaction. It is our policy to consistently provide services that meet customer expectations. Accordingly, each employee must conform to the Amentum Quality Policy and carry out job activities in compliance with applicable Amentum Quality System documents and customer contracts. Each employee must read and understand his/her Quality Management and Customer Satisfaction responsibilities.
Procedure Compliance - Each employee must read, understand and implement the general and specific operational, safety, quality and environmental requirements of all plans, procedures and policies pertaining to his/her job.