Optical Scientist, Space EO/IR Payloads
Acton, Massachusetts
Overview
General Atomics pioneers technologies with the potential to change the world. Behind a talented global team of engineers, GA delivers safe, sustainable, and economical solutions to meet growing global demands. Our Engineers have an opportunity to work on first of a kind product lines within an incredible, dynamic environment.
Engineering positions typically require a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience. Candidates from mechanical, electrical, and aerospace engineering backgrounds must know the fundamentals of engineering system developments, requirements, testing, and integration before getting to the final stages of customer interface and project management.
Schedule: Full-Time Salary
Job Level: Senior (8+ years)
Travel: 0 - 25
Success Profile
What makes a successful Optical Scientist, Space EO/IR Payloads at General Atomics? Check out the top traits we’re looking for and see if you have the right mix.
- Analytical
- Collaborative
- Inventive
- Problem Solver
- Team Player
- Creative
Job Summary General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) designs and manufactures first-of-a-kind electromagnetic and electric power generation systems. GA-EMS' expanding portfolio of specialized products and integrated system solutions support critical fleet, space systems and satellites, missile defense, power and energy, and process and monitoring applications for defense, industrial, and commercial customers worldwide
General Atomics is looking for an Optical Scientist for Space EO/IR Payload efforts within our Optical Sensor System Group in Acton, MA. The Optical Scientist is responsible for developing optical analyses, including radiometry and tracking algorithms for space payload programs and IRAD. This includes all phases of development from pre-award concept development, initial architecture and development of interfaces and component requirements through design, testing and verification, production support, and on orbit operations
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Application of electro-optical and infrared remote sensing system knowledge to develop models and analyses for optical system performance
- Produce models to evaluate the performance of algorithms related to optical systems, including tracking and detection
- Support payload concept development, system architecture development, system and subsystem requirements development, systems analysis and trade studies, and systems modeling and simulation
- Work with other senior scientists and optical engineers to develop design content and review work by others.
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications:
- Typically requires a Bachelors degree, Masters degree or PhD in a scientific or related technical field and progressively complex scientific experience as follows; nine or more years experience with a Bachelors degree, seven or more years experience with a Masters degree, and four or more with a PhD. Equivalent scientific experience may be substituted in lieu of education.
- Experience leading the design, performance analysis, assembly, test, and operation of EO/IR space payloads.
- Experience with real-time capture and image processing associated with electro-optical imaging systems
- Knowledge of optical analysis tools and the ability to model complex systems
- Able to present results and communicate with customers and senior management
- Ability to Obtain and maintain a Top Secret and/or SCI Clearance.
Salary:$116,480 - $208,505
Benefits
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Healthcare
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Pension, 401(k)/Retirement Plans
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Competitive Pay
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Multiple product lines means a variety of work
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Paid Time Off

“The company is growing, has a very good reputation and had open positions in my area of expertise (aircraft design/design methodology development).”– Peter, Senior Staff Engineer

“We don't ascribe to quotas; we do ascribe to securing the BEST talent to enrich our culture toward healthy diversification and active/viable community service. We are STEM advocates.”– Debra, CSSBB: Staff Engineer

“Every day is different, with different problems to solve and many programs to support. I am a problem solver and have always been motivated by the tough questions.”– Scott, Laser Scientist

“I work in the Components Engineering and Obsolescence Management Dept. Our efforts are saving General Atomics several millions of dollars by proactively leading and informing the company of all these decisions which significantly impact production, sustainment and new designs.”– John, Staff Engineer
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