Algorithm Engineer

Company Description

Starbird AI is building next-generation positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) technology. We operate at the intersection of satellite signal processing, advanced algorithm design, and defense-grade resilience. Our team is solving hard problems in signal detection, Doppler estimation, and navigation — pushing the boundaries of what's possible in contested and GPS-challenged environments.

Role Description

We're looking for an Algorithm Engineer to join our core R&D team. You'll design and implement the signal processing and navigation algorithms at the heart of our technology — from signal detection and acquisition through positioning and tracking.

What You'll Do?

1. Design and implement CFO (Carrier Frequency Offset) estimation and correction algorithms for satellite downlink signals
2. Develop signal detection and acquisition pipelines, including matched filtering, energy detection, and blind signal identification in low-SNR regimes
3. Build and optimize correlation-based algorithms for synchronization, signal tracking, and parameter extraction
4. Implement Doppler tracking loops (code and carrier phase) for multiple satellite signals, including Kalman filter-based tracking
5. Work on carrier phase tracking and Doppler-based positioning algorithms to achieve high-accuracy navigation solutions
6. Develop and validate algorithms in MATLAB and/or Python, transitioning to FPGA/embedded implementations
7. Support simulation, recording, and analysis of real satellite signals using SDR-based data capture systems

What You Bring?

1. M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or a related field
2. Proven experience in satellite communications, navigation systems, or radar signal processing
3. Deep understanding of Doppler estimation and tracking, correlation techniques, and carrier/code synchronization
4. Hands-on experience with CFO estimation methods (autocorrelation-based, matched-filter-based, or equivalent)
5. Strong background in at least one of the following: GNSS receiver design, LEO satellite signal processing, opportunistic navigation (SoOP/PNT), or communication waveform analysis (OFDM, spread spectrum)
6. Proficiency in MATLAB and/or Python for algorithm development and simulation
7. Familiarity with SDR platforms (LimeSDR, HackRF, USRP, or similar) — a strong advantage
8. Experience with Kalman filtering, inertial navigation fusion (IMU/INS), or sensor fusion — a strong advantage
9. Knowledge of Ku-band RF systems, LNBs, and downconverter chains — a plus
10. Experience transitioning algorithms to FPGA or embedded targets — a plus

Why Join Us?

You'll be working at the forefront of alternative PNT — one of the most critical gaps in modern defense and autonomous systems. Recent real-world events have proven that GPS denial is not a future risk but a current operational reality. This is a chance to build technology with direct impact on defense, autonomous systems, and critical infrastructure resilience.

Location: Israel (on-site / hybrid)

Interested? Apply now or reach out directly.