Electro-Optical Systems Engineer

Voyager Technologies; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 135,000 - 185,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

401(k) matching

Wellness programs

Gym memberships

Job summary

Voyager Technology Systems seeks a seasoned imaging/EO systems engineer to characterize image sensors and FPAs, develop data pipelines, and drive test plans for high‑performance optical sensors. You will perform radiometric analyses, design test hardware, and validate algorithms in a hands‑on optics lab environment.

The role emphasizes cross‑functional collaboration, rigorous verification, and readiness to work in a dynamic defense/space setting.

Qualifications

• Degree in Physics, Optical, Electrical, or Aerospace Engineering or related STEM field and minimum 6 years of prior relevant experience, or an Advanced Degree with minimum 4 years
• Experience in imaging/sensing/electro-optical systems development, characterization, or testing
• Proficiency in Python for test automation, instrument control, data reduction, and analysis
• Hands-on experience characterizing image sensors or focal plane arrays and interpreting detector performance data
• Knowledge of radiometry, detector physics, and noise/SNR analysis
• Experience developing test plans and procedures for high-performance optical sensors
• Familiarity with lab test equipment and optical sources for sensor calibration and characterization
• Familiarity with camera electronics and sensor data interfaces
• Willingness to work hands-on in optics lab and cleanroom
• Self-directed and able to operate in dynamic environments

Responsibilities

• Characterize image sensors and focal plane arrays, including CMOS/CCDs and infrared FPAs
• Develop image and data analysis pipelines; automate test execution and data reduction
• Analyze EO system performance (SNR, budgets) and radiometric/photometric data
• Design and fabricate test hardware (star stimulators, collimators) for validation of algorithms
• Develop sensor characterization test setups with integrating spheres, monochromators, etc.
• Define/maintain EO interfaces and verification plans
• Develop test plans and procedures; support qualification and acceptance testing of high-performance optical sensors
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and customers to ensure requirements are met

Skills

Python for test automation

Sensor characterization

Data analysis

Camera electronics familiarity

Hands-on in optics lab

Self-directed

Education

Physics or Optical/Electrical/Aerospace Eng degree

Advanced degree (MS/PhD)

Tools

Zemax

FRED

Job description

Voyager Technology Systems is an innovative defense, national security, and space technology company committed to advancing and delivering transformative, mission-critical solutions. We tackle the most complex challenges to unlock new frontiers for human progress, fortify national security, and protect critical assets to lead in the race for technological and operational superiority from ground to space.

Essential Functions

• Image sensor and focal plane array characterization, including CMOS/CCDs and infrared FPAs
• Photon transfer curve analysis and detector noise modeling
• Develop image and data analysis pipelines, automate test execution, and perform data reduction (using Python)
• EO system performance analysis, including signal-to-noise and detector performance budgets
• Design and fabricate test hardware, including star stimulators and collimator sources, to validate star-tracking and pointing algorithms
• Develop and execute sensor characterization test setups using integrating spheres, monochromators, collimators, and blackbody sources
• Perform radiometric and photometric analysis
• EO requirement decomposition, allocation, and verification planning
• Define and maintain EO interfaces and interface control documents
• Development of test plans and procedures
• Support qualification and acceptance testing of high-performance optical sensors

Education, Skills, & Experience

• Degree in Physics, Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related STEM field and minimum 6 years of prior relevant experience, or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 4 years of experience
• Industry experience developing, characterizing, or testing imaging, sensing, or electro-optical systems
• Proficiency in Python for test automation, instrument control, data reduction, and analysis
• Hands‑on experience characterizing image sensors or focal plane arrays and interpreting detector performance data
• Working knowledge of radiometry, detector physics, and noise/SNR analysis
• Experience developing and executing test plans and procedures for high-performance optical sensors
• Experience with laboratory test equipment and optical sources used for sensor calibration and characterization
• Familiarity with camera electronics and sensor data interfaces
• Willingness to work hands‑on in an optics lab and cleanroom environment
• Self-directed person with ability to handle a dynamic work environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience with space or other high‑reliability environment
• Familiarity with star tracker architectures and camera calibration models
• Experience supporting the transition from prototype to high‑rate production
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a team‑oriented environment as well as an individual contributor
• Proficient presentation skills and the ability to work with customers and technicians
• Demonstrated ability to resolve complex technical issues within cross‑functional teams
• Proven track record working with evolving customer requirements
• Experience with infrared (SWIR/MWIR/LWIR) or hyperspectral sensing
• Familiarity with radiation effects testing and sensor degradation in space environments
• Familiarity with optical design and analysis tools (e.g., Zemax, FRED)

Security Clearance Requirements

• Must be a US person.

ATTITUDE & ATTRIBUTES

• Curious, detail‑oriented, and analytical with a proven ability to learn quickly
• Honest, respectful, and Patient
• Ability and willingness to make an impact
• Demonstrated initiative, drive, and interpersonal skills
• Thrives in a dynamic and fast‑paced environment

The good faith base salary range for this role is $135,000 - $185,000 at the time of this posting. Where you fall within the range depends on your experience, skills, and location.

This range reflects base salary only and does not include benefits or bonus/incentive. This range may be adjusted in the future. Voyager offers a highly competitive total compensation package designed to support the well‑being, growth, and success of our employees. Employees benefit from a flexible and comprehensive rewards program that supports both professional and personal well‑being.

• Flexible Time Off (FTO), empowering employees to take the time they need to recharge and maintain a healthy work‑life balance
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their families, with a significant portion of premiums covered by the company and many benefits paid at 100% for employees
• Flexible, affordable gym memberships with 12,700+ options nationwide, including 24 Hour Fitness, EoS Fitness, Crunch Fitness, Anytime Fitness, Blink Fitness, Chuze Fitness, and more! No long‑term contracts and FREE on‑demand workout videos before you enroll
• 401(k) retirement plan with a 50% company match on contributions up to 8%, supporting long‑term financial security
• Company wellness programs that support physical and mental well‑being
• Additional voluntary benefits and employee support resources
• The opportunity to work alongside a highly talented team in an innovative, mission‑driven environment

Voyager is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) (22 CFR Parts 120–130) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) (15 CFR Parts 730–774), applicants for this position must be a U.S. Person: a US Citizen, a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., or a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C.

• 1324b(a)(3). Applicants must be eligible to obtain any required export authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Commerce. Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran

The statements contained in this job description are intended to describe the general content and requirements for performance of this job. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties, responsibilities, and requirements. This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter the scope of work within the framework of this job description at any time without prior notice.