The ideal candidate is a hands-on SDR engineer who is equally comfortable at a spectrum analyzer, in a GNU Radio flowgraph, and in a Python data pipeline. They must be able to design experiments that produce statistically meaningful, well-labeled datasets across many channel conditions, automate those experiments so they run unattended across a rack of radios, and deliver the resulting data and software on a regular cadence to teammates and to an independent evaluation team. This position is based at the Red Bank, New Jersey laboratory.
Key Responsibilities
Design, build, and operate the laboratory RF data collection testbed: multi-node SDR configurations (Ettus USRP or similar), timing and data networking, calibration procedures, and automated collection scripts that capture I/Q data with complete metadata (SigMF or equivalent) across controlled channel conditions
Plan and execute over-the-air and cabled data collection campaigns at scale, including experiment design, RF test and measurement, spectrum monitoring, interference and co-channel scenario generation, and quality control of captured data
Develop synthetic data generation and channel emulation pipelines (Python, GNU Radio, and RF propagation and channel models) that extend laboratory collections with simulated conditions, and maintain consistency between simulated and measured data
Implement and maintain the SDR waveform framework: GNU Radio out-of-tree modules, Python and C++ blocks, flowgraph generation from generated signal processing chains, and the runtime that deploys waveforms to radios through the program radio control API
Support the Lead System Integrator in packaging the waveform framework and data pipelines into containerized deliverables that build and run on T&E hardware, including hardware passthrough for SDRs, and in reproducing evaluation scenarios locally for self-test leaderboard runs
Characterize generated waveforms against objectives (bandwidth, BER, throughput, spectral and temporal masks) using laboratory measurements; document collection procedures, dataset contents, and framework design for program deliverables
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field
5+ years of hands-on software-defined radio experience, including at least 3 years building and operating SDR systems with GNU Radio (3.8+) and Ettus USRP hardware (UHD), or equivalent COTS SDR platforms
Strong proficiency in Python and C++ for signal processing and SDR software development, including GNU Radio out-of-tree (OOT) module development and flowgraph automation
Demonstrated experience designing and running RF data collection campaigns: RF test and measurement equipment (spectrum and signal analyzers, signal generators), calibration, over-the-air testing, and management of large I/Q datasets with metadata
Solid understanding of digital communications and DSP fundamentals: modulation and coding, synchronization, filtering, channel models, link budgets, and measurement of BER, throughput, and occupied bandwidth
Experience automating laboratory experiments and data pipelines in Linux environments, including scripting, scheduling, and storage management for multi-terabyte collections
Experience with RF simulation and channel emulation (GNU Radio channel models, MATLAB or Python propagation models, or hardware channel emulators)
Ability to produce clear technical documentation including test plans, collection procedures, dataset descriptions, and software design documents
Ability to work on-site at the Red Bank, New Jersey laboratory
US Citizenship
Desired Qualifications
Prior experience on IARPA, DARPA, or similar government research programs involving SDR testbeds, independent T&E, and delivery of data and containerized software to an evaluation team
Experience with Docker containerization of SDR software, including USB and network hardware passthrough, and with CI/CD pipelines for automated build and test
Experience with multi-node, synchronized SDR deployments (timing distribution, GPSDO or reference clocks, MIMO or distributed collection)
Familiarity with Machine Learning dataset practices (dataset splits, augmentation, label schemas) and with supporting ML researchers who consume RF data
MS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field
Willingness and ability to obtain Secret security clearance
Target Salary Range $135,000 - $216,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual’s experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.
Benefits Statement
Peraton offers eligible employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, health savings account, short/long term disability, EAP, parental leave, 401(k), paid time off (PTO) for vacation, and company paid holidays. A full listing of available benefits can be viewed at https://www.careers.peraton.com/benefits.
Application Statements The application period for the job is estimated to be 30 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in the role and the Company. During the review of your application, you may be required to participate in an on-camera interview, as well as participate in a process to verify your identity. Use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools of any kind during Peraton interviews is strictly prohibited unless the candidate has obtained prior written authorization. All interview responses must be the candidate’s own.
- EEO
- EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.
