Electro-Optic and Infrared (EO/IR) Systems Engineer

Applied Research Laboratory at the Penn State University; Freeport (PA); On-site; USD 161,004 - 265,704; Full time

Job summary

Applied Research Laboratory at the Penn State University in Freeport, PA, is seeking a Principal EO/IR Systems Engineer to lead imaging system research within the Sensors, Signals, and Software Department. This on-site role informs next-generation DoD architectures through physics-based modeling, prototyping, and rigorous testing.

You will drive system-level trade studies, oversee camera selection across VIS to LWIR bands, and mentor engineers while coordinating with sponsors and end-users to

Qualifications

• Past success with design, analysis, procurement, assembly and test of complete EO/IR imaging systems for military applications.

Responsibilities

• Lead system-level trade studies to develop architectures and allocate system-level requirements across subsystems.
• Direct imaging system testing (lab, environmental, field) and author test plans.
• Interface with sponsors, customers, and end-users to understand problems and communicate results.
• Oversee camera selection and evaluation across VIS-SWIR-MWIR-LWIR bands.
• Mentor staff scientists, engineers, and technicians on imaging system projects.
• Plan and direct research projects with substantial impact on current or future products.

Skills

EO/IR imaging

Systems engineering

Modeling & simulations

Vendor management

Project leadership

Test planning

Team mentorship

Requirements allocation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Science

Tools

LabVIEW

MATLAB

Python

OpenCV

SOLIDWORKS

Job description

We are seeking a Principal Electro-Optic and Infrared (EO/IR) Systems Engineer to join our Sensors, Signals, and Software Department in the Electro-Optics and Electronics division located in Freeport PA. This department supports DoD acquisitions through electro-optics, electronics, and software trade space definition, exploration, and reduction to inform next generation DoD architectures and capabilities. This spans research in the form of modeling, extensive prototyping, and both functional and environmental test.

You Will:

• Take on challenges where the path the research may take is not clear, and the outcome is not known or guaranteed
• Be part of the team leadership that operates in this ambiguous space and develops the executable plan for the rest of the team
• Perform physics-based modeling to predict the performance of imaging system concepts and designs, such as through the use of the Night Vision Integrated Performance Model (NV-IPM) and MODTRAN. Execution of these analyses are supported by a deep understanding of the underlying environmental, atmospheric, optics, imager, and human components that the model represents
• Experience within an organization responsible for manufacturing EO/IR systems
• Drive system level trade studies to develop architectures and allocate system level requirements across subsystems and engineering disciplines
• Be heavily involved in camera selection and evaluation covering the full spectrum of visible, shortwave (SWIR), midwave (MWIR), and longwave (LWIR) infrared
• Lead a team on all aspects of system test (lab, environmental, and field testing) including authoring test plans, identification of the appropriate test equipment, and execution of the tests themselves
• Leverage prior first‑hand experience with building and testing imaging systems to help the team avoid the traditional pitfalls in imaging designs and instead focus that energy towards the high‑risk research components
• Routinely interface with sponsors, customers, and end‑users to understand their problems, brainstorm solutions, scope research, communicate the technical aspects of research execution, and convey the significance of results.
• Track the latest developments in imaging cameras, physics‑based modeling, and imaging improvement / enhancement techniques and advise on how and when to integrate them into on‑going and future research opportunities
• Devise, plan, and lead projects solving extremely complex problems that impact the design success of current products or address broad design issues of future products or technologies
• Coordinate research and development activities between disciplines involving exploration of subject area, definition of scope and selection of problems for investigation, and development of novel concepts and approaches
• Plan and direct research projects that have substantial impact that extends knowledge and understanding; plan, organize, mentor and advise the work of staff scientists, engineers and technicians
• Provide input to the strategic direction of the division’s research pursuits by helping to establish the appropriate core competencies and evaluating where our capabilities best align with a sponsor’s needs
• Perform project planning, budgeting, and scheduling
• Manage vendors and suppliers, from purchase orders through statements of work
• Lead other engineers in day‑to‑day tasking to satisfy stakeholder’s requirements and expectations
• Provide technical leadership within the department for imaging and EO/IR programs and initiatives
• Independently manage multiple and/or large electro‑optic projects
• Develop and propose solutions for new applications
• Perform the role of Trusted Agent to the government to assess and validate state‑of‑the‑art imaging systems and solutions from the Defense Industrial Base
• Propose and lead new initiatives, guide programs of national or international significance, identify future problems, research trends and opportunities, and direct and/or participate in major proposal preparation and presentation

Required skills and experience include:

• Past success with the design, analysis, procurement, assembly and test of complete electro‑optic and infrared (EO/IR) imaging systems for military applications
• Infrared imaging system experience is a must
• Radiometry (analysis and laboratory measurements), development of link budgets, prediction of sensor response, and image quality metrics
• Software tools for instrument control, data analysis, and image processing (LabVIEW, MATLAB, ImageJ, Python, Open CV, etc.)
• Real‑time image processing
• Laser Range Finders, LiDAR, and other laser systems
• Specification and use of optical components such as dichroic filters, polarizers, beam splitters, lasers, fast steering mirrors, and shutters
• Proficient in a discipline core to the design and development of imaging systems prior to transitioning to a system role
• Operating as a systems engineer for imaging systems
• Knowledge of various focal plane arrays types, imaging sensors, camera specifications, and video interfaces
• Past success with visible and infrared imaging system design and characterization
• Strong knowledge of electro‑optical assembly methods including tolerancing and alignments
• Good working knowledge of physics, electro‑mechanical devices and imaging sensors
• Familiarity with lab instrumentation and tools such as oscilloscopes, integrating spheres, spectroradiometers, interferometers, light sources, motion stages

Preferred skills and experience include:

• Skills in the use of requirements management tools such as DOORS or Jama
• Experience with statistical analysis tools and methods to establish measurement uncertainty
• Familiarity with opto‑mechanical design techniques leveraging mechanical design tools such as SOLIDWORKS
• Familiarity with sensors for the measurement of physical properties (IMUs, ultrasonic, proximity, photoelectric, temperature, etc.) and signal conditioning methods
• Knowledge of machine vision algorithms and image processing techniques
• Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if required

This position will be located fully on‑site located in Freeport, PA.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
19+ years of relevant experience
Required Certifications:None

ARL’s purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC). FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our website at www.arl.psu.edu

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL):Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $161,004.00 - $265,704.00.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees designed to support both personal and professional well‑being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.