The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Sensor Physics and Signal Processing Engineer.
Position Details Location Marine Research Center
1030 West Pier, Port of Gulfport
Gulfport, Mississippi, 39501
United States Division Ocean Enterprise Position Type Staff Employment Status Full Time Grant Funded Yes Salary Range 70,536.00 - 95,432.00 Pay Grade
E14
Posting Close Date September 19, 2026
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).
The Sensor Physics and Signal Processing Engineer conducts engineering and applied physics research involving the development, implementation, and evaluation of signal processing techniques and physics-based sensing methods for autonomous underwater systems. The position develops and evaluates acoustic, magnetic, and other sensing algorithms; characterizes sensor performance; and investigates the effects of environmental and operational conditions on sensing capabilities. Working collaboratively with multidisciplinary research and engineering teams, the position supports the development, testing, and transition of advanced sensing technologies that improve autonomous perception and decision-making at the Center for Ocean Enterprise.
Primary Job Duties and ResponsibilitiesDevelops, implements, and evaluates signal processing algorithms for acoustic, magnetic, and other underwater sensing systems. Characterizes sensor performance and evaluates the effects of environmental and operational conditions on sensing capability, data quality, and detection performance. Develops detection, filtering, feature extraction, and sensor characterization techniques to support autonomous underwater sensing and perception. Collaborates with AI/ML, software, autonomy, and systems engineering researchers to integrate sensing algorithms into edge-deployable autonomous systems. Supports laboratory integration, simulation, pool testing, and open-water demonstrations involving autonomous underwater vehicles and advanced sensor payloads. Evaluates sensor performance through laboratory experiments, field-collected datasets, simulations, and modeling tools and documents findings through technical reports, publications, and presentations. Translates research findings into operational capabilities through the development, validation, and transition of sensing technologies for intelligent autonomous systems. Maintains knowledge of advances in underwater sensing, signal processing, and applied sensor physics and applies emerging methods to improve sensing performance in operational environments.
Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in Applied Physics, Physics, Geophysics, Remote Sensing, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field and six (6) years of related experience; or a Ph.D. from an accredited college or university in Applied Physics, Physics, Geophysics, Remote Sensing, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field and four (4) years of related experience. Experience in signal processing, sensor characterization, physics-based sensing, or related research. U.S. Citizenship with the ability to obtain a government security clearance. Valid driver’s license and eligibility to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA) Knowledge of signal processing principles and their application to acoustic, magnetic, and other sensing systems. Knowledge of physical principles governing underwater sensing systems and the effects of environmental and operational conditions on sensor performance. Knowledge of detection, filtering, feature extraction, sensor characterization, and performance evaluation techniques. Skill in developing, implementing, and evaluating signal processing and sensing algorithms. Skill in processing, analyzing, and interpreting large scientific and sensor datasets. Skill in scientific programming using Python, C/C++, or comparable programming languages and analysis tools. Ability to design and support laboratory experiments, simulations, and field testing of sensing systems. Ability to evaluate sensing system performance and translate scientific findings into practical engineering and operational solutions. Ability to interpret and apply scientific literature and emerging research methods. Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams, including AI/ML, software, autonomy, and systems engineering researchers. Ability to prepare technical reports, research publications, presentations, and other scientific documentation. Ability to work independently, manage multiple research priorities, and contribute effectively within a collaborative research environment.Preferred Qualifications
Experience with acoustic, magnetic, or other underwater sensing systems and signal processing techniques for sonar, radar, lidar, or related sensing applications. Experience evaluating the effects of environmental and operational conditions on sensor performance and applying sensor characterization techniques. Proficiency with Python, C/C++, or comparable scientific programming languages. Contributions to applied research, technical reports, conference presentations, or peer-reviewed publications in signal processing, sensor physics, autonomous systems, or a related field preferred.
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.
Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.
We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.
The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.
