Senior Systems Engineer, EO/IR Payloads

Role overview

A senior systems engineering position focused on early-stage exploration of electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) payload concepts for next-generation small-satellite remote sensing missions. The role sits at the intersection of applied science, payload engineering, product, and business development, shaping novel imaging modes, use cases, and proof-of-concept efforts that influence R&D roadmaps well before formal development begins.

Responsibilities

- Conceptualize, analyze, and experiment with new EO/IR payload architectures, imaging modes, and operational use cases for defense, intelligence, philanthropic, and commercial customers. - Derive system and payload requirements, then build simulations, models, and detailed analyses to evaluate feasibility of early-stage concepts. - Lead or support R&D activities and proposals as a Principal Investigator, articulating differentiation through white papers, concept studies, and technical briefs. - Partner with applied science and product groups to translate promising ideas into rigorous, demonstrable technical architectures. - Perform trade studies, radiometric analyses, and budget evaluations for unconventional applications prior to traditional development phases. - Contribute to customer discovery, capability demonstrations, and proposal generation with deep EO/IR systems engineering expertise.

Requirements

- BS, MS, or PhD in engineering, physics, optical sciences, or equivalent experience. - 5+ years as a systems or instrument engineer with deep EO/IR payload domain knowledge. - Background in infrared, multispectral, hyperspectral, or related remote sensing phenomenologies. - Familiarity with traditional systems engineering: requirements, modeling/simulation, and technical analysis. - Proficiency in Python, Julia, MATLAB, or similar for modeling, simulation, and data analysis. - Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills; ability to travel roughly 25-30%. - Eligibility to obtain a TS/SCI security clearance is required; active clearance strongly preferred.

Nice to have

- Familiarity with early-stage business development, strategic capture, or customer discovery. - Hands-on experience with radiometric models, scene simulations, rapid prototyping, or experimental payload demonstrations. - Understanding of small-satellite remote sensing architectures.

Benefits and work setup

- Salary range $138,000–$195,000 plus equity and a comprehensive benefits package. - Medical, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k); short- and long-term disability; life insurance. - Three weeks paid vacation, 12 paid holidays, unlimited sick time, and paid parental leave. - On-site work at a Silicon Valley facility optimized for spacecraft manufacturing and payload integration. - U.S. export-control restrictions apply; candidates must meet ITAR/EAR eligibility.