Embedded DSP Engineer (Research Engineer)
Whoi· International Affairs· Oct 19, 2026 · 9d ago
Onsite – Woods Hole, MA
In office
Full-time
Mid
$114K–$148K
Job description
Job Summary
Job Description
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is seeking an Embedded DSP Engineer. This is a regular, exempt, full-time position and its eligible for full benefits. The Applied Ocean Physics and Engineering Department is recruiting qualified candidates for a position in digital signal processing in support of applied research and development of acoustic communications and related areas of underwater acoustics. The work will primarily involve development, implementation and maintenance of software and firmware for underwater acoustic modems and navigation systems. The communications and navigation system is implemented on real-time embedded DSPs and microcontrollers. In addition, the position may include general underwater acoustic signal analysis and array processing using Matlab tools, and prototyping of candidate algorithms to estimate performance and compare complexity. The position will also involve going to sea to support data collection and experimentation, and extensive post-processing and analysis.
Please ensure that you submit a cover letter along with your resume, highlighting your relevant experience, qualifications, and interest in the position.
The internal working title for this position will be Research Engineer. The final level of the position will be determined commensurate with the selected candidate s level of education & experience.
Research Engineer : With little supervision, works creatively and independently to establish objectives, meet deadlines, and complete difficult engineering assignments by demonstrating full competency in one or more engineering areas; assists substantively in planning technical aspects of experiments, as well as design, testing, and use of major system components.
Essential Functions
The required skills of the position include:
Excellent working knowledge of C, Matlab and other programming languages such as Python.
Experience with programming and debugging embedded signal processing or control systems.
Previous experience with electrical schematics and using test equipment for software and hardware debugging.
Experience working in a team software development environment, including testing and version control.
Required Experience & Education Research Engineer :
Ph.D. in related engineering field, or Master s degree in an engineering or appropriate field with several years of related experience, or Bachelor s degree in an engineering or appropriate field with more than five years of related experience.
Special Requirements:
Sea duty
Must be a US Citizen
TWIC
Additional Job Requirements
Salary Range: $113,650 - $148,216
The salary range provided for this position reflects the expected minimum and maximum base pay for new hires. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as relevant skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as internal equity and market conditions. In addition to base salary, eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package.
SEA DUTY:
May work at least 8 hours per day and, at times in excess of 12 hours per day, 7 days per week. Sleep and work hours can deviate from those on land. May be expected to work on watch schedule (such as 8 hours on and 8 hours off or 12 hours on and 8 hours off) for all or part of a cruise or to work as hours are needed to accomplish the planned work. May need to travel during holidays and for long distances to and from foreign ports. May experience rudimentary living and working conditions, with shared and basic living quarters and laboratories. May experience bad or extreme weather conditions, including heavy seas, winter weather or hot, tropical weather. Work on deck may occur in both hot and cold conditions around the clock. Sea conditions will lead to active ship motion. Should be able to climb steep and vertical ladders and able to enter and exit compartments through hatches, doors, and sills. Should be able to carry heavy gear and participate in the loading and unloading of the ship as well as in the activities on deck and in the labs during the cruise. Shipboard environment may include: confined areas, shared sleeping quarters (berths) and bathroom facilities, small and basic berthing, fixed mealtimes and basic menus. Modest levels of heating, cooling, ventilation, and illumination limited or no email and internet access and limited off-duty and recreational facilities (library, lounge, movies). May be exposed to potential allergens and irritants, including paint fumes. May experience constant and intermittent loud noises, and slippery and uneven surfaces.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Physical duties for this position include but are not limited to, ability to lift less than 25 lbs independently, 2 times per day; carry 10-25 lbs, 2 times per day. Visual abilities to include near, far, peripheral, depth perception, and ability to distinguish basic colors. Hearing requirements include the ability to hear and respond to instructions, communicate effectively in loud areas (pier/dock, warehouse). Other physical tasks include occasional prolonged standing/walking; use of hands for basic /fine grasping and manipulation, repetitive motion, reaching above and below the shoulders, pushing, pulling, kneeling, bending, twisting, and stooping. Other occupational requirements include talking, traveling, working around others, and with others. Will be exposed to dust or other irritants and electrical/mechanical/power equipment hazards. Physical duties are subject to change.
WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.
EEO Statement
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
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