Computer Vision Engineer II

NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 122,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Dental and vision plans

Retirement plans

Paid time off

Flexible schedule

Parental leave

Rideshare

Childcare assistance

Learning opportunities

Job summary

NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena seeks a Computer Vision Engineer to join the Navigation and Mapping group. You will implement image-based mapping and navigation, adapting CV techniques for map-relative localization, hazard detection, and 3D structure recovery, delivering mission-ready code with high rigor.

The role supports upcoming Mars and Moon missions within the Mechanical and Control Systems Division, requiring independent work with limited supervision.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with 3+ years experience (Master's 1+ year, Ph.D. also acceptable).
• Strong software skills in C++ and Python.

Responsibilities

• Implement capabilities in image-based mapping and navigation.
• Adapt standard CV solutions to problem-specific requirements and design novel solutions where needed.
• Deliver code and products with direct mission impact and high rigor.

Skills

C++

Python

Robotics navigation

Image processing

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Aerospace, Physics or related field

Master's degree in related field

Ph.D. in related field

Job description

Job Details

New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That’s our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers—literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission—your opportunity—is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you’re driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for JPL.

Job Details

New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That’s our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers—literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission—your opportunity—is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you’re driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for JPL.
Located in Pasadena, California, JPL has a campus-like environment situated on 177 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and offers a work environment unlike any other: we inspire passion, foster innovation, build collaboration, and reward excellence.
Wanted: Computer Vision (CV) Engineer to join the Navigation and Mapping group in the Guidance and Control Section.
This unique opportunity is part of the Mechanical and Control Systems Division, which is responsible for technology development, advanced concepts, design, development, delivery, integration and test, verification and validation, and operation of complex Mechanical, Thermal, Propulsion, Robotics, and Guidance and Control (G&C) systems.
As a member of the Navigation and Mapping group, you will implement capabilities in image-based mapping and navigation. You will use your knowledge of CV to implement solutions to problems in areas including map-relative localization, hazard detection/avoidance, 3D structure recovery. You will be expected to adapt standard solutions to problem-specific requirements as needed and, where appropriate, you will also be called on to design and implement novel solutions to never-before encountered problems. Your work will directly impact JPL’s terrestrial, lunar, Mars-centric and outer planets missions. You will deliver code and products with direct mission impact, requiring a high level of rigor.

Primary Focus:

• Upcoming missions focused on Mars and Moon landings, both robotic and human

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Aerospace, Physics or a related field with a minimum of 3 years of experience, a Master's degree with a minimum of 1 year of experience, or a Ph.D.
• Thorough familiarity with principles, theories, concepts, and techniques in Computer Vision with emphasis on image processing, geometry, or photogrammetry
• Experience with estimation techniques for robotic navigation.
• Very strong software skills in C++ and Python.
• Hands on experience with sensors used for surface relative navigation, including inertial measurements units, cameras and lidars.
• Track record of working independently with periodic guidance

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience with Machine Learning applied to CV problems.
• Background in control theory and space mission design.
• Experience with participating in multidisciplinary teams.
• Good publication record in relevant research areas.
• Strong presentation skills.

JPL has a catalog of benefits and perks that span from the traditional to the unique. This includes a variety of health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans, paid time off, learning, rideshare, childcare, flexible schedule, parental leave and many more. Our focus is on work-life balance, and living healthy, fulfilling lives as we Dare Mighty Things Together. For benefits eligible positions, benefits are effective the first day of the month coincident with or immediately following the employee’s start date.

The hiring range displayed below is specifically for those who will work in or reside in the location listed. In extending an offer, Jet Propulsion Laboratory considers factors including, but not limited to, the candidate’s job related skills, experience, knowledge, and relevant education/training.
The typical full time equivalent annual hiring range for this job in Pasadena, California.
$122,408 - $150,384

JPL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, protected military or veteran status or any other characteristic or condition protected by Federal, state or local law.
In addition, JPL is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.
EEO is the Law.
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Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a federal facility. Due to rules imposed by NASA, JPL will not accept applications from citizens of designated countries or those born in a designated country unless they are U.S. Citizens, Legal Permanent Residents of the U.S or have other protected status under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). The Designated Countries List is available here.