Signal Processor/Software Engineer 4
University of Washington· enterprise· Higher Education· Oct 23, 2026 · 3d ago
Seattle, WA
In office
Full-time
Mid
$100K–$158K
Job description
Job Description
The Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) has an outstanding opportunity for a Signal Processor/Software Engineer 4 to join the Environmental and Information Systems Department.
About this Opportunity
Reporting to the Senior Engineer, the Signal Processor/Software Engineer 4 will be an integral member of the signal processing group within EIS. The incumbent hired will be independently responsible for developing complex specialty software for engineering research programs, with a focus on imaging sonar array beamforming and detection, classification, localization, and tracking of targets in sonar applications. The candidate will be responsible for updating the existing code base as well as independently designing, developing, and coding new applications. They will convert MATLAB algorithms to run on real-time systems. They will participate in design reviews, code reviews, and generate test plans to ensure the quality of code. This position will be responsible for identifying gaps in requirements and clarifying them with the customer.
The top candidate must be able to work both independently and tightly coupled with the team in an agile environment. The candidate should be well-versed in software development and testing tools such as Git for version control, bug tracking tools, performance and system monitoring tools, debugging tools, and strategies. The candidate will also be expected to be disciplined in using the project-defined coding conventions and interface documentation techniques.
This position will work closely with the system architects when creating parts of the applications to make sure they meet the desired goals. The candidate will be responsible for fully testing their own code before checking it into the repository, as well as full system regression testing often to ensure their code is functioning properly.
Key Responsibilities:
Signal Processing/Software Engineering (60% FTE):
- Designs, prototypes, and optimizes algorithms in MATLAB and C/C .
- Develops complex specialty software for engineering research programs, including software for beamforming algorithms as well as detection, classification, localization, and tracking of targets in sonar applications.
- Converts algorithms to run in real time on dedicated hardware, including GPUs.
- Works as an integral member of the software development team to implement new functionality within the existing code base.
- Creates new standalone applications and toolsets as needed.
- Creates user interfaces to control sonar systems and algorithm and hardware parameters.
Reporting and Documenting (20% FTE):
- Reviews and iterates software requirements with the customer and team.
- Reports to the program manager on weekly progress.
- Participates and presents system design information at program design reviews.
- Creates formal interface documentation and documents code as needed.
Testing (20% FTE):
- Performs engineering field work to support testing of developed systems.
- Unit tests new or updated code.
- Regression tests full system capabilities.
Required Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.
Minimum Qualifications:
Applicants who do not meet these qualifications WILL NOT be forwarded to the Hiring Department.
Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Sciences, or a similar engineering field, and at least four years of experience.
Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration
• US Citizenship.
• Applicants must be able to acquire and maintain a security clearance.
Additional Requirements:
• Working knowledge of array signal processing.
• Excellent computer skills, experience in Linux, C/C , MATLAB, and Python.
• Understanding of the software development process.
• Demonstrated success working independently and as part of a team and interacting cooperatively with people to solve problems effectively.
• Previous experience in the application of signal processing techniques to real-time systems.
• Applies independent problem solving requiring the application of existing and emerging scientific or engineering knowledge.
• Develops new research or engineering methods and approaches; contributes toward the development of strategies for problem solution.
• Demonstrated excellent organizational skills, including:
Documentation
Attention to detail
Communication skills
Time management
• Experience with software revision control systems.
• Experience with collaborative bug tracking systems.
A federal security clearance is required to hold this position. The person hired into this position must be a U.S. citizen and successfully obtain and continue to maintain a Department of Defense (DOD) Personnel Security Clearance. The process for obtaining a DOD Security Clearance can be viewed using the following links: Processing Applicants (dcsa.mil) or General Investigations and Clearance Processes (dcsa.mil)
Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.
Desired Qualifications:
• Current possession of an active Department of Defense security clearance.
• Experience with characterization of sonar system performance, including signal and noise analysis, evaluation of beamforming techniques.
• User interface development experience.
• Experience with FPGA SoCs.
• Rust Experience.
• Experience with system and application performance monitoring tools.
• Linux systems operation experience.
• Familiarity with Linux network configuration.
About APL:
The Applied Physics Laboratory is a research unit at the University of Washington. Our research expertise is in ocean physics and engineering, ocean and medical acoustics and imaging, polar science, remote sensing, and signal processing. We conduct research and development that is sponsored by a variety of federal and state agencies and take great pride in our long-standing status as a US Navy-designated University Affiliated Research Center (UARC). Our work takes place not only on the University of Washington campus and medical centers, but in field locations around the world – at sea, in the air, and on polar ice caps. We apply rigorous scientific inquiry and engineering excellence in pursuit of solutions to important problems for the good of our region, nation, and world.
We are focused on building and sustaining a laboratory where all students, staff, and collaborators can realize success. We believe every member of our team enriches our research enterprise by exposing us to a broad range of ways to understand and engage with the world, identify challenges, and discover, design, and deliver solutions. We invite you to explore our laboratory, to find answers to Common Questions about the University’s application process, and to See Yourself at APL .
Compensation, Benefits and Position Details
Pay Range Minimum:
$99,444.00 annual Pay Range Maximum:
$114,000.00 annual Other Compensation:
- Benefits:
For information about benefits for this position, visit washington.edu Shift:
First Shift (United States of America) Temporary or Regular?
This is a regular position FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):
100.00% Union/Bargaining Unit:
UAW Research
About the UW
Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.
UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty.
Our Commitment
The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81 .
To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso uw.edu .
Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law .
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