Lead Optical Calibration and Validation Engineer Data and Analytics · Espoo · Hybrid

Kuva Space; Espoo; On-site; EUR 60 000 - 80 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading hyperspectral imaging company in Espoo is seeking a Lead Optical Calibration and Validation Engineer to oversee the in-orbit calibration activities for its satellite constellation. The successful candidate will ensure data accuracy and compliance with industry standards while collaborating with cross-functional teams. Required qualifications include a Master's or PhD in a relevant field and 5+ years of experience in calibration techniques. This role offers a stimulating work environment with comprehensive health benefits and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Annual sports, culture, and transport benefit

Comprehensive health care benefits

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in calibration and validation of remote sensing instruments or similar technologies.
• Strong understanding of camera calibration techniques and data validation methodologies.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in a team-oriented environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage calibration and validation processes for Kuva Space data products.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams on product development lifecycle.
• Lead the data quality team to ensure accuracy and reliability of data.

Skills

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Communication

Collaboration

Education

Master’s degree or PhD in Physics, Engineering, or related field

Tools

Python

GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS)

Job description

Lead Optical Calibration and Validation Engineer

Kuva Space is on a mission to solve the world's most pressing issues, such as climate change, food security, safety and security, by building the world's most extensive hyperspectral microsatellite constellation and developing AI-driven analytics services.

We deliver reliable and timely global insights and foresight that transform rich spaceborne data into actionable insights customers can use for efficient resource management, optimizing operations, and improving profitability sustainably.

As an optical Cal/Val Engineer, you will oversee the in-orbit calibration and validation activities for Kuva Space's hyperspectral constellation. This role includes coordination with technical teams and managing data quality priorities.

Are you someone who finds joy in perfect precision and accuracy? We’re looking for a Lead Calibration and Validation Engineer who loves detail as much as we love space. You'll play a key role in ensuring our remote sensing products and data are spot on, supporting Kuva Space's mission to provide high-quality, actionable insights from space.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, implement, and manage comprehensive calibration and validation processes for all Kuva Space data products.
• Develop and maintain calibration and validation toolboxes to support efficient calibration and validation processes.

Coordinate & Collaborate

• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to integrate calibration and validation requirements, procedures and strategies into the product development lifecycle.
• Collaborate with academic institutions, governmental agencies, and international partners to enhance the accuracy and reliability of Kuva Space’s data products.
• Collaborate with the satellite engineering team to contribute to new camera designs and enhancements.

Lead & Oversee

• Lead efforts in establishing and maintaining calibration reference sites, both terrestrial and airborne.
• Oversee and prioritise the activities of the data quality team to ensure data accuracy and reliability.
• Monitor the performance of hyperspectral optical satellite instruments (VNIR-SWIR) and analyse data to identify and resolve calibration issues.

Compliance & Documentation

• Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements related to calibration and validation.
• Maintain detailed calibration and validation documentation.
• Prepare and present detailed reports on calibration and validation activities to internal and external stakeholders, and ensure their timely delivery.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or PhD in Physics, Engineering (optical preferred), Remote Sensing, or a related field.
• Proven experience (5+ years) in calibration and validation of remote sensing instruments or similar technologies.
• Strong understanding of camera radiometric and geometric calibration techniques and data validation methodologies. Spectral calibration is a bonus.
• Strong understanding of metrological approaches to calibration and validation in remote sensing.
• Proficiency with relevant software tools and programming languages, mainly Python, but also Java, C, or IDL.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to accuracy.
• Demonstrated leadership experience and the ability to guide and develop a high-performing team.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a multifaceted, international environment.
• Experience with GIS software and libraries (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS, GDAL).
• Ability to make quick decisions and work sustainably in a busy environment
• You share the company mission of improving life on Earth through daily, space-borne hyperspectral imaging and AI!

Bonus points for

• Experience in the design of optical systems
• Experience with imaging spectro-radiometers
• Experience in on-board calibration techniques
• Experience using calibration networks, such as RADCALNET or HYPERNETS
• A track record of published research or technical reports in the field of calibration and validation is advantageous.

What do we offer?

At Kuva Space, we offer a stimulating and safe work environment that encourages growth, collaboration, and excellence. Constantly learning new things is the norm here! Our focus on space technology means you'll have the opportunity to learn more about satellites, space, data, and the Earth.

As an employer, we prioritize the well-being of our employees, both physically and mentally. We offer an annual sports, culture and transport benefit. Our health care benefits are comprehensive, including dental benefits and short-term psychotherapy.

In addition, you will be part of a dynamic, fun, and highly skilled team! Our diverse team of international colleagues, with varying cultures, shares a passion for deep tech and making our Earth more sustainable.

The application period will close 13.10.2025. After this all applications will be reviewed and you will receive information on our decision regarding your application.