Meta-Optics Computational Imaging Scientist (Space)

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

Job summary

Leidos Defense Space seeks an Optical Engineer specializing in Computational Imaging to advance meta-optic-enabled imaging for edge processing on next-generation space missions. You will design, model, and validate infrared meta-optic systems, integrating hardware with reconstruction and inference algorithms.

In this role you’ll develop simulation tools, evaluate image quality and classification performance, and collaborate with senior engineers across cross-functional teams.

Qualifications

• BS or MS in Physics, Optics, or related field with relevant experience.
• Experience in computational imaging or closely related field.
• Familiarity with optical design and image reconstruction methods.

Responsibilities

• Support design, modeling, and experimental validation of infrared meta-optic systems.
• Develop computational imaging models linking optical design, image formation, and inference performance.
• Contribute to simulation tools for hybrid optical-digital imaging systems and end-to-end optimization.

Skills

Fourier optics

Wave propagation

Diffraction

Coherence theory

Optimization methods

ML-based reconstruction

CNNs

Python programming

NumPy

Security clearance

Education

BS in Physics/Optics

MS in related field

Tools

Zemax

CODE V

FRED

COMSOL

Ansys Lumerical

MATLAB

C++

Job description

Leidos Defense Space seeks an Optical Engineer specializing in Computational Imaging to advance meta-optic-enabled imaging for edge processing on next-generation space missions. You will design, model, and validate infrared meta-optic systems, integrating hardware with reconstruction and inference algorithms.

In this role you’ll develop simulation tools, evaluate image quality and classification performance, and collaborate with senior engineers across cross-functional teams.