We've been engaged by a fast-growing space situational awareness company to find an experienced Systems Engineer to lead the definition of active EO/IR system architectures from concept through flight test. Our client is building sophisticated space-based sensing systems that deliver actionable orbital intelligence.
This is a rare opportunity to join early, help shape engineering culture, and take real ownership over payload systems that go to orbit.
The Role:
- Define EO payload system architectures via detailed trade studies
- Model sensor performance and derive system requirements
- Own prototype sensor development in a lab environment
- Perform hands-on radiometric/geometric characterization and calibration of flight hardware (collimators, integrating spheres, interferometers, laser trackers, etc.)
- Author Interface Control Documents (electrical, mechanical, thermal, optical)
- Define on-orbit calibration sequences and support real-time operations
- Lead small engineering teams from concept through delivery
What Our Client is Looking For:
- BS+ in engineering or a hard science
- Proven experience taking systems from concept through test and delivery
- Strong foundation in optical test methods, grounded in the underlying physics
- Experience with radiometry, MTF/PSF, boresight alignment, non-uniformity correction, and related payload analyses
- Proficiency in MATLAB/Python; familiarity with MODTRAN, SPIRITS, or AFSIM a plus
- Willingness to travel to test sites as needed
- Must be able to obtain and hold a U.S. security clearance
Bonus Points:
- Laser systems / beam-steering experience
- Electro-mechanical control systems
- LiDAR/Radar signal processing on embedded platforms (FPGA/MCU)
- Optical modeling in Zemax or Code V
Our client offers a competitive salary, benefits, and equity package, along with the chance to make a lasting mark on a mission-driven engineering team.
Lead Systems Engineer in denver at Unknown Company
This position is listed as full time and onsite.