Space Autonomy Engineer: Perception & CV

Redwire Corporation; Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 102,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Redwire Space in Chantilly, VA, seeks an Autonomy Engineer, Perception and Computer Vision to shape architecture for next-gen space perception capabilities. You will develop perception tracking, navigation algorithms, flight software, and real-time autonomy for spacecraft and airborne platforms.

The role collaborates with AI&T, GNC, Avionics, and Mission Operations to create hardware-in-the-loop simulations, Monte Carlo testing, and robust test plans across nominal and off-nominal scenarios.

Qualifications

• MS or PhD in Machine Learning, Robotics, Computer Science, or Image Science with a focus on Computer Vision.
• BS in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Extensive hands-on experience developing, optimizing, and benchmarking ML algorithms on large, complex datasets
• Strong proficiency in C++ on Linux-based systems.
• Experience with one or more key perception areas: object detection, object tracking, instance or semantic segmentation, semantic change detection, or natural feature tracking (NFT).
• Background applying methods such as SLAM, multi-view geometry, structure-from-motion, sensor fusion, correlation filters, or uncharacterized reconstruction to space-or air-based systems.
• Familiarity with mission-critical domains such as terminal guidance, rendezvous and docking, orbital mechanics for propulsive spacecraft, or spacecraft/missile GNC.

Responsibilities

• Build, refine, and own core perception libraries and real‑time application software essential to autonomous mission systems.
• Combine classical and geometric computer vision techniques with modern machine learning to deliver robust perception and tracking capabilities.
• Develop and integrate computer vision software and hardware across spacecraft and airborne platforms, partnering closely with AI&T teams to ensure seamless implementation.
• Create software‑defined autonomy approaches that enable spacecraft to maneuver, navigate, and execute mission objectives reliably and intelligently.
• Author and execute test plans to validate perception systems from ground checkout through on‑orbit commissioning and sustained operations.
• Work across engineering disciplines to architect, implement, and verify complex features and system behaviors.
• Translate operator and customer needs into practical, high‑performance features while balancing usability with technical constraints.
• Support aggressive testing timelines, launch windows, and on‑orbit operations that demand precision and resilience.
• Design flight software, firmware, algorithms, and simulation assets that drive onboard autonomy and situational awareness.
• Build autonomy tools that support dynamic space operations, real‑time decision making, and resilient spacecraft behavior.
• Develop, refine, and run test processes that ensure system reliability across nominal and off‑nominal scenarios.
• Define automated fault‑detection logic and system responses that enhance operational safety and robustness.
• Deliver hardware‑in‑the‑loop and Monte Carlo simulation environments to evaluate system performance under realistic mission conditions.

Skills

C++

Object detection

Object tracking

Segmentation

SLAM/SfM

Sensor fusion

GNC concepts

ML foundations

Education

MS/PhD in ML, Robotics, CS, or Image Science

BS in CS, ML, EE, or related field

Tools

Python

Rust

C++

Linux

Job description

Redwire Space in Chantilly, VA, seeks an Autonomy Engineer, Perception and Computer Vision to shape architecture for next-gen space perception capabilities. You will develop perception tracking, navigation algorithms, flight software, and real-time autonomy for spacecraft and airborne platforms.

The role collaborates with AI&T, GNC, Avionics, and Mission Operations to create hardware-in-the-loop simulations, Monte Carlo testing, and robust test plans across nominal and off-nominal scenarios.