Senior/Principle R&D Computer Scientist - Radar ISR Real Time Processing, Onsite

Sandia National Laboratories is the nation’s premier science and engineering lab for national security and technology innovation, with teams of specialists focused on cutting-edge work in a broad array of areas.

About the role

We are looking for an exceptional Computer Science Engineer to join our team. You will apply integrated technical judgment, using the scientific method to recognize and formulate problems, collect data through observation and experimentation, and test hypotheses to deliver solutions for Sandia’s national security missions. You will participate in developing and applying computational capabilities to tackle problems in science and engineering, merging disciplines with computer science.

Duties include research, development, deployment, and technical support of scientific and engineering application software and related tools. On any given day, you may:

• Plan, conduct, or lead research and development for Sandia's customers and sponsors.
• Direct systematic studies to advance knowledge of phenomena and discover new approaches.
• Create new capabilities using the Scientific Method’s hypothesis, test, and evaluation techniques.
• Initiate, design, develop, execute, and evaluate new processes, products, or systems through research.

Due to the nature of the work, the selected applicant will be required to work onsite.

Responsibilities

• Develop and support general scientific and engineering application software and tools.
• Apply computational methods to solve problems in science and engineering.
• Engage in software development lifecycle activities (specification, development, integration, and test).
• Work with object-oriented design using languages such as C++, Java, or Python.
• Utilize multi-paradigm languages, including Rust and MatLab.
• Apply object-oriented design and Unified Modeling Language (UML).
• Develop software for real-time Linux or real-time operating systems such as VxWorks.
• Collaborate in a team-based software development environment using shared code and peer review.
• Implement formal software testing and verification strategies.
• Perform networked communications programming.
• Work with teams of engineers from diverse backgrounds and skillsets.
• Use scripting languages such as bash and Python.
• Apply knowledge of digital signal processing techniques and radar fundamentals or other sensor technologies.
• Leverage AI-assisted development tools or agentic programming.
• Apply AI/ML technologies where applicable.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline and five (5) years of directly relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience demonstrating the required knowledge, skills, and ability for independent research and development.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q-level security clearance and an SCI-level security clearance, which may require a polygraph.

Qualifications

• Graduate degree in Computer Science or a related field with an independent research project (e.g., thesis or dissertation).
• Demonstrated software development skills and familiarity with modern practices and tools (e.g., Agile).
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, ability to work in multidisciplinary teams, and a passion for improving technical skills.
• Experience with VxWorks system installation, administration, kernel customization, configuration, and troubleshooting.
• Experience with Data Distribution Services (DDS), such as RTI Connext DDS or OpenDDS.
• Active DOE Q/DoW Top Secret clearance and an SCI clearance, or the ability to obtain them.

Benefits

• Challenging work with impact on national security and global peace.
• Extraordinary co-workers and access to cutting-edge tools and research facilities.
• Career advancement and enrichment opportunities.
• Flexible work arrangements, including 9/80 (every other Friday off) and 4/10 (four ten-hour days per week) compressed workweeks, part-time work, and telecommuting.
• Generous vacation, strong medical benefits, competitive 401k, learning opportunities, and relocation assistance.
• Amenities aimed at creating a solid work/life balance.

Benefits vary by job classification.

Pay

Salary range: $117,500 - $235,700. Actual salary will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and approved geographic salary differential.

About Our Team

Department 5348, ISR Real-Time Processing, develops and delivers advanced digital hardware and software solutions for embedded processing in advanced radar (SAR/GMTI) and other RF system development activities. Capabilities include:

• Object-oriented analysis and design.
• Operating system development, configuration, and setup.
• Quality attribute-driven and model-driven development.
• Component-based development supporting a software product line.
• Automated testing and low-level driver software for COTS and custom hardware.
• Real-time embedded software and concurrent software for multi-core processors and GPUs.
• GUI software development.
• Advanced digital signal processing (analysis, simulation, and implementation).
• High-speed ASIC and FPGA design.
• Use of common digital interface architectures with embedded processors.
• High-speed PCB design (digital and mixed-signal).
• VHDL design, simulation, implementation, and test.