Lead Systems Engineer

EVONA; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

EVONA is seeking an experienced Systems Engineer to lead the definition of active EO/IR system architectures from concept through flight test for a space-based sensing program. You will help shape engineering culture and own payload systems that go to orbit.

Responsibilities include modeling sensor performance, calibration of flight hardware, authoring Interface Control Documents, and leading small teams from concept through delivery while traveling to test sites and pursuing a U.S.

Qualifications

• BS+ in engineering or a hard science.
• Experience taking systems from concept through test and delivery.
• Strong foundation in optical test methods and physics.
• Experience with radiometry, MTF/PSF, boresight alignment, non-uniformity correction.
• Proficiency in MATLAB/Python; familiarity with MODTRAN, SPIRITS, or AFSIM is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Define EO payload system architectures via detailed trade studies.
• Model sensor performance and derive system requirements.
• Calibrate flight hardware (colлиmators, integrating spheres, interferometers, laser trackers, etc.).
• Author Interface Control Documents (electrical, mechanical, thermal, optical).
• Define on-orbit calibration sequences and support real-time operations.
• Lead small engineering teams from concept through delivery.

Skills

Systems engineering

Optical testing

MATLAB

Python

Travel flexibility

Education

BS in engineering or hard science

Tools

MODTRAN

SPIRITS

AFSIM

Zemax

Job description

We've been engaged by a fast-growing space situational awareness company to find an experienced Systems Engineer to lead the definition of active EO/IR system architectures from concept through flight test. Our client is building sophisticated space-based sensing systems that deliver actionable orbital intelligence.

This is a rare opportunity to join early, help shape engineering culture, and take real ownership over payload systems that go to orbit.

The Role:

• Define EO payload system architectures via detailed trade studies
• Model sensor performance and derive system requirements
• Perform hands‑on radiometric/geometric characterization and calibration of flight hardware (collimators, integrating spheres, interferometers, laser trackers, etc.)
• Author Interface Control Documents (electrical, mechanical, thermal, optical)
• Define on‑orbit calibration sequences and support real‑time operations
• Lead small engineering teams from concept through delivery

What Our Client is Looking For:

• BS+ in engineering or a hard science
• Proven experience taking systems from concept through test and delivery
• Strong foundation in optical test methods, grounded in the underlying physics
• Experience with radiometry, MTF/PSF, boresight alignment, non‑uniformity correction, and related payload analyses
• Proficiency in MATLAB/Python; familiarity with MODTRAN, SPIRITS, or AFSIM a plus
• Willingness to travel to test sites as needed
• Must be able to obtain and hold a U.S. security clearance

Bonus Points:

• Laser systems / beam‑steering experience
• Electro‑mechanical control systems
• LiDAR/Radar signal processing on embedded platforms (FPGA/MCU)
• Optical modeling in Zemax or Code V

Our client offers a competitive salary, benefits, and equity package, along with the chance to make a lasting mark on a mission‑driven engineering team.