Sr Signal Processing Research Engineer II

Join a world-class research team developing advanced digital signal processing algorithms that power the next generation of AI-enabled hearing technology. We are specifically looking for candidate with training and experience in developing audio algorithms for ear-level devices and hearing aids, particularly in low-latency signal processing. Key areas include acoustic signal control, feedback cancellation, speech enhancement, and acoustic scene analysis.

Starkey is a world leader in the manufacturing and distribution of advanced hearing technologies. We are in the business of connecting people and changing lives. Our teams come to work each day focused on ensuring people everywhere have the products and services they need to hear better and live better.

Founded in 1967 by Bill Austin, Starkey is known for our cutting-edge hearing health innovations, industry-leading research and development, and not being afraid to push the edge of what's possible.

We are headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, have over 5,000 employees in 29 facilities across the globe, and do business in more than 100 markets worldwide.

Watch this video to see more of what sets Starkey apart:

https://youtu.be/9cUYwTlCepg?si=wkovx8_R_iINfrc6

JOB SUMMARY DESCRIPTION / PRIMARY PURPOSE OF JOB

Join a world-class research team developing advanced digital signal processing algorithms that power the next generation of AI-enabled hearing technology. In this role at Starkey, you will lead innovative signal processing and machine learning research as part of the Algorithms Group. Beyond individual project work, you will partner with other project leads to plan and execute collaborations between the Algorithms Group and multidisciplinary engineering teams across Starkey. Together, you will translate breakthrough ideas into commercial products and contribute to patents and technologies that improve the lives of millions worldwide.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES/RESULTS

• Research digital signal processing algorithms for hearing aids




• Propose the research project plan
• Review the existing literature, competitive products, and patents
• Propose a set of algorithm candidates
• Prototype the algorithm candidates using simulation and/or various research platforms
• Evaluate the algorithm candidates based on a combination of laboratory evaluation, field evaluation and benchmarking
• Select the final algorithm
• Generate the research report




• Actively work with product development groups to bring the research results to products




• Coordinate with the product development groups to transfer the research results to products
• Provide input to the firmware requirements definition
• Work with the DSP technology engineers to identify and make the design tradeoffs
• Provide technical support to the clinical validation effort
• Providing technical training to product development group members




• Provide technical leadership in various research and development activities




• Demonstrate technical expertise in one or more major signal processing algorithms
• Serve as a principal investigator for one or more research projects
• Provide technical consultation to junior engineers
• Actively monitor, identify, and propose new research and development opportunities
• Work with the management to maintain and enhance the group dynamics and processes




• Participate in and contribute to general DSP research and development activities




• Participate in and contribute to the relevant professional conferences
• Participate in and contribute to the DSP Journal Seminar
• Participate in and contribute to the competitive analysis efforts
• Participate in and contribute to the benchmarking efforts
• Participate in and contribute to the intellectual property related activities, such as patents

JOB REQUIREMENTS
Education

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field required.

Experience

• Senior Engineer II: A minimum of 3 years of applicable experience is required for candidates with a Ph.D. degree

Knowledge / Technical Requirements

• Advanced knowledge of digital signal processing and its applications required
• Knowledge of acoustics required
• Knowledge of audio signal processing required
• Knowledge of closed-loop acoustic control required
• Knowledge of electro-acoustic systems modelling desirable
• Knowledge of hearing aid desirable
• Knowledge of cochlear implant desirable
• Knowledge of psychoacoustics desirable

Competencies, Skills & Abilities

• Proficiency in Matlab, Python, and C/C++ required
• Good verbal and written communication skills required
• Good interpersonal skills are required
• Technical leadership required
• Proficiency in numerical reasoning and analysis required
• Proficiency in troubleshooting required
• Attention to details required
• Background in real-time signal processing desirable
• Background in fixed-point algorithm desirable

Salary and Other Compensation:

The target pay rate for this position is between $124,000 - $189,000 annually. Factors which may affect starting pay within this range may include: geography/market, skills, education, experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.

This position is eligible for a bonus based upon performance results. There is no guarantee of payout.

The following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements, include medical, dental and vision insurance, 401(k) retirement plan with company match, company-paid life and short-term disability insurance, long-term disability insurance, employee assistance plan, hearing aid benefits, Paid Time Off, paid holidays, paid floating holidays, paid volunteer service day, paid paternity and maternity leave and tuition reimbursement.

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