Engineering Manager - Sensor Technology Evaluation and Prototyping Section
In an era of dynamic change in space, Aerospace is addressing a generation of complex challenges. We operate the only federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) committed exclusively to the space enterprise. Our technical experts span every discipline of space-related science and engineering. Join our team and thrive in a career that matters to the world and you personally.
Responsibilities
The Visible and Infrared Sensor Systems Department (VISSD) supports the design and development of electro-optical (EO) sensor payloads and prototypes for civil, commercial, and national space systems. Our activities include: concept definition and mission driven design synthesis of electro-optical space sensors, detailed characterization and performance analysis of visible and infrared (IR) electro-optical image sensors, design, assembly, integration and test of ground and airborne prototype sensors, high fidelity modeling of the performance of both individual electro-optical sensors and configurations of space and ground sensors. This posting is for a Section Manager to lead the Sensor Technology Evaluation and Prototyping Section within VISSD.
Key Functions
- Provide technical leadership and planning for activities involving a group of engineers supporting the development of visible and infrared sensor systems used for space surveillance, overhead persistent infrared systems, and Earth remote sensing applications.
- Direct and develop junior staff in the areas of independent focal plane array (FPA) characterization as well as prototype sensor hardware design and development.
- Work closely with the customer to coordinate tasking, report progress, resolve technical issues, and assure project success.
- Recommend staffing needs for the organization and lead the recruiting process.
- Implement existing policies, practices, and operating processes and recommend improvements.
- Maintain and pursue customer relationships for business development of work related to group core competencies (i.e., FPA technology and sensor prototyping).
- Provide mentoring, coaching, and performance evaluation of direct reports.
Qualifications
Required
- Degree from an accredited university in physics, electrical engineering, or another related field.
- Strong hardware, laboratory, data analysis, analytical, and software skills with a demonstrated ability to lead engineering analysis tasks.
- Experience developing engineering analysis methods and tools using a primary computer programming language (e.g. Python, MATLAB, IDL or another appropriate language).
- Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to work interactively and effectively with customers and with contractor personnel.
- Must have a current and active Top Secret Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) security clearance (US citizenship required).
Preferred
- Minimum 8 years of experience with visible and infrared remote sensing systems and/or hardware design and development activities.
- Prior project leadership and/or management experience.
- Current working relationships within the space EO/IR sensor system community.
- Advanced degree from an accredited university in physics, electrical engineering, optics, or another related field.