Acoustic Signal Processing Engineer

Location: The Hague, Netherlands
Industry: Autonomous Robotics / Underwater Sensing / Deep Tech

The Role:

We are looking for an Acoustic Signal Processing Engineer to design and implement advanced algorithms for underwater acoustic sensing, positioning, and communication systems.

This role focuses on taking signal processing concepts from theory through to real-time performance on embedded platforms. You will work directly with field data, experimental systems, and autonomous robotic platforms operating in complex underwater environments.

The work sits at the intersection of signal processing, sensing, and autonomy, with direct application to real-world marine and offshore systems.

Key Responsibilities:

Develop and implement signal processing algorithms for underwater acoustic sensing, localisation, and communication

Design and validate real-time processing solutions for embedded and autonomous systems

Work with noisy, real-world sensor data from experimental and field deployments

Develop localisation and array processing methods for underwater environments

Build and maintain sensor fusion and estimation pipelines

Apply nonlinear filtering techniques (e.g., Kalman-based and alternatives) where appropriate

Analyse system performance using experimental data and iterate on algorithm design

Support integration of signal processing modules into broader autonomy systems

Take ownership of technical challenges from concept through to deployment

Requirements (your profile):

Strong background in signal processing (acoustics, RF, telecom, or similar domain)

Experience working with real sensor data and experimental systems

Knowledge of localisation techniques and/or array signal processing

Understanding of estimation and filtering methods (e.g., Kalman filtering or equivalents)

Strong programming ability (Python and/or C++ preferred)

Ability to translate theoretical models into robust, production-ready code

Comfortable working hands-on with hardware, testing, and iterative development

Strong analytical mindset and ability to work independently

Preferred (Nice to have):

Experience in underwater acoustics, sonar, or hydroacoustic systems

Background in telecoms, modems, or communications signal processing

Exposure to robotics, autonomous systems, or embedded platforms

Experience with sensor fusion in complex or noisy environments

Familiarity with real-time or embedded signal processing

Interest in marine, offshore, or defence-adjacent applications

What’s on Offer:

High autonomy and ownership of complex technical problems

Opportunity to work on advanced autonomous sensing and robotics systems

Rapid iteration cycle between development, testing, and field deployment

Small, highly technical R&D environment with strong engineering focus

Real-world impact through applied sensing and autonomy technologies

Competitive salary and 30 days holiday

Room to grow technically and shape your own areas of responsibility

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

Veronica Gains

Acoustics Signal Processing Engineer