Mid-Level Radar Exploitation Engineer

AeroVironment

•

Simi Valley, California

•

PERMANENT

Updated 09/08/2026

Job Description

Job Summary

Summary

AV is seeking a mid-level Radar Exploitation Engineer with experience in radar-based missile analysis to provide advanced technical intelligence support to NASIC at Wright-Patterson AFB. You will lead analytic efforts to characterize foreign missile systems and deliver high-impact intelligence products to senior decision-makers and the broader Intelligence Community.

Position Responsibilities

Lead characterization of foreign missile systems using line-of-sight radar-collected data across multiple missile classes (ballistic, cruise, hypersonic, air-to-air, surface-to-air, surface-to-surface).

Extract, analyze, and interpret radar-derived missile observables (RCS, kinematics, staging events, propulsion phases, guidance behavior, engagement geometry).

Analyze time-series radar data to identify flight phases and system-unique signature features.

Apply advanced signal processing and tracking techniques to derive kinematic and dynamic parameters from radar returns.

Produce clear, concise technical intelligence products (reports, briefings) that meet IC standards and withstand peer review.

Brief findings to NASIC analysts, DoD program offices, and other IC stakeholders.

Help develop and refine analytic methods, models, tools, and tradecraft for radar-based missile exploitation.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Engineering, or closely related field.

Approximately 3-6 years of relevant experience in radar analysis, missile systems analysis, RF signal processing, MASINT, EW, or related technical intelligence work (graduate education may substitute for some experience).

Strong understanding of radar fundamentals (radar equation, SNR, detection/tracking, antennas, beam patterns, line-of-sight propagation, CW/pulsed/pulse-Doppler/FMCW/pulse-compression waveforms).

Experience analyzing missile kinematics, trajectories, and flight phases.

Hands-on experience with MATLAB and/or Python (NumPy/SciPy/Matplotlib) for signal processing, modeling, and data analysis.

Demonstrated ability to produce high-quality technical documentation and brief technical results to varied audiences.

Strong analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.

U.S. Citizenship required.

Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI clearance; Active TS/SCI strongly preferred.

Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies

Master's degree in EE, RF Engineering, Radar Systems, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or related discipline.

Prior experience directly supporting NASIC or other IC/DoD analysis centers focused on missile or air/space threat systems.

Demonstrated expertise in trajectory reconstruction, RCS/signature analysis, and performance/vulnerability assessments for air and missile defense.

Experience with modeling & simulation tools (e.g., STK, radar tracking simulations, missile engagement models).

Familiarity with multi-sensor fusion and IC analytic tools/databases.

Competencies & Work Environment

Strong technical curiosity and initiative; ability to operate with increasing independence.

Ability to work effectively in a multi-disciplinary, classified environment alongside government, military, and contractor personnel.

Work is performed on-site in secure facilities in or around Wright-Patterson AFB; occasional travel (