Optical Scientist, Space EO/IR Payloads

General Atomics; Acton (MA); On-site; USD 128,130 - 229,358; Full time

Job summary

General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) seeks an Optical Scientist for Space EO/IR Payload efforts in Acton, MA.

You will develop optical analyses, radiometry, and tracking algorithms for space payload programs and IRAD, spanning concept development, architecture, interface requirements, testing, production support, and on-orbit operations.

Qualifications

• Requires twelve+ years experience with a Bachelors degree, ten+ years with a Masters, or seven+ years with a PhD in a scientific/technical role.
• Experience leading design, performance analysis, assembly, test, and operation of EO/IR space payloads.
• Experience with real-time capture and image processing for electro-optical imaging systems.
• Knowledge of optical analysis tools and the ability to model complex systems.
• Ability to present results and communicate with customers and senior management.
• Ability to obtain and maintain Top Secret and/or SCI clearance.

Responsibilities

• Apply electro-optical and infrared system knowledge to develop models and analyses for optical performance.
• Create models to evaluate algorithms for tracking and detection in optical systems.
• Support payload concept and system architecture development, requirements, and simulations.
• Collaborate with senior scientists and optical engineers to develop content and review work.

Skills

EO/IR payload experience

Optical system modeling

Image processing

Customer communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in a scientific or related technical field

Master's degree in a scientific or related technical field

PhD in a scientific or related technical field

Job description

Job Summary General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) designs and manufactures first‑of‑a‑kind electromagnetic and electric power generation systems. GA‑EMS' expanding portfolio of specialized products and integrated system solutions support critical fleet, space systems and satellites, missile defense, power and energy, and process and monitoring applications for defense, industrial, and commercial customers worldwide.

General Atomics is looking for an Optical Scientist for Space EO/IR Payload efforts within our Optical Sensor System Group in Acton, MA. The Optical Scientist is responsible for developing optical analyses, including radiometry and tracking algorithms for space payload programs and IRAD. This includes all phases of development from pre‑award concept development, initial architecture and development of interfaces and component requirements through design, testing and verification, production support, and on‑orbit operations.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Application of electro‑optical and infrared remote sensing system knowledge to develop models and analyses for optical system performance.
• Produce models to evaluate the performance of algorithms related to optical systems, including tracking and detection.
• Support payload concept development, system architecture development, system and subsystem requirements development, systems analysis and trade studies, and systems modeling and simulation.
• Work with other senior scientists and optical engineers to develop design content and review work by others.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Qualifications

• Typically requires a Bachelors degree, Masters degree or PhD in a scientific or related technical field and progressively complex scientific experience as follows; twelve or more years experience with a Bachelors degree, ten or more years experience with a Masters degree, and seven or more with a PhD. Equivalent scientific experience may be substituted in lieu of education.
• Experience leading the design, performance analysis, assembly, test, and operation of EO/IR space payloads.
• Experience with real‑time capture and image processing associated with electro‑optical imaging systems.
• Knowledge of optical analysis tools and the ability to model complex systems.
• Able to present results and communicate with customers and senior management.
• Ability to Obtain and maintain a Top Secret and/or SCI Clearance.

Job Type: Full‑Time Salary

Salary range: 128,130 - 229,358