Principal Radar Engineer- MTI

Kapta Space, a VC-funded early-stage startup in Seattle, WA, is breaking new ground in Geospatial Intelligence. Our technology centers around a proven, scalable electronically-steered radar for sophisticated spaceborne applications such as earth observation using synthetic aperture radar (SAR) techniques, as well as enabling advanced defense missions such as target tracking on the ground and in the air.

About the role

We are seeking a hands-on radar Subject Matter Expert (SME) who can translate mission needs into high-performance radar modes and algorithms. The Principal Radar Engineer will lead radar systems engineering and algorithm development for spaceborne Moving Target Indication (MTI), including target detection, tracking, and performance modeling.

Responsibilities

• Define requirements and architectures for spaceborne MTI detection, tracking, and performance
• Develop MTI algorithms for Doppler processing, clutter suppression, detection, association, and tracking
• Model radar and tracker performance in MATLAB/Python across representative orbital geometries and target scenarios
• Lead waveform, processing, detection-threshold, and tracker trade studies to optimize mission performance
• Analyze simulated and measured data; define metrics, test cases, and verification methods
• Partner with RF/antenna, FPGA, software, and systems teams to implement and validate algorithms on hardware
• Serve as MTI radar SME, mentor engineers, support customer reviews, and help grow the radar team

Requirements

• BS or MS in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Engineering, or related field
• 8+ years in radar systems/signal processing, including MTI detection and target tracking
• Expertise in waveform design, Doppler processing, detection theory, clutter, tracking, and radar performance
• Experience with SAR-based MTI/GMTI algorithms and tracker modeling/evaluation
• Strong MATLAB/Python skills for modeling, simulation, algorithms, and data analysis
• Strong foundation in estimation theory, probability/statistics, Fourier analysis, and numerical methods
• Ability to turn mission needs into requirements, architectures, trade studies, and verification plans in a lean startup environment
• U.S. Citizenship, Lawful Permanent Residency, or Refugee/Asylee Status

Qualifications (Preferred)

• Advanced degree (MS/PhD) in EE, Physics, Mathematics, Signal Processing, or related field
• Spaceborne radar/SAR experience, including orbital-geometry impacts on MTI performance
• Advanced tracking methods: Kalman/EKF/UKF, IMM, MHT, track-before-detect, or feature-aided tracking
• SAR/MTI clutter suppression using DPCA, STAP, or other multi-channel techniques
• Familiarity with STANAG 4607/4676, OMS/UCI, or related MTI data standards
• Phased arrays, electronic beam steering, digital beamforming, and radar calibration
• Real-time algorithm implementation in C/C++, FPGA, GPU, or embedded processors
• Radar integration, hardware-in-the-loop test, and verification/validation experience
• Experience briefing DoD/IC customers as a principal technical representative
• Current or ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance

Pay

The estimated salary range for this role reflects base pay only and is influenced by a variety of factors. Actual offers may vary based on factors including, but not limited to, a candidate's experience, education or training, specialized expertise, and the needs of the business. In addition to base pay, full-time roles include competitive equity grants that reward innovation, impact, and long-term growth.