Embedded DSP Engineer (Engineer II or Research Engineer)
 Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution | |
 United States, Massachusetts, Woods Hole | |
 Mar 04, 2026 | |
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Job Summary The Applied Ocean Physics and Engineering Department is recruiting qualified candidates for a position in digital signal processing in support of applied research and development of acoustic communications and related areas of underwater acoustics. The work will primarily involve development, implementation and maintenance of software and firmware for underwater acoustic modems and navigation systems.The communications and navigation system is implemented on real-time embedded DSPs and microcontrollers. In addition, the position may include general underwater acoustic signal analysis and array processing using Matlab tools, and prototyping of candidate algorithms to estimate performance and compare complexity. The position will also involve going to sea to support data collection and experimentation, and extensive post-processing and analysis. Job Description The internal working title for this position will be Engineer II or Research Engineer. The final level of the position will be determined commensurate with the selected candidate's level of education & experience. Engineer II: With some supervision to achieve assigned objectives, identifies and participates in engineering projects in support of scientific and research activities through the demonstration of one or more specialized skills. Will be expected to work on tasks requiring creativity and independent thinking, along with a proven understanding of fundamental research and engineering principles. Research Engineer: With little supervision, works creatively and independently to establish objectives, meet deadlines, and complete difficult engineering assignments by demonstrating full competency in one or more engineering areas; assists substantively in planning technical aspects of experiments, as well as design, testing, and use of major system components. Essential Functions The required skills of the position include:
Required Experience & Education Engineer II: Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering discipline with 2+ years of demonstrated related experience or a Master's degree in electrical engineering. Research Engineer: Ph.D. in related engineering field, or Master's degree in an engineering or appropriate field with several years of related experience, or Bachelor's degree in an engineering or appropriate field with more than five years of related experience. Additional Job Requirements Engineer II Salary Range: $89,408 - $116,127 Research Engineer: $113,650 - $148,216 The salary range provided for this position reflects the expected minimum and maximum base pay for new hires. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as relevant skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as internal equity and market conditions. In addition to base salary, eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package. Sea Duty May work at least 8 hours per day and, at times in excess of 12 hours per day, 7 days per week. Sleep and work hours can deviate from those on land. May be expected to work on watch schedule (such as 8 hours on and 8 hours off or 12 hours on and 8 hours off) for all or part of a cruise or to work as hours are needed to accomplish the planned work. May need to travel during holidays and for long distances to and from foreign ports. May experience rudimentary living and working conditions, with shared and basic living quarters and laboratories. May experience bad or extreme weather conditions, including heavy seas, winter weather or hot, tropical weather. Work on deck may occur in both hot and cold conditions around the clock. Sea conditions will lead to active ship motion. Should be able to climb steep and vertical ladders and able to enter and exit compartments through hatches, doors, and sills. Should be able to carry heavy gear and participate in the loading and unloading of the ship as well as in the activities on deck and in the labs during the cruise. Shipboard environment may include: confined areas, shared sleeping quarters (berths) and bathroom facilities, small and basic berthing, fixed meal times and basic menus. Modest levels of heating, cooling, ventilation, and illumination, limited or no email and internet access and limited off-duty and recreational facilities (library, lounge, movies). May be exposed to potential allergens and irritants, including paint fumes. Travel May be required to travel for fieldwork. May need to travel during holidays and for long distances to and from foreign ports. May experience rudimentary living and working conditions, with shared and basic living quarters and laboratories. US Citizenship required Please include cover letter as part of your application WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process. EEO Statement Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. | |