Southwest Research InstituteAbout this role
Who We Are:
The Spectrum Innovation section within the Defense & Intelligence Solutions Division specializes in innovating the next generation of Electronic Warfare to benefit warfighters around the globe.
Objectives of this Role:
Architect mission-tailored neural network models that address critical electronic warfare challenges, including cognitive EW, real-time RF signal classification, spectrum agility, and automated electronic attack/protection techniques.Drive synthetic and measured data generation pipelines to ensure robust, validated, and representative RF and EW datasets are established for training, fine-tuning, and testing mission-critical algorithms.Conduct rigorous technical assessments of emerging commercial and academic AI/ML frameworks to advise clients and program leadership on architectural trade-offs, feasibility, and edge deployment viability.Serve as a primary technical advisor and liaison in sprint reviews, milestone gates, and customer-facing briefings to clearly communicate technical risks, algorithmic performance metrics, and project status.Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:
Design, train, optimize, and profile custom deep learning architectures (e.g., CNNs, RNNs/Transformers, graph neural networks, or neuromorphic models) for RF signal characterization and EW countermeasure development.Develop, preprocess, and validate multi-sensor RF and EW datasets through synthetic generation tools, hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL) lab collections, and signal processing transformations.Conduct systematic benchmarking, technical reviews, and stress testing of third-party or client-provided ML architectures to deliver comprehensive evaluation reports and recommendations.Prepare and deliver progress briefings, technical demonstrations, and sprint milestone updates to cross-functional engineering teams, management, and external customer sponsors.Collaborate with systems and embedded software engineers to containerize models and ensure architectural compatibility with modular frameworks and edge compute constraints.Requirements:
Requires a Bachelors or a Masters degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science or related technical degree field with research and/or experience focused on machine learning and signal processing.4-8 years: Hands-on experience architecting, training, and deploying deep learning models using modern frameworks such as PyTorch or TensorFlow, with a demonstrated focus on complex or non-traditional data types.3 years: Practical experience building end-to-end data pipelines, including the generation of synthetic data, augmentation of sparse datasets, and formal data quality/labeling validation for mission-critical systems.3 years: Professional experience in technical communication, including authoring formal evaluation reports, presenting at customer design reviews, and leading technical discussions across multidisciplinary teams.1 years: Demonstrated experience applying machine learning techniques to digital signal processing (DSP), radio frequency (RF) signals, communications, or electronic warfare domains (e.g., modulation recognition, spectrum sensing, emitter identification).A valid/clear drivers license is required.
Benefits:
Paid Sick Days, Parking, Professional Development, Employee Referral Program, Flexible Spending Accounts, Employee Events, Retirement / Pension Plans, Tuition Reimbursement, Health Care on Site, Merchandise Discounts, Military Leave, On Site Cafeteria
Skills:
Agile Programming Methodologies, Algorithms, Architectural Services, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Benchmarking, Communication Skills, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Cross-Functional, Customer Relations, Data Management, Data Quality, Data Science, Data Sets, Deep Learning, Defense Intelligence, Digital Signal Processing (DSP), Driver's License, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Warfare, Embedded Software, Embedded Systems, Emerging Technology, Leadership, Machine Learning, Neural Networks, Performance Metrics, Product Demonstration, Radio Frequency, Sales Presentation, Scientific Research, Signal Processing, Software Engineering, Stress Testing, Technical Analysis, Technical Leadership, Technical Presentation
Southwest Research Institute
We are R&D problem solvers providing independent, premier services to government and industry clients. Our multidisciplinary nature allows us to rapidly assemble diverse teams to tackle problems from multiple directions. We push the boundaries of science and technology to develop innovative solutions that advance the state of the art and improve human health and safety. Operating as a nonprofit since our 1947 inception, we work in the public’s best interest and toward the betterment of mankind. At SwRI, we tirelessly pursue innovation and excellence in science and technology for the betterment of humankind. We support work on nearly 4,000 client projects at any given time through a wide range of technical competencies with 2,574 staff members in nine technical divisions. Client services include, but are not limited to, Automotive and Transportation, Biomedical & Health, Chemistry & Materials, Computers and Electronics, Defense & Security, Earth & Space, Energy & Environment, and Manufacturing & Construction.
TECHNICAL DIVISIONS
Applied Physics-Developing advanced electronic and microelectronic devices, power supplies, voice and data communication systems, robot test services, and payloads
Applied Power-Using physical science research and applied engineering to produce sensors, instruments, and hardware used worldwide.
Center for Nuclear Waste Regulatory Analyses-Resolving technical and regulatory issues related to a potential geologic repository for spent nuclear fule and high-level radioactive waste.
Chemistry and Chemical Engineering-Performing research and technical services using chemistry and chemical engineering technology.
Defense and & Intelligence Solutions-Providing advanced direction finding and tracking systems through geolocation system development.
Fuels and Lubricants Research-Performing fuels and lubricants research activities to meet regulatory and competitive goals.
Intelligent Systems-Providing engineering services in resaerch and development of complex systems and equipment.
Mechanical Engineering-Improving safety, reliability, efficiency and life of new or existing mechanical components or systems.
Powertrain Engineering-Designing and developing vehicle and engine components to achieve performance and emissions goals.
Space Science & Engineering-Developing and managing advanced scientific payloads aboard satellites and sounding rockets.
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
Innovation in science and technology has been a hallmark of Southwest Research Institute since its earliest days. It's no exaggeration to say we are committed to advancing science and applying technology to benefit government, industry, and all humankind. That is our mission. Our multidisciplinary, collaborative approach allows us to successfully solve clients' most challenging problems. Today, we are a leader among independent, nonprofit research and development organizations. Our staff of 2,574 scientists, engineers, analysts, and support staff members continues to accomplish outstanding fundamental and applied engineering and research for clients from diverse segments of government and industry. Adam L. Hamilton, P.E, President and CEO
IN THE COMMUNITY
Our staff is expert at developing solutions that help build a better tomorrow today; and that practical, innovative spirit carries through to our community interactions. Staff members generously donate time and outher resources to support food drives, blood drives, and other
outreach programs.
HONORS AND AWARDS
Southwest Research Institute has earned 43 R&D 100 awards since 1971. Each year R&D Magazine recognizes developments regarded as among the 100 most significant technical accomplishments. The Chicago Tribune dubbed the program "the Oscars of Invention".
Company Size:
2,000 to 2,499 employees
Industry:
Engineering Services
1947
Website:
http://www.swri.org/
Company:
Southwest Research Institute
Level of experience (years):
Senior (5+ years of experience)
How to apply:
Please mention NLP People as a source when applying