Lead Communications Systems Engineer - Tactical Data Links

CHAOS Industries is redefining modern defense with omniscient systems purpose-built for today’s realities. Designed and built by top U.S. military veterans and Silicon Valley innovators, CHAOS Industries’ products are powered by Coherent Distributed Networks (CDN™), empowering warfighters, commercial air operators, and border protection teams to act faster, adapt rapidly, and stay ahead of evolving threats. In a world where technological threats move at unprecedented speed, CHAOS Industries delivers advanced sensing and detection solutions that give the ultimate advantage: time.

About the role

Lead a team responsible for the design and development of cutting-edge communications and data link systems to interconnect and support Coherent Distributed Networks (CDN). Support key capabilities for existing CHAOS sensor products and develop new communications product families with leading-edge capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop advanced directive data links to connect nodes in a CDN
• Implement approaches to reduce the RF signature created by the data links
• Working with a group of timing experts, lead an effort to incorporate highly accurate time-transfer algorithms into the network
• Lead the development of new communications capabilities with minimal guidance
• Procure or develop low-cost, robust hardware to achieve data links in tactical environments between mobile nodes
• Explore and implement approaches to position nodes accurately without reliance on GPS
• Implement algorithms to achieve advanced directional beamforming
• Optimize algorithms for real-time performance and resource constraints
• Implement algorithms in software (e.g., C++, Python, MATLAB) and/or hardware (e.g., FPGAs, DSPs)
• Analyze radar data to evaluate system performance and identify areas for improvement
• Develop and maintain system simulations and models to support algorithm development and performance evaluation
• Working with radar experts, implement algorithms to relieve network data transfer requirements as a means of reducing demands on the network
• Contribute to the development of system requirements and specifications
• Modeling and Simulation of radar systems and sub-systems as well as the signal processing chain
• Plan and lead field tests and data collection activities
• Document and present technical findings and progress to leadership
• Mentor and guide junior engineers
• Work full-time onsite at our office in El Segundo, CA or San Diego, CA

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) or another related field or equivalent work experience
• 10+ years of experience with directional communications systems
• Strong familiarity with programming languages like Python or MATLAB
• Systems Engineering experience with RF (Radio Frequency) systems
• Expertise in digital signal processing (e.g., modulation, filtering, and detection)
• Expertise in algorithm development
• Expertise in data analysis
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
• Experience leading a multidisciplinary team
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team

Preferred Qualifications

• Graduate degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) or another related field or equivalent work experience
• Strong foundation in both sides of the Systems Engineering V
• Experience with C++ and/or other computer languages
• Deep understanding of radar systems and modes
• Strong understanding of radar principles, signal processing techniques, and algorithms
• Expertise with radar waveform design, matched filtering, doppler processing, and clutter rejection techniques

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits 100% paid for by the company
• 401k with 50% company match up to 6% of pay
• FSA and HSA options
• Life insurance
• Free daily lunch
• ‘No meeting Fridays’
• Unlimited PTO
• Casual dress code
• Relocation assistance

Pay

The salary range for this role is $110,000 - $240,000. The stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base compensation range and excludes additional earnings such as bonus, equity, and benefits. Actual salary offer may vary based on work experience, education, training, critical skills, and business considerations.