Senior Synthetic Aperture Radar; SAR Engineer

Senior Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Engineer / SAR Group Leader

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.

• 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.

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

The pay range for this position is $ - $/yr. 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,…