Unusual Ventures
Boston, Massachusetts
Job Description Job Description Overview We're looking for a Senior Principal AI Engineer to provide hands-on technical leadership across complex, production-grade AI systems. This role is for a builder-architect-someone who has repeatedly taken AI systems from idea to production, understands where they fail at scale, and knows how to unblock teams to move faster without sacrificing outcomes. This is not a pure strategy or people-management role. It is a deeply technical builder role with organizational impact. You will define technical direction by writing code, designing systems, and helping the organization stay in builder mode as complexity and scale increase. What You'll Do Architect and build end-to-end AI systems including LLM orchestration, retrieval layers, agentic workflows, and structured reasoning systems Lead the design of multi-agent and tool-calling systems that operate reliably in production Establish and evolve architecture patterns for scalable, cost-aware, and observable AI applications Drive technical decisions across data modeling, AI pipelines, infrastructure, and APIs Define best practices for evaluation, monitoring, and governance of AI systems in production Mentor senior engineers through design reviews, code reviews, and system-level debugging Translate ambiguous business and domain problems into clear technical strategies Stay ahead of emerging AI techniques and integrate what matters-without chasing hype Core Skills & Experience 12+ years of software engineering experience, with deep hands-on experience building AI/ML systems in production Strong proficiency in TypeScript, React, Go, Python and modern AI frameworks Extensive experience with LLMs, including RAG, tool use, prompt systems, and agentic architectures Proven ability to design and ship large-scale AI systems that run reliably in real-world environments Strong architectural judgment across data systems, AI models, infrastructure, and application layers Deep understanding of AI failure modes: hallucination, drift, brittleness, latency, and cost blowups Excellent communication skills-able to explain technical tradeoffs to both technical and non-technical audiences Track record of shipping systems end-to-end, not just prototypes or research work Builder Mentality (This Is Core to the Role) We are explicitly looking for builders. By " builder, " we mean an operating mode, not a title. Builders: Bias toward systems that solve user needs, not perfect abstractions Move comfortably from ambiguity first draft iteration production Optimize for learning velocity and customer impact, not theoretical completeness Are willing to build the entire arc of a system to surface real constraints early Treat quality as something you earn through iteration, not something you gate progress with Understand that the last 10-20% of a system-integration, edge cases, UX, usability, reliability-is where real work happens At the Principal level, being a builder also means: Helping the organization stay in builder mode as it grows Collapsing unnecessary complexity rather than introducing more process Knowing when architectural rigor matters, and when it is premature Pulling promising work across the finish line instead of waiting for "perfect readiness" Modeling speed, ownership, and clarity for other senior engineers Your impact is measured not only by what you build, but by how much faster and more effectively others can build because of you. Preferred Experience (Domain-Flexible Specialties) Knowledge graph architecture, ontology design, or semantic modeling in complex domains Graph databases, graph query languages, or graph ML techniques Hybrid systems combining structured reasoning with LLM-based approaches Entity resolution, schema alignment, or knowledge fusion at scale AI systems requiring explainability, auditability, or lineage tracking Experience building AI systems in regulated or high-stakes domains (finance, healthcare, legal, government) MLOps, evaluation infrastructure, or long-running AI services operating at scale What You'll Love Owning the technical direction of real AI systems that make it into production Solving hard, ambiguous problems where architecture and execution matter equally Leading through hands-on building, not layers of process Working in an environment that values shipping, learning, and iteration over perfection Having the latitude to shape both systems and how teams build them About Us We are an AI-first company, and we mean that literally. AI is not a feature we bolt on. It's not a marketing layer. It's not a roadmap experiment. It is the foundation of how we design, build, and operate. We are building systems where machines do what machines do best: pattern recognition, synthesis, analysis at scale. As well as what humans do what humans do best: judgment, context, trust, and accountability. That means rethinking workflows from the ground up. Not "how do we add AI to this process?" but "how should this process exist in a machine-augmented world?" We care deeply about shipping real systems that work in production. In regulated environments. With real customers. At scale. If you're excited to help invent the next way software is built and deployed, and to do it alongside a team of deeply pragmatic, AI-obsessed builders, we'd love to talk. We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
Job Description Job Description Overview We're looking for a Senior Principal AI Engineer to provide hands-on technical leadership across complex, production-grade AI systems. This role is for a builder-architect-someone who has repeatedly taken AI systems from idea to production, understands where they fail at scale, and knows how to unblock teams to move faster without sacrificing outcomes. This is not a pure strategy or people-management role. It is a deeply technical builder role with organizational impact. You will define technical direction by writing code, designing systems, and helping the organization stay in builder mode as complexity and scale increase. What You'll Do Architect and build end-to-end AI systems including LLM orchestration, retrieval layers, agentic workflows, and structured reasoning systems Lead the design of multi-agent and tool-calling systems that operate reliably in production Establish and evolve architecture patterns for scalable, cost-aware, and observable AI applications Drive technical decisions across data modeling, AI pipelines, infrastructure, and APIs Define best practices for evaluation, monitoring, and governance of AI systems in production Mentor senior engineers through design reviews, code reviews, and system-level debugging Translate ambiguous business and domain problems into clear technical strategies Stay ahead of emerging AI techniques and integrate what matters-without chasing hype Core Skills & Experience 12+ years of software engineering experience, with deep hands-on experience building AI/ML systems in production Strong proficiency in TypeScript, React, Go, Python and modern AI frameworks Extensive experience with LLMs, including RAG, tool use, prompt systems, and agentic architectures Proven ability to design and ship large-scale AI systems that run reliably in real-world environments Strong architectural judgment across data systems, AI models, infrastructure, and application layers Deep understanding of AI failure modes: hallucination, drift, brittleness, latency, and cost blowups Excellent communication skills-able to explain technical tradeoffs to both technical and non-technical audiences Track record of shipping systems end-to-end, not just prototypes or research work Builder Mentality (This Is Core to the Role) We are explicitly looking for builders. By " builder, " we mean an operating mode, not a title. Builders: Bias toward systems that solve user needs, not perfect abstractions Move comfortably from ambiguity first draft iteration production Optimize for learning velocity and customer impact, not theoretical completeness Are willing to build the entire arc of a system to surface real constraints early Treat quality as something you earn through iteration, not something you gate progress with Understand that the last 10-20% of a system-integration, edge cases, UX, usability, reliability-is where real work happens At the Principal level, being a builder also means: Helping the organization stay in builder mode as it grows Collapsing unnecessary complexity rather than introducing more process Knowing when architectural rigor matters, and when it is premature Pulling promising work across the finish line instead of waiting for "perfect readiness" Modeling speed, ownership, and clarity for other senior engineers Your impact is measured not only by what you build, but by how much faster and more effectively others can build because of you. Preferred Experience (Domain-Flexible Specialties) Knowledge graph architecture, ontology design, or semantic modeling in complex domains Graph databases, graph query languages, or graph ML techniques Hybrid systems combining structured reasoning with LLM-based approaches Entity resolution, schema alignment, or knowledge fusion at scale AI systems requiring explainability, auditability, or lineage tracking Experience building AI systems in regulated or high-stakes domains (finance, healthcare, legal, government) MLOps, evaluation infrastructure, or long-running AI services operating at scale What You'll Love Owning the technical direction of real AI systems that make it into production Solving hard, ambiguous problems where architecture and execution matter equally Leading through hands-on building, not layers of process Working in an environment that values shipping, learning, and iteration over perfection Having the latitude to shape both systems and how teams build them About Us We are an AI-first company, and we mean that literally. AI is not a feature we bolt on. It's not a marketing layer. It's not a roadmap experiment. It is the foundation of how we design, build, and operate. We are building systems where machines do what machines do best: pattern recognition, synthesis, analysis at scale. As well as what humans do what humans do best: judgment, context, trust, and accountability. That means rethinking workflows from the ground up. Not "how do we add AI to this process?" but "how should this process exist in a machine-augmented world?" We care deeply about shipping real systems that work in production. In regulated environments. With real customers. At scale. If you're excited to help invent the next way software is built and deployed, and to do it alongside a team of deeply pragmatic, AI-obsessed builders, we'd love to talk. We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
STR
Boston, Massachusetts
Job Description Job Description About the Team: The Sensors Division within STR focuses on the development and analysis of advanced sensor systems in the RF, acoustic, and electro-optical domains. This includes the design and development of novel sensors and advanced information processing techniques from ideation to prototype implementations. The Subsea and Seabed Systems (SSS) Group develops and delivers advanced undersea sensor and signal processing systems, including bespoke undersea vehicles to deploy those systems. We apply those products to to intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) and counter-ISR applications to deliver missions success to our customers. The Role: We are seeking a Principal Investigator (PI) to lead cutting edge research and development in advanced undersea sensing and robotic systems. This role is ideal for a technical leader who can originate innovative concepts, shape them into compelling customer focused proposals, architect and plan complex programs, and drive execution from initial idea through successful at sea demonstration. You will set the technical vision and lead multidisciplinary teams working on next generation Counter Uncrewed Underwater Vehicle (C UUV) technologies, acoustic underwater sensing and signal processing, noise control, undersea robotics, and other advanced undersea systems. You will engage directly with U.S. Government and industry partners, define new capabilities, and deliver operationally relevant solutions. What you will do: Technical Leadership & Vision Define and lead a research agenda in advanced undersea sensing and robotics, with emphasis on C UUV, acoustic sensing, signal processing, and noise control Architect system level solutions for uncrewed undersea vehicles, sensor payloads, and command and control (C2) systems, including sensing, processing, autonomy, and communications Provide technical direction to electrical, mechanical, software, and systems engineers; ensure integration of hardware, software, and algorithms into robust undersea systems An ideal candidate need not have depth in all areas of a system (electrical, mechanical, software, etc.), but needs to understand their system-level interplay and be able to lead a team across disciplines Innovation, Capture, and Customer Engagement Generate new concepts and technology approaches that address emerging undersea mission needs and capability gaps Lead the development of white papers, proposals, and briefings; pitch ideas and technical solutions to U.S. Government and other customers Shape program scope, technical objectives, and execution plans in collaboration with business development and program management Serve as the primary technical interface to customers, communicating trade offs, risks, and progress clearly and credibly Program Execution & Team Leadership Translate concepts into executable technical plans and collaborate with a Program Manager to develop work breakdown structures, schedules, risk management, and resource planning Lead technical teams through design, implementation, integration, and test of undersea systems, from lab prototypes to at sea demonstrations Ensure rigorous system level testing (HIL, lab, pool, and at sea), and drive iterative improvement based on test data and operational feedback Mentor and develop early career engineers and researchers; foster a culture of technical excellence, collaboration, and hands on problem solving Technical Execution (Domain Expertise) Provide technical expertise in an area of undersea research. This may include: Guide the design and integration of advanced acoustic sensing systems, including transducer arrays, front end electronics, and digital signal processing chains Lead research in C UUV detection, tracking, and defeat concepts, including sensing modalities, classification algorithms, and autonomous behaviors Direct efforts in noise control and signature management for undersea platforms and sensors Oversee embedded and real time processing architectures (e.g., FPGAs, GPUs, SBCs) supporting autonomy, signal processing, and C2 Maintain awareness of state of the art undersea technologies and incorporate relevant advances into ongoing and future programs Who you are: Ability to obtain a Top Secret security clearance with special access, for which U.S citizenship is needed by the U.S government Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Ocean Engineering, Acoustics, Robotics, or a closely related field, and substantial experience (typically 8+ years) in undersea systems, sensing, or robotics; or equivalent combination of education and experience Experience as a technical lead on a complex R&D program, preferably in undersea or maritime domains Deep hands on experience in at least one core area: Acoustic underwater sensing and signal processing Counter UUV or undersea defense systems Undersea robotics and autonomy Noise control / signature management for undersea platforms Proven ability to: Develop innovative technical concepts and architectures Write and win competitive proposals or lead major technical captures Plan and manage technical execution for multidisciplinary teams Strong systems engineering mindset, including requirements development, architecture definition, trade studies, and verification/validation Practical familiarity with embedded systems and real time control (e.g., microcontrollers, FPGAs, SBCs) and their role in undersea platforms and sensing systems Experience with modeling, simulation, or analytical tools to set and assess performance expectations for UUVs or sensor systems Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to brief senior stakeholders and customers Even Better: Prior experience as a Principal Investigator or Chief Engineer on undersea robotics, UUV, advanced sensing, or complex R&D programs Experience designing electronics and systems for marine or other harsh environments (pressure, corrosion, moisture, vibration) Familiarity with robotic and autonomy frameworks (e.g., ROS, MOOS IvP, UMAA) and their integration with vehicle electronics and sensing systems Experience with advanced acoustic signal processing including array processing, detection, classification, localization, and tracking Background in control systems, sensor fusion, and their implications for hardware design, timing, and system architecture Experience with hardware in the loop (HIL) test setups, system level simulation, and at sea test campaigns, including deployment, operation, and recovery Experience interacting with the U.S. Navy or other U.S. Government organizations, including classified or special access programs Active Top Secret security clearance and prior special access program experience Experience with agile development methodologies and modern configuration management (e.g., Git) for hardware, firmware, and analysis tools This role is suited for a technical leader who thrives at the intersection of innovation, customer engagement, and hands on engineering, and who wants to shape the next generation of undersea sensing and robotic capabilities. Why Join Us? This is an opportunity to contribute to the development of groundbreaking undersea robotic and sensing systems that will shape the future of maritime autonomy. You will work alongside a passionate and talented team, tackling some of the most challenging and rewarding problems in the field. If you are a visionary roboticist with a drive to innovate and lead, we want to hear from you. Apply today and help us redefine what's possible beneath the waves. Pay Information Full-Time Salary Range: $220,000 - $260,000 The salary range listed is based on external market data. Offers are based on factors, such as but not limited to, the candidate's experience, education, training, key skills/critical skills, security clearances, and prevailing market and business conditions. STR is a growing technology company with locations near Boston, MA, Arlington, VA, near Dayton, OH, Melbourne, FL, Carlsbad, CA, Atlanta, GA, and Denver, CO. We specialize in advanced research and development for defense, intelligence, and national security in: cyber; next generation sensors, radar, sonar, communications, and electronic warfare; and artificial intelligence algorithms and analytics to make sense of the complexity that is exploding around us. STR is committed to creating a collaborative learning environment that supports deep technical understanding and recognizes the contributions and achievements of all team members. Our work is challenging, and we go home at night knowing that we pushed the envelope of technology and made the world safer. STR is not just any company. Our people, culture, and attitude along with their unique set of skills, experiences, and perspectives put us on a trajectory to change the world. We can't do it alone, though - we need fellow trailblazers. If you are one, join our team and help to keep our society safe! Visit us at for more info. STR is an equal opportunity employer. We are fully dedicated to hiring the most qualified candidate regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), marital status . click apply for full job details
Job Description Job Description About the Team: The Sensors Division within STR focuses on the development and analysis of advanced sensor systems in the RF, acoustic, and electro-optical domains. This includes the design and development of novel sensors and advanced information processing techniques from ideation to prototype implementations. The Subsea and Seabed Systems (SSS) Group develops and delivers advanced undersea sensor and signal processing systems, including bespoke undersea vehicles to deploy those systems. We apply those products to to intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) and counter-ISR applications to deliver missions success to our customers. The Role: We are seeking a Principal Investigator (PI) to lead cutting edge research and development in advanced undersea sensing and robotic systems. This role is ideal for a technical leader who can originate innovative concepts, shape them into compelling customer focused proposals, architect and plan complex programs, and drive execution from initial idea through successful at sea demonstration. You will set the technical vision and lead multidisciplinary teams working on next generation Counter Uncrewed Underwater Vehicle (C UUV) technologies, acoustic underwater sensing and signal processing, noise control, undersea robotics, and other advanced undersea systems. You will engage directly with U.S. Government and industry partners, define new capabilities, and deliver operationally relevant solutions. What you will do: Technical Leadership & Vision Define and lead a research agenda in advanced undersea sensing and robotics, with emphasis on C UUV, acoustic sensing, signal processing, and noise control Architect system level solutions for uncrewed undersea vehicles, sensor payloads, and command and control (C2) systems, including sensing, processing, autonomy, and communications Provide technical direction to electrical, mechanical, software, and systems engineers; ensure integration of hardware, software, and algorithms into robust undersea systems An ideal candidate need not have depth in all areas of a system (electrical, mechanical, software, etc.), but needs to understand their system-level interplay and be able to lead a team across disciplines Innovation, Capture, and Customer Engagement Generate new concepts and technology approaches that address emerging undersea mission needs and capability gaps Lead the development of white papers, proposals, and briefings; pitch ideas and technical solutions to U.S. Government and other customers Shape program scope, technical objectives, and execution plans in collaboration with business development and program management Serve as the primary technical interface to customers, communicating trade offs, risks, and progress clearly and credibly Program Execution & Team Leadership Translate concepts into executable technical plans and collaborate with a Program Manager to develop work breakdown structures, schedules, risk management, and resource planning Lead technical teams through design, implementation, integration, and test of undersea systems, from lab prototypes to at sea demonstrations Ensure rigorous system level testing (HIL, lab, pool, and at sea), and drive iterative improvement based on test data and operational feedback Mentor and develop early career engineers and researchers; foster a culture of technical excellence, collaboration, and hands on problem solving Technical Execution (Domain Expertise) Provide technical expertise in an area of undersea research. This may include: Guide the design and integration of advanced acoustic sensing systems, including transducer arrays, front end electronics, and digital signal processing chains Lead research in C UUV detection, tracking, and defeat concepts, including sensing modalities, classification algorithms, and autonomous behaviors Direct efforts in noise control and signature management for undersea platforms and sensors Oversee embedded and real time processing architectures (e.g., FPGAs, GPUs, SBCs) supporting autonomy, signal processing, and C2 Maintain awareness of state of the art undersea technologies and incorporate relevant advances into ongoing and future programs Who you are: Ability to obtain a Top Secret security clearance with special access, for which U.S citizenship is needed by the U.S government Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Ocean Engineering, Acoustics, Robotics, or a closely related field, and substantial experience (typically 8+ years) in undersea systems, sensing, or robotics; or equivalent combination of education and experience Experience as a technical lead on a complex R&D program, preferably in undersea or maritime domains Deep hands on experience in at least one core area: Acoustic underwater sensing and signal processing Counter UUV or undersea defense systems Undersea robotics and autonomy Noise control / signature management for undersea platforms Proven ability to: Develop innovative technical concepts and architectures Write and win competitive proposals or lead major technical captures Plan and manage technical execution for multidisciplinary teams Strong systems engineering mindset, including requirements development, architecture definition, trade studies, and verification/validation Practical familiarity with embedded systems and real time control (e.g., microcontrollers, FPGAs, SBCs) and their role in undersea platforms and sensing systems Experience with modeling, simulation, or analytical tools to set and assess performance expectations for UUVs or sensor systems Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to brief senior stakeholders and customers Even Better: Prior experience as a Principal Investigator or Chief Engineer on undersea robotics, UUV, advanced sensing, or complex R&D programs Experience designing electronics and systems for marine or other harsh environments (pressure, corrosion, moisture, vibration) Familiarity with robotic and autonomy frameworks (e.g., ROS, MOOS IvP, UMAA) and their integration with vehicle electronics and sensing systems Experience with advanced acoustic signal processing including array processing, detection, classification, localization, and tracking Background in control systems, sensor fusion, and their implications for hardware design, timing, and system architecture Experience with hardware in the loop (HIL) test setups, system level simulation, and at sea test campaigns, including deployment, operation, and recovery Experience interacting with the U.S. Navy or other U.S. Government organizations, including classified or special access programs Active Top Secret security clearance and prior special access program experience Experience with agile development methodologies and modern configuration management (e.g., Git) for hardware, firmware, and analysis tools This role is suited for a technical leader who thrives at the intersection of innovation, customer engagement, and hands on engineering, and who wants to shape the next generation of undersea sensing and robotic capabilities. Why Join Us? This is an opportunity to contribute to the development of groundbreaking undersea robotic and sensing systems that will shape the future of maritime autonomy. You will work alongside a passionate and talented team, tackling some of the most challenging and rewarding problems in the field. If you are a visionary roboticist with a drive to innovate and lead, we want to hear from you. Apply today and help us redefine what's possible beneath the waves. Pay Information Full-Time Salary Range: $220,000 - $260,000 The salary range listed is based on external market data. Offers are based on factors, such as but not limited to, the candidate's experience, education, training, key skills/critical skills, security clearances, and prevailing market and business conditions. STR is a growing technology company with locations near Boston, MA, Arlington, VA, near Dayton, OH, Melbourne, FL, Carlsbad, CA, Atlanta, GA, and Denver, CO. We specialize in advanced research and development for defense, intelligence, and national security in: cyber; next generation sensors, radar, sonar, communications, and electronic warfare; and artificial intelligence algorithms and analytics to make sense of the complexity that is exploding around us. STR is committed to creating a collaborative learning environment that supports deep technical understanding and recognizes the contributions and achievements of all team members. Our work is challenging, and we go home at night knowing that we pushed the envelope of technology and made the world safer. STR is not just any company. Our people, culture, and attitude along with their unique set of skills, experiences, and perspectives put us on a trajectory to change the world. We can't do it alone, though - we need fellow trailblazers. If you are one, join our team and help to keep our society safe! Visit us at for more info. STR is an equal opportunity employer. We are fully dedicated to hiring the most qualified candidate regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), marital status . click apply for full job details
STR
Woburn, Massachusetts
Job Description Job Description About the Team: The Sensors Division within STR focuses on the development and analysis of advanced sensor systems in the RF, acoustic, and electro-optical domains. This includes the design and development of novel sensors and advanced information processing techniques from ideation to prototype implementations. The Subsea and Seabed Systems (SSS) Group develops and delivers advanced undersea sensor and signal processing systems, including bespoke undersea vehicles to deploy those systems. We apply those products to to intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) and counter-ISR applications to deliver missions success to our customers. The Role: We are seeking a Principal Investigator (PI) to lead cutting edge research and development in advanced undersea sensing and robotic systems. This role is ideal for a technical leader who can originate innovative concepts, shape them into compelling customer focused proposals, architect and plan complex programs, and drive execution from initial idea through successful at sea demonstration. You will set the technical vision and lead multidisciplinary teams working on next generation Counter Uncrewed Underwater Vehicle (C UUV) technologies, acoustic underwater sensing and signal processing, noise control, undersea robotics, and other advanced undersea systems. You will engage directly with U.S. Government and industry partners, define new capabilities, and deliver operationally relevant solutions. What you will do: Technical Leadership & Vision Define and lead a research agenda in advanced undersea sensing and robotics, with emphasis on C UUV, acoustic sensing, signal processing, and noise control Architect system level solutions for uncrewed undersea vehicles, sensor payloads, and command and control (C2) systems, including sensing, processing, autonomy, and communications Provide technical direction to electrical, mechanical, software, and systems engineers; ensure integration of hardware, software, and algorithms into robust undersea systems An ideal candidate need not have depth in all areas of a system (electrical, mechanical, software, etc.), but needs to understand their system-level interplay and be able to lead a team across disciplines Innovation, Capture, and Customer Engagement Generate new concepts and technology approaches that address emerging undersea mission needs and capability gaps Lead the development of white papers, proposals, and briefings; pitch ideas and technical solutions to U.S. Government and other customers Shape program scope, technical objectives, and execution plans in collaboration with business development and program management Serve as the primary technical interface to customers, communicating trade offs, risks, and progress clearly and credibly Program Execution & Team Leadership Translate concepts into executable technical plans and collaborate with a Program Manager to develop work breakdown structures, schedules, risk management, and resource planning Lead technical teams through design, implementation, integration, and test of undersea systems, from lab prototypes to at sea demonstrations Ensure rigorous system level testing (HIL, lab, pool, and at sea), and drive iterative improvement based on test data and operational feedback Mentor and develop early career engineers and researchers; foster a culture of technical excellence, collaboration, and hands on problem solving Technical Execution (Domain Expertise) Provide technical expertise in an area of undersea research. This may include: Guide the design and integration of advanced acoustic sensing systems, including transducer arrays, front end electronics, and digital signal processing chains Lead research in C UUV detection, tracking, and defeat concepts, including sensing modalities, classification algorithms, and autonomous behaviors Direct efforts in noise control and signature management for undersea platforms and sensors Oversee embedded and real time processing architectures (e.g., FPGAs, GPUs, SBCs) supporting autonomy, signal processing, and C2 Maintain awareness of state of the art undersea technologies and incorporate relevant advances into ongoing and future programs Who you are: Ability to obtain a Top Secret security clearance with special access, for which U.S citizenship is needed by the U.S government Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Ocean Engineering, Acoustics, Robotics, or a closely related field, and substantial experience (typically 8+ years) in undersea systems, sensing, or robotics; or equivalent combination of education and experience Experience as a technical lead on a complex R&D program, preferably in undersea or maritime domains Deep hands on experience in at least one core area: Acoustic underwater sensing and signal processing Counter UUV or undersea defense systems Undersea robotics and autonomy Noise control / signature management for undersea platforms Proven ability to: Develop innovative technical concepts and architectures Write and win competitive proposals or lead major technical captures Plan and manage technical execution for multidisciplinary teams Strong systems engineering mindset, including requirements development, architecture definition, trade studies, and verification/validation Practical familiarity with embedded systems and real time control (e.g., microcontrollers, FPGAs, SBCs) and their role in undersea platforms and sensing systems Experience with modeling, simulation, or analytical tools to set and assess performance expectations for UUVs or sensor systems Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to brief senior stakeholders and customers Even Better: Prior experience as a Principal Investigator or Chief Engineer on undersea robotics, UUV, advanced sensing, or complex R&D programs Experience designing electronics and systems for marine or other harsh environments (pressure, corrosion, moisture, vibration) Familiarity with robotic and autonomy frameworks (e.g., ROS, MOOS IvP, UMAA) and their integration with vehicle electronics and sensing systems Experience with advanced acoustic signal processing including array processing, detection, classification, localization, and tracking Background in control systems, sensor fusion, and their implications for hardware design, timing, and system architecture Experience with hardware in the loop (HIL) test setups, system level simulation, and at sea test campaigns, including deployment, operation, and recovery Experience interacting with the U.S. Navy or other U.S. Government organizations, including classified or special access programs Active Top Secret security clearance and prior special access program experience Experience with agile development methodologies and modern configuration management (e.g., Git) for hardware, firmware, and analysis tools This role is suited for a technical leader who thrives at the intersection of innovation, customer engagement, and hands on engineering, and who wants to shape the next generation of undersea sensing and robotic capabilities. Why Join Us? This is an opportunity to contribute to the development of groundbreaking undersea robotic and sensing systems that will shape the future of maritime autonomy. You will work alongside a passionate and talented team, tackling some of the most challenging and rewarding problems in the field. If you are a visionary roboticist with a drive to innovate and lead, we want to hear from you. Apply today and help us redefine what's possible beneath the waves. Pay Information Full-Time Salary Range: $220,000 - $260,000 The salary range listed is based on external market data. Offers are based on factors, such as but not limited to, the candidate's experience, education, training, key skills/critical skills, security clearances, and prevailing market and business conditions. STR is a growing technology company with locations near Boston, MA, Arlington, VA, near Dayton, OH, Melbourne, FL, Carlsbad, CA, Atlanta, GA, and Denver, CO. We specialize in advanced research and development for defense, intelligence, and national security in: cyber; next generation sensors, radar, sonar, communications, and electronic warfare; and artificial intelligence algorithms and analytics to make sense of the complexity that is exploding around us. STR is committed to creating a collaborative learning environment that supports deep technical understanding and recognizes the contributions and achievements of all team members. Our work is challenging, and we go home at night knowing that we pushed the envelope of technology and made the world safer. STR is not just any company. Our people, culture, and attitude along with their unique set of skills, experiences, and perspectives put us on a trajectory to change the world. We can't do it alone, though - we need fellow trailblazers. If you are one, join our team and help to keep our society safe! Visit us at for more info. STR is an equal opportunity employer. We are fully dedicated to hiring the most qualified candidate regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), marital status . click apply for full job details
Job Description Job Description About the Team: The Sensors Division within STR focuses on the development and analysis of advanced sensor systems in the RF, acoustic, and electro-optical domains. This includes the design and development of novel sensors and advanced information processing techniques from ideation to prototype implementations. The Subsea and Seabed Systems (SSS) Group develops and delivers advanced undersea sensor and signal processing systems, including bespoke undersea vehicles to deploy those systems. We apply those products to to intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) and counter-ISR applications to deliver missions success to our customers. The Role: We are seeking a Principal Investigator (PI) to lead cutting edge research and development in advanced undersea sensing and robotic systems. This role is ideal for a technical leader who can originate innovative concepts, shape them into compelling customer focused proposals, architect and plan complex programs, and drive execution from initial idea through successful at sea demonstration. You will set the technical vision and lead multidisciplinary teams working on next generation Counter Uncrewed Underwater Vehicle (C UUV) technologies, acoustic underwater sensing and signal processing, noise control, undersea robotics, and other advanced undersea systems. You will engage directly with U.S. Government and industry partners, define new capabilities, and deliver operationally relevant solutions. What you will do: Technical Leadership & Vision Define and lead a research agenda in advanced undersea sensing and robotics, with emphasis on C UUV, acoustic sensing, signal processing, and noise control Architect system level solutions for uncrewed undersea vehicles, sensor payloads, and command and control (C2) systems, including sensing, processing, autonomy, and communications Provide technical direction to electrical, mechanical, software, and systems engineers; ensure integration of hardware, software, and algorithms into robust undersea systems An ideal candidate need not have depth in all areas of a system (electrical, mechanical, software, etc.), but needs to understand their system-level interplay and be able to lead a team across disciplines Innovation, Capture, and Customer Engagement Generate new concepts and technology approaches that address emerging undersea mission needs and capability gaps Lead the development of white papers, proposals, and briefings; pitch ideas and technical solutions to U.S. Government and other customers Shape program scope, technical objectives, and execution plans in collaboration with business development and program management Serve as the primary technical interface to customers, communicating trade offs, risks, and progress clearly and credibly Program Execution & Team Leadership Translate concepts into executable technical plans and collaborate with a Program Manager to develop work breakdown structures, schedules, risk management, and resource planning Lead technical teams through design, implementation, integration, and test of undersea systems, from lab prototypes to at sea demonstrations Ensure rigorous system level testing (HIL, lab, pool, and at sea), and drive iterative improvement based on test data and operational feedback Mentor and develop early career engineers and researchers; foster a culture of technical excellence, collaboration, and hands on problem solving Technical Execution (Domain Expertise) Provide technical expertise in an area of undersea research. This may include: Guide the design and integration of advanced acoustic sensing systems, including transducer arrays, front end electronics, and digital signal processing chains Lead research in C UUV detection, tracking, and defeat concepts, including sensing modalities, classification algorithms, and autonomous behaviors Direct efforts in noise control and signature management for undersea platforms and sensors Oversee embedded and real time processing architectures (e.g., FPGAs, GPUs, SBCs) supporting autonomy, signal processing, and C2 Maintain awareness of state of the art undersea technologies and incorporate relevant advances into ongoing and future programs Who you are: Ability to obtain a Top Secret security clearance with special access, for which U.S citizenship is needed by the U.S government Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Ocean Engineering, Acoustics, Robotics, or a closely related field, and substantial experience (typically 8+ years) in undersea systems, sensing, or robotics; or equivalent combination of education and experience Experience as a technical lead on a complex R&D program, preferably in undersea or maritime domains Deep hands on experience in at least one core area: Acoustic underwater sensing and signal processing Counter UUV or undersea defense systems Undersea robotics and autonomy Noise control / signature management for undersea platforms Proven ability to: Develop innovative technical concepts and architectures Write and win competitive proposals or lead major technical captures Plan and manage technical execution for multidisciplinary teams Strong systems engineering mindset, including requirements development, architecture definition, trade studies, and verification/validation Practical familiarity with embedded systems and real time control (e.g., microcontrollers, FPGAs, SBCs) and their role in undersea platforms and sensing systems Experience with modeling, simulation, or analytical tools to set and assess performance expectations for UUVs or sensor systems Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to brief senior stakeholders and customers Even Better: Prior experience as a Principal Investigator or Chief Engineer on undersea robotics, UUV, advanced sensing, or complex R&D programs Experience designing electronics and systems for marine or other harsh environments (pressure, corrosion, moisture, vibration) Familiarity with robotic and autonomy frameworks (e.g., ROS, MOOS IvP, UMAA) and their integration with vehicle electronics and sensing systems Experience with advanced acoustic signal processing including array processing, detection, classification, localization, and tracking Background in control systems, sensor fusion, and their implications for hardware design, timing, and system architecture Experience with hardware in the loop (HIL) test setups, system level simulation, and at sea test campaigns, including deployment, operation, and recovery Experience interacting with the U.S. Navy or other U.S. Government organizations, including classified or special access programs Active Top Secret security clearance and prior special access program experience Experience with agile development methodologies and modern configuration management (e.g., Git) for hardware, firmware, and analysis tools This role is suited for a technical leader who thrives at the intersection of innovation, customer engagement, and hands on engineering, and who wants to shape the next generation of undersea sensing and robotic capabilities. Why Join Us? This is an opportunity to contribute to the development of groundbreaking undersea robotic and sensing systems that will shape the future of maritime autonomy. You will work alongside a passionate and talented team, tackling some of the most challenging and rewarding problems in the field. If you are a visionary roboticist with a drive to innovate and lead, we want to hear from you. Apply today and help us redefine what's possible beneath the waves. Pay Information Full-Time Salary Range: $220,000 - $260,000 The salary range listed is based on external market data. Offers are based on factors, such as but not limited to, the candidate's experience, education, training, key skills/critical skills, security clearances, and prevailing market and business conditions. STR is a growing technology company with locations near Boston, MA, Arlington, VA, near Dayton, OH, Melbourne, FL, Carlsbad, CA, Atlanta, GA, and Denver, CO. We specialize in advanced research and development for defense, intelligence, and national security in: cyber; next generation sensors, radar, sonar, communications, and electronic warfare; and artificial intelligence algorithms and analytics to make sense of the complexity that is exploding around us. STR is committed to creating a collaborative learning environment that supports deep technical understanding and recognizes the contributions and achievements of all team members. Our work is challenging, and we go home at night knowing that we pushed the envelope of technology and made the world safer. STR is not just any company. Our people, culture, and attitude along with their unique set of skills, experiences, and perspectives put us on a trajectory to change the world. We can't do it alone, though - we need fellow trailblazers. If you are one, join our team and help to keep our society safe! Visit us at for more info. STR is an equal opportunity employer. We are fully dedicated to hiring the most qualified candidate regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), marital status . click apply for full job details