Staff Scientist

Location: South San Francisco

Department: RTK - Software

POSITION DESCRIPTION SUMMARY:

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated individual to server in the role of Staff Scientist specializing in RF energy, radar phenomenology, and imaging techniques such as Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR). This role is to provide scientific guidance as a part of an experienced sensor-simulation development team working to create realistic radar simulations that target existing and emerging market applications.

Must be eligible to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead research, development, and validation of physics-based models of RF energy propagation, scattering, and imaging, including Synthetic Aperture Radar, Inverse SAR, Doppler Beam Sharpening, and related coherent imaging techniques.
• Develop computational models and algorithms that simulate radar phenomenology, sensor behavior, and imaging artifacts in realistic training environments.
• Provide scientific direction in:
• RF system modeling and simulation
• Electromagnetic wave propagation, terrain/material interactions, and radar cross-section behavior
• Advanced SAR processing algorithms and image formation
• Modeling of environmental and platform motion effects on radar signals
• Atmospheric, terrain, structure and entity modeling in the infrared spectrum.
• Collaborate closely with software engineers to transition scientific models into real-time or near–real-time simulation software (primarily C/C++ on Windows and Linux).
• Produce technical documentation—including algorithms, models, assumptions, and validation approaches.
• Engage with customers and internal stakeholders to understand requirements, present results, and guide sensor-modeling improvements.

• Assist in strategic research planning, technical risk assessment, and schedule estimation.

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION:

• Significant experience in RF systems, electromagnetics, radar imaging, or closely related fields.
• Demonstrated expertise in radar signal processing and imaging algorithms (e.g., SAR/ISAR, matched filtering, motion compensation, interferometry).
• Strong background in applied physics, electromagnetic theory, and RF phenomenology.
• Proficiency in scientific programming (e.g., C/C++, Python, MATLAB) and experience transitioning models into production environments.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work with export-controlled technology and handle sensitive technical information.

SUPERVISORY REQUIREMENTS:

• None

REQUIRED EDUCATION, ELIGIBILITY AND EXPERIENCE:

• PhD or MS in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a similar technical discipline with a focus on electromagnetics, radar, or signal processing.

This position description is not intended to be a complete listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee holding this position. Duties, responsibilities and activities may be changed, or others may be assigned at any time by the Company with notice to the employee.