Radar Optimization Engineer

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in United States.

📋 Description

• Act as the representative for the RSR Program Office at radar sites while implementing a robust multi-site schedule.

• Function as a subject matter expert in RSR for project, optimization, and engineering leaders.

• Assist with the integration, configuration, testing, calibration, troubleshooting, and optimization of radar and related electronic systems.

• Set up radar tracking parameters, target-classification software, network interfaces, and integration middleware.

• Conduct advanced field troubleshooting and root-cause analysis for signal interference, hardware issues, communication failures, and data packet loss.

• Provide support for antenna alignment and verify mechanical tilt and azimuth.

• Assess equipment mounting, environmental enclosures, and thermal management factors impacting radar performance.

• Utilize spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, power meters, and radar diagnostic software to adjust gain, filter clutter, set detection thresholds, and confirm performance.

• Evaluate Ethernet, serial, CAN, fiber-optic, power distribution, grounding, bonding, and surge-protection interfaces.

• Analyze radar performance data and modify systems to meet detection, tracking, accuracy, and reliability benchmarks.

• Record test outcomes, system configurations, deficiencies, corrective measures, and final optimization settings.

• Collaborate with FAA personnel, system engineers, vendors, and technical stakeholders.

• Ensure compliance of field activities with FAA regulations and site-specific safety protocols.

• Travel is required 50% to 75% of the time.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree with 4–8 years of relevant experience, or additional relevant experience that may be considered in lieu of a degree.

• A degree, formal certification, or equivalent technical training in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Technology, Military Radar Systems, or a closely related field.

• Experience in research, design, development, integration, maintenance, testing, calibration, or optimization of electrical and electronic equipment and systems.

• Completion of formal radar training at the FAA Academy, a military technical school, or another recognized radar training program.

• Previous radar certification authority at one or more airports or operational radar facilities.

• Several years of practical field experience with one or more radar systems in the active National Airspace System (NAS) or similar operational settings.

• Extensive knowledge of RF propagation, microwave transceivers, signal processing, antenna alignment, and waveguide systems.

• Proven understanding of Ethernet, serial, CAN, fiber-optic communications, network protocols, power distribution, grounding and bonding, and surge protection.

• Proficient in using spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, power meters, and specialized radar diagnostic software.

• Capability to conduct radar testing, calibration, and optimization tasks.

• Familiarity with mechanical tilt and azimuth alignment, environmental enclosures, equipment mounting, and thermal management requirements.

• Competence in configuring radar tracking parameters, target-classification software, network interfaces, and integration middleware.

• Advanced troubleshooting and root-cause analysis abilities.

• Skills in analyzing radar performance data, documenting test results, and recommending or executing corrective actions.

• Thorough understanding of FAA operational risk management practices.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a small team while adhering to a demanding schedule.

• Commitment to high-quality radar maintenance, testing, calibration, and optimization standards.

• Professional demeanor when representing Leidos to FAA clients.

• Demonstrated knowledge of relevant FAA technical, safety, and radar system requirements.

• Capability to obtain and maintain an FAA Public Trust clearance.

• Preferred: previous experience as an FAA radar specialist, engineer, or technician with multi-year operational NAS responsibilities.

• Preferred: familiarity with FAA surveillance radar systems and related communications.

• Preferred: experience in radar modernization, integration, commissioning, operational testing, acceptance, calibration, troubleshooting, or optimization.

• Preferred: experience in analyzing radar plots, system performance data, target reports, coverage, clutter, interference, and tracking anomalies.

• Preferred: understanding of FAA safety, grounding and bonding, radar performance, and site-specific work requirements.

🏝️ Benefits

• Opportunity to work with cutting-edge radar technology in a dynamic environment.

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.

• Professional development and training opportunities.

• Collaborative work culture with a focus on innovation and excellence.