Approach Venture · 6 hours ago
Perception Engineer (Space & Defense Tech)
El Segundo, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Mid, Senior Level
$120K/yr - $180K/yrApproach Venture is a cutting-edge startup focused on developing the next generation of space-based defense technology. They are seeking a dynamic Perception & Sensing Engineer to lead the integration and development of advanced sensing systems crucial to autonomous orbital interceptors, ensuring accurate navigation in complex environments.
Management Consulting
Hiring Manager
Torey Bell
Responsibilities
Integrate sensor modules into sophisticated avionics systems
Oversee the selection, calibration, and integration of sensors, including FOV analysis and lensing
Construct high-reliability camera interfaces using SPI/I2C, MIPI, USB3, Ethernet, or custom buses
Develop and implement perception pipelines for ultra-low latency object tracking
Design and execute algorithms for target detection, filtering, and motion compensation
Fuse data from IR/EO sensors with IMU, GPS, and other onboard estimators
Collaborate with controls engineers to create perception-to-guidance interfaces for closed-loop systems
Engineer verification and validation tests using high-G mounts and simulated environments
Qualification
Required
B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Robotics, or related field
Extensive experience with IR/EO camera systems, radar, and imaging physics
Proficient in computer vision with tools like OpenCV, NumPy, and SciPy
Proven track record with real-time detection and tracking algorithm implementation
Knowledgeable in signal processing, filtering, sensor fusion, and coordinate transforms
Hands-on experience with thermal cameras, radar, and optical equipment
Preferred
Familiarity with LWIR sensors or radar units
Background in high-speed robotics or autonomous systems
Experience with GPU acceleration, embedded systems, or FPGA-based vision
Insight into optical modeling, lens design, and radiometry
Understanding of IR scene modeling and synthetic target generation
Experience in high-dynamic-range thermal environments or high-G mount design
Familiarity with defense or aerospace sensor standards
Benefits
Employer covers 100% of your benefits
Early-stage equity in a pioneering space defense startup
Opportunity for full product ownership over propulsion systems
Founding engineering role with significant influence
Engage in impactful work at the intersection of space and national security
Collaborate with a team led by a technical founder with experience at leading aerospace companies
Be part of a mission-critical effort to protect millions
Company
Approach Venture
Enabling founding teams building the future of frontier technology to achieve their full potential.
Founded in 2021
2-10 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageLeadership Team
Bryce Dabbs
Founder & CEO
Tristan Cembrinski
Partner
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