RF Machine Learning Engineer II

Join Axon and be a Force for Good.

At Axon, we’re on a mission to Protect Life. We’re explorers, pursuing society’s most critical safety and justice issues with our ecosystem of devices and cloud software. Like our products, we work better together. We connect with candor and care, seeking out diverse perspectives from our customers, communities and each other.

Life at Axon is fast-paced, challenging and meaningful. Here, you’ll take ownership and drive real change. Constantly grow as you work hard for a mission that matters at a company where you matter.

Your Impact

Dedrone is seeking a passionate and experienced RF Machine Learning Engineer to join our innovative team. In this role, you will work at the intersection of digital signal processing (DSP) and machine learning to analyze, detect, and optimize wireless communication systems. If you thrive on solving real-world challenges in communication systems through advanced techniques in linear algebra, probability theory, statistics, and optimization, this is an incredible opportunity to make an impact.

What You'll do

Location: Work onsite at least 2 days at our office in Sterling, VA
Reports to: Director of Machine Learning Engineering

• DSP and Protocol Analysis:
  • Develop software-defined radio (SDR) systems to detect, interpret, and classify wireless communication protocols.
  • Utilize advanced signal processing techniques including cyclostationary analysis and other feature extraction methods for robust signal characterization.
  • Investigate and implement forward and reverse engineering approaches for various communication systems.
• Machine Learning Integration:
  • Apply machine learning techniques to tackle complex DSP challenges, such as object detection in spectral data and nonlinear optimization.
  • Employ frameworks like TensorFlow, PyTorch, or JAX to build, train, and optimize ML models specifically designed for RF applications.
  • Research and incorporate cutting-edge ML methods (e.g., self-supervised learning, reinforcement learning) to enhance system adaptivity and resilience.
• Advanced DSP Techniques:
  • Leverage deep knowledge of linear algebra, probability, statistics, and optimization to improve signal detection, classification, and interference mitigation.
  • Implement sophisticated methods like beamforming, MIMO analysis, and multipath mitigation strategies.
  • Work with spread-spectrum techniques, OFDM, LoRa, and other modulation/coding schemes to ensure robust and efficient wireless communication.
• Real-World Testing & Deployment:
  • Design and conduct experiments in lab and field environments using SDR platforms, spectrum analyzers, and other measurement equipment.
  • Translate research prototypes into production-grade solutions, validating model performance under realistic RF conditions, interference scenarios, and hardware constraints.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate ML-driven DSP solutions into existing infrastructure, ensuring reliable operation in dynamic, real-world environments.

What You Bring

• Experience:
  • Minimum of 6 years of experience in software-defined radio (SDR) development, wireless communication system analysis, and advanced DSP.
• Technical Skills:
  • Deep understanding of DSP, including protocol analysis, spectral feature extraction, and cyclostationary analysis.
  • Hands-on experience with GNU Radio and proficiency in wireless communication protocols (e.g., OFDM, LoRa).
  • Strong knowledge of linear algebra, probability theory, statistics, and optimization methods.
  • Familiarity with advanced signal processing techniques (e.g., beamforming, spread-spectrum coding, MIMO).
  • Experience with machine learning for DSP, including object detection and nonlinear optimization, using frameworks like TensorFlow, PyTorch, or JAX.
• Other Requirements:
  • A strong interest in merging DSP and ML methods to solve complex RF challenges.
  • Ability to handle large datasets, develop robust data pipelines, and leverage GPU-accelerated computing where needed.
  • Comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.
  • Excellent communication skills and a track record of transitioning solutions from R&D to real-world deployment.

Benefits that Benefit You

• Competitive salary and 401k with employer match
• Discretionary paid time off
• Paid parental leave for all
• Medical, Dental, Vision plans
• Fitness Programs
• Emotional & Mental Wellness support
• Learning & Development programs
• And yes, we have snacks in our offices

Benefits listed herein may vary depending on the nature of your employment and the location where you work

Don’t meet every single requirement? That's ok. At Axon, we Aim Far. We think big with a long-term view because we want to reinvent the world to be a safer, better place. We are also committed to building diverse teams that reflect the communities we serve.

Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they check every box in the job description. If you’re excited about this role and our mission to Protect Life but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification listed here, we encourage you to apply anyways. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Important Notes

The above job description is not intended as, nor should it be construed as, exhaustive of all duties, responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with this job. The job description may change or be supplemented at any time in accordance with business needs and conditions.

Some roles may also require legal eligibility to work in a firearms environment.

Axon’s mission is to Protect Life and is committed to the well-being and safety of its employees as well as Axon’s impact on the environment. All Axon employees must be aware of and committed to the appropriate environmental, health, and safety regulations, policies, and procedures. Axon employees are empowered to report safety concerns as they arise and activities potentially impacting the environment.

We are an equal opportunity employer that promotes justice, advances equity, values diversity and fosters inclusion. We’re committed to hiring the best talent — regardless of race, creed, color, ancestry, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations and ordinances — and empowering all of our employees so they can do their best work. If you have a disability or special need that requires assistance or accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please email recruitingops@axon.com. Please note that this email address is for accommodation purposes only. Axon will not respond to inquiries for other purposes.