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2026 Communications System and DSP Engineer with Security Clearance

Confidential ClientAerospace & Defense
Entry LevelFull-timeOn-Site$127,169
El Segundo, California
2 Days Ago

The Communications Systems and DSP Engineer at Confidential Client will work full-time on-site in El Segundo, CA, contributing to the research, development, and evaluation of RF and satellite communication systems for national security space programs. This entry-level role involves solving technical problems in physical layer modeling, waveform design, DSP algorithm development, and hardware prototyping, under expert mentorship, supporting critical space missions and advancing national security objectives.

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Description

About Careertakes

👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.

Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.


What You’ll Do

As a member of the Communications Systems team, you will contribute to RF and satellite communications engineering and digital signal processing (DSP) work. Typical responsibilities include:

  • Solve technical problems under supervision across the physical layer, waveform design, and DSP algorithm development
  • Develop and validate communication waveforms and perform link-level performance analysis
  • Build and verify DSP algorithms in simulation and prototype them in the lab and field
  • Model and simulate communication channels, noise, and interference effects
  • Evaluate programs of record and new concepts in satellite communications, SIGINT, and electronic warfare (EW)
  • Translate high-level concepts into testable technical plans and experimental procedures
  • Prepare clear written reports and give technical presentations to internal teams and stakeholders
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineers, government customers, and contractors

Minimum Qualifications

To be considered you must meet these minimum requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, or a related technical discipline (degree conferred or expected within last 12 months)
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0
  • 0–1 year of industry experience (recent graduates encouraged to apply)
  • Coursework, academic projects, or internships involving communications systems, DSP, or probability & random processes
  • Practical programming experience in MATLAB, Python, and/or C/C++
  • Willingness to travel occasionally within the U.S. (typically ~10%, up to 20% as needed)
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance (U.S. citizenship required)

Preferred (How You Can Stand Out)

The following qualifications will make your application more competitive:

  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
  • GPA ≥ 3.5
  • Graduate TA or research assistant experience
  • Strong understanding of advanced communications and DSP concepts (modulation, coding, synchronization, estimation, detection theory, waveform design, channel models, link budgeting)
  • Hands-on experience with lab test equipment (signal generators, spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, network analyzers) and software-defined radios
  • Familiarity with machine learning workflows and tools applied to signals or communications
  • Active security clearance

Compensation & Benefits

  • Base salary range: $90,000.00 - $110,000.00 per year (grade-based; actual pay determined by experience, education, and skills)
  • Competitive benefits package including:
    • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
    • Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
    • 401(k) plan with company-paid contributions and immediate vesting
    • Flexible spending accounts
    • Variable pay/bonus programs for exceptional contributions
    • Professional development and education assistance
    • Relocation assistance (where applicable)
    • Inclusive work environment focused on teamwork and respect

Work Model & Additional Details

  • Work model: Full-time, on-site at the El Segundo, CA facility (the role requires on-site presence)
  • Typical travel: ~10% domestic; may increase to ~20% for specific customer needs
  • Security: Must be eligible to obtain a TS/SCI clearance — U.S. citizenship required
  • This role is posted for an engineering position supporting national-security space programs; work will include classified and unclassified tasks as appropriate
  • Confidential client is an equal opportunity employer and provides reasonable accommodation during the application process upon request

Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency

Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.

If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.

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