Computer Vision Engineer III

New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That’s our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers—literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission—your opportunity—is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you’re driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for JPL.

Located in Pasadena, California, JPL has a campus-like environment situated on 177 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and offers a work environment unlike any other: we inspire passion, foster innovation, build collaboration, and reward excellence.

Wanted: Computer Vision (CV) and Machine Learning (ML) Engineer to join the Navigation and Mapping group in the Guidance and Control Section.
  

This unique opportunity is part of the Mechanical Control Systems Division, which is responsible for technology development, advanced concepts, design, development, delivery, integration and test, verification and validation, and operation of complex Mechanical, Thermal, Propulsion, Robotics, and Guidance and Control (G&C) systems.  

As a member of the Navigation and Mapping group, you will investigate, design, and implement advanced capabilities in image-based mapping and navigation. You will use your expertise in CV/ML to design novel solutions to novel problems in map-relative localization, hazard detection/avoidance, illumination invariance, 3D structure recovery, and integration of vision into end-to-end guidance and control solutions for autonomous spacecraft navigation. Ultimately, your work will bridge foundational research and the implementation of mature flight software for JPL missions.  

Your work will directly impact the engineering design of JPL’s terrestrial, lunar, Mars-centric and outer planets missions. At the same time, you will continue to advance the state of the art and engage with JPL’s Science community to understand their unique needs and foster collaboration between the engineering and science disciplines. You will be expected to actively seek out opportunities for funding to support your own research agenda in concert with overall Section objectives.  

List of Responsibilities: 

• Mapping and map-relative navigation for Moonfall, Skyfall, SOLO 

• Collaboration with commercial partners on Artemis/HLS for vision-based solutions to lunar landing 

• Application of ML expertise to partner with scientists on ROSES (Research Opportunities in Space and Earth Sciences) opportunities 
  

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Physics, Computer Science, related field with a minimum of 6 years of experience, a Master's degree with a minimum of 4 years of experience, or a Ph.D. with a minimum of 2 years related experience.  

• Extensive understanding and wide application of principles, theories, concepts, and techniques in Machine Learning and Computer Vision 

• Proven ability to adapt theoretical ML models to unique CV problems and develop novel training architectures.  

• Strong software skills in C++ and Python. 

• Track record of working independently with significant technical latitude to deliver functional capabilities.  
  

Desired Qualifications: 

• Experience with proposal development 

• Publication record in high impact journals and conferences in relevant ML, CV, or aerospace navigation domains.   

• Background in estimation or control theory.  

• Experience with participating in multidisciplinary teams.  

• Strong presentation skills.  

JPL has a catalog of benefits and perks that span from the traditional to the unique. This includes a variety of health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans, paid time off, learning, rideshare, childcare, flexible schedule, parental leave and many more. Our focus is on work-life balance, and living healthy, fulfilling lives as we Dare Mighty Things Together. For benefits eligible positions, benefits are effective the first day of the month coincident with or immediately following the employee’s start date.

For further benefits information click Benefits and Perks

The hiring range displayed below is specifically for those who will work in or reside in the location listed. In extending an offer, Jet Propulsion Laboratory considers factors including, but not limited to, the candidate’s job related skills, experience, knowledge, and relevant education/training.

The typical full time equivalent annual hiring range for this job in Pasadena, California.

JPL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, protected military or veteran status or any other characteristic or condition protected by Federal, state or local law.

In addition, JPL is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

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The Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a federal facility. Due to rules imposed by NASA, JPL will not accept applications from citizens of designated countries or those born in a designated country unless they are U.S. Citizens, Legal Permanent Residents of the U.S or have other protected status under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). The Designated Countries List is available here.