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Quantum Space · 1 month ago

Optical Sensor Systems Engineer

Rockville, Maryland, United States

Full-time

Onsite

Mid, Senior Level

$100K/yr - $165K/yr

5+ years exp

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and autonomy in cislunar and geostationary space. We are seeking an Optical Sensor Systems Engineer to lead the selection, analysis, integration, and validation of optical sensing payloads for Space Domain Awareness and Rendezvous & Proximity Operations. This role involves system definition, algorithm design, performance evaluation, and on-orbit support.

Aerospace

No H1B

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Define and maintain system-level performance requirements for optical sensor payloads

Lead trade studies for sensor selection, including Focal Plane Array (FPA) technology and optical component configuration, to meet mission requirements

Design, develop, and implement high-performance tracking and detection algorithms for both resolved and unresolved RSOs in optical imagery

Develop detailed radiometric and optical models (e.g., SNR, sensitivity, noise) to predict sensor performance

Review and analyze test telemetry and data to verify system functionality and performance against requirements

Develop and execute comprehensive test plans and detailed procedures for system-level performance, functional, and environmental testing

Support hands-on sensor testing and characterization

Provide support for launch campaigns, on-orbit commissioning, calibration, and long-term operations, including addressing sensor-related anomalies

Actively troubleshoot hardware and software issues during development and testing, and lead root cause analysis efforts to resolve system anomalies

Interface with design, subsystem, and systems engineering teams to ensure optimal sensor integration and system-level performance

Qualification

Optical sensor systemsAlgorithm developmentDigital image processingOptical performance modelingPythonSensor testingCommunication skillsC/C++Lidar systemsZEMAXSTKConfiguration management

Required

Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or a closely related technical discipline

Minimum of 5-8 years of experience in the design, development, evaluation, and/or operation of spacecraft optical sensor systems

Expert knowledge of passive optical sensors for Space Domain Awareness (SDA) and RSO detection

Proven proficiency in Python for algorithm development, data analysis, and scripting

Strong background in digital image processing and the design of algorithms for target detection and tracking

Demonstrated experience in optical performance modeling, including radiometric analysis and noise budgeting

Experience in sensor testing and characterization, including data acquisition systems (DAQ) and the ability to interpret and validate test results

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to create clear and concise procedures and reports

To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State