Principal Ocean Systems Engineer Communications

Principal Ocean Systems Engineer CommunicationsA confidential defense employer in Groton, Connecticut, seeks a Principal Ocean Systems Engineer to drive innovation in undersea communications and sonar systems. This full-time direct-hire role is an opportunity to shape next-generation maritime technology with a team that values technical leadership and mission impact.Role SnapshotCompany Confidential Employer Location Groton, Connecticut, USA Industry Defense Compensation DOE Employment Type Full Time/Direct Hire Remote Status No Remote Total Openings 1 Work Experience 7 yearsOpportunityAre you an experienced systems engineer ready to lead the charge in undersea communications? A confidential defense employer is searching for a Principal Ocean Systems Engineer to tackle the most challenging problems in maritime technology. This full-time position, based in Groton, Connecticut or Concord, Massachusetts, offers the chance to work on projects that directly support national security and push the boundaries of what is possible beneath the waves.You will drive the creation of advanced sonar and communication systems for autonomous underwater vehicles and other maritime platforms. Your work will involve everything from conceptual design and hardware prototyping to field testing and performance analysis. This is not a desk job—you will be out on the water, validating your designs and seeing your ideas come to life. Each project you lead will directly shape the future of undersea warfare and protect those who serve.The ideal candidate brings a graduate degree in engineering or a related field, along with deep expertise in digital communications, acoustic signal processing, or maritime hardware. You have led teams, written winning proposals, and delivered results for demanding DoD customers. Your MATLAB skills are expert-level, and you are no stranger to low-power embedded processors, sensor arrays, or transducers. You thrive on solving complex problems and can clearly communicate your vision to both technical and non-technical audiences.This is your opportunity to join a team that values innovation, initiative, and impact. You will be entrusted with significant responsibility and given the resources to succeed. If you are a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain a security clearance and are ready to make waves in undersea technology, we want to hear from you. Apply today and take the next step in your career.Non-NegotiablesA BS, MS, or PhD in electrical, ocean, or mechanical engineering, acoustics, or a closely related field is requiredSubject matter expertise in digital communications, maritime hardware design, robotics, or acoustic signal processing is essentialHands-on experience with marine hardware such as sensor arrays, data acquisition systems, and embedded processors is a mustDemonstrated project leadership experience within defense or related industry settings is non-negotiableExceptional written and oral communication skills for customer briefs and team coordination are requiredExpert-level MATLAB programming skills are a firm requirementThe candidate must be a US citizen and able to obtain a DoD security clearanceWhat's In It For YouWork on cutting-edge undersea communication and sonar projects that directly impact national defenseTake ownership of innovative R&D programs with the autonomy to shape technical directionCollaborate with a highly skilled team in a supportive, mission-driven environmentGain visibility and professional growth through direct customer interactions and technical conference presentationsEnjoy the quality of life in Groton, Connecticut, a community with deep maritime heritage and access to New England coastlinesThe role offers a clear path for career advancement as a principal investigator on high-profile DoD programsBenefit from a full-time, direct-hire position with stability and long-term potentialResponsibilitiesLead the design and development of innovative maritime communication and sonar systems for autonomous underwater vehicles and other platformsServe as a principal investigator, guiding technical projects from concept through prototype demonstration and testingWrite proposals and lead new business captures to secure R&D funding from DoD agencies like DARPA, ONR, and NAVSEAField systems off-site, run prototype demonstrations, and process collected data to assess system performanceCollaborate with customers and internal teams to create presentation materials and debrief stakeholders on outcomesPlan and manage project schedules, resources, and team assignments to achieve milestonesAuthor technical reports, white papers, and conference presentations to disseminate results and support business developmentPreferred QualificationsSeveral years of experience developing sonar or communications systems is highly valuedExperience as a principal investigator on R&D programs for DARPA, ONR, NAVSEA, or similar DoD customers is preferredC/C++ and Linux programming skills are a strong plusPrior experience with acoustic modems, adaptive equalization, or underwater propagation models is desiredKnowledge of data encryption, anti-tamper, and information assurance requirements is advantageousA track record of presenting at technical conferences and creating technical content for business development is a differentiatorExperience designing electronic or software systems for maritime platforms like buoys, UxVs, or submarines is a bonusFrom Hire PerspectivesHire Perspectives helps engineers and engineering employers understand the hidden signals behind hiring, career movement, technical credibility, and talent decisions.Explore Hire Perspectives ?Ready for the Next Step?Apply Today if this role fits your background and the kind of engineering work you want to own next.