Riverside Research is seeking a skilled and motivated RF Software Research Engineer to join our Spectrum Warfare Innovation (SWI) group. SWI combines state-of-the-art research with quick reaction prototyping to deliver modernized, tactical radio frequency (RF) and electronic warfare (EW) capability to national security customers.
In this role, you will lead and execute implementation of cutting-edge RF algorithms and software systems, and support prototype integration. As a lead technical contributor, you will be responsible for ensuring transition of early feasibility code to well-architected software products through application of modern software development practices. The ideal candidate will have experience working in dynamic R&D environments, from ideation through execution. The candidate should have a track record of outside-the-box problem-solving, a spirit for interdisciplinary collaboration, and the ability to clearly document and articulate technical designs.
The candidate should have expertise in software development and experience with at least one of the following technical application areas:
- RF signal processing (radar and/or communications)
- RF modeling and simulation
- RF autonomy / cognitive tactical systems
- Sensor algorithm development
- Implementation on low size, weight, and power devices
This position is located at our Fairfax, VA office.
Responsibilities- Design, build, test, deploy, and maintain software systems and applications that support business objectives. Contribute across the full engineering lifecycle—creating and improving products, services, standards, and procedures—while working independently with ownership of daily priorities and potential responsibility for guiding team members
- Design software architecture; write, test, and optimize code; fix bugs; enhance performance; and develop new features based on user and business needs.
- Collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary teams to develop integrated systems
- Document and communicate design decisions, technical challenges, and progress to internal stakeholders.
- Assists in establishing and maintaining standards and best practices for software development
- Other duties as assigned
Required Qualifications
- Must be a US Citizen
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI Security Clearance
- Education and Experience:
- Bachelor's in STEM field with 5+ years of experience, or
- Master's in STEM field with 3+ years of experience, or
- PhD in STEM field.
- Relevant years of experience may be substituted in lieu of a degree
- Expertise in one of the following areas:
- DSP architecture
- Embedded software development
- RF signal processing
- RF modeling and simulation
- Proficient with programming languages, e.g. C/C++ and/or Python
- Proficient with software version control (Git) and Continuous Integration / Continuous Development (CI/CD) principles.
- Proficient with typical digital laboratory equipment (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers)
- Self-driven with strong analytic, inferencing, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving skills
- Strong written and verbal communications skills
- Ability to operate independently with limited supervision and feedback
- Ability to establish a solid working relationship with technical staff and peers in the group and across Riverside Research.
- Must be able to lift nominal weights, work on uneven terrain, stand for long hours, and/or similar for working in the laboratory and/or field.
- Able to travel (<10 %, as need arises)
Desired Qualifications
- Existing/prior security clearance
- Development experience with DoW or IC programs
- Degree in computer engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, physics or similar with focus in RF, algorithms, or software development
- Demonstrated experience designing and implementing embedded algorithm solutions for defense customers
- Experience with AI code assist
- Desire to learn technical skills alongside how the business operates
Skills Required
- U.S. citizenship
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance
- Bachelor's degree in a STEM field with 5 or more years of experience, or master's degree with 3 or more years of experience, or PhD in a STEM field; relevant experience may substitute for degree
- Expertise in DSP architecture, embedded software development, RF signal processing, or RF modeling and simulation
- Proficiency with C/C++ and/or Python
- Proficiency with Git version control and CI/CD principles
- Proficiency with oscilloscopes and logic analyzers
- Strong analytical, critical thinking, problem-solving, written communication, and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work independently with limited supervision
- Ability to establish effective working relationships with technical staff and peers
- Ability to lift nominal weights, work on uneven terrain, and stand for long periods
- Ability to travel less than 10% as needed
- Existing or prior security clearance
- Development experience with Department of War or Intelligence Community programs
- Degree in computer engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, physics, or a similar field focused on RF, algorithms, or software development
- Experience designing and implementing embedded algorithm solutions for defense customers
- Experience with AI code-assist tools
- Desire to learn technical skills and business operations
What We Do
Founded in 1967, Riverside Research is a not-for-profit organization chartered to advance scientific research for the benefit of the US government and in the public interest. Through our open innovation concept, we invest in multi-disciplinary research and development and encourage collaboration to accelerate innovation and advance science. Riverside Research conducts independent research in machine learning, trusted systems, optics and photonics, electromagnetics, plasma physics, radio frequency systems, and biomedical engineering. We move science from the laboratory to the field by building teams of recognized experts who deliver effective, high-value solutions and services to our customers. From public service to national security, we aspire to be a valued partner through our unwavering commitment to innovative and mission-focused solutions.
