Meta-Optics Computational Imaging Scientist

Leidos LLC; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 108,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

Leidos Defense Space is seeking an Optical Engineer specializing in Computational Imaging to support edge-processing meta-optic systems for next-gen space missions. The role blends optical design, computational imaging, and machine-learning methods in a lab and in the field.

You will model and validate infrared metasystems, develop forward and inverse models, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to mature technologies for space-based sensing and IR imaging applications.

Qualifications

• BS in Physics, Materials Science, Optics, or related field with 8+ years of experience or MS with 6+ years of experience.
• Experience with Fourier optics, wave propagation, diffraction, and coherence theory.
• Familiarity with gradient-based optimization, regularization, or statistical estimation in computational imaging.
• Experience with machine-learning-based reconstruction or inference methods (CNNs).
• Strong Python programming for scientific computing and ML (NumPy, SciPy, PyTorch, JAX, TensorFlow); MATLAB or C++ may apply.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; U.S. Citizenship and ability to obtain Secret clearance.

Responsibilities

• Design, modeling, and experimental validation of infrared meta-optic systems with digital reconstruction and inference algorithms.
• Develop computational imaging models connecting optical design, image formation, detector response, calibration, reconstruction, and inference performance.
• Contribute to simulation tools and algorithms for hybrid optical–digital imaging systems and end-to-end optimization.
• Support design trades and system-level evaluations of image quality, SNR, reconstruction fidelity, and classification performance.
• Collaborate with senior engineers and cross-functional teams; document results for internal R&D and programs.

Skills

Fourier optics

Wave propagation

Diffraction

Coherence theory

Machine learning reconstruction

Python programming

Matlab

C++

Optimization methods

Education

BS in Physics/Materials Science/Optics

MS in related field

Doctorate (optional)

Tools

Zemax OpticStudio

CODE V

FRED

COMSOL

Ansys Lumerical

Job description

Leidos Defense Space is seeking an Optical Engineer specializing in Computational Imaging to support edge-processing meta-optic systems for next-gen space missions. The role blends optical design, computational imaging, and machine-learning methods in a lab and in the field.

You will model and validate infrared metasystems, develop forward and inverse models, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to mature technologies for space-based sensing and IR imaging applications.