OPIR Modeling and Simulation Specialist
The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.
At Aerospace, we are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace for all employees to share in our common passion and aspiration – to carry out a mission much bigger than ourselves.
The Electronics and Sensors Division (ESD) is a world-class engineering and scientific leader in electronics and remote sensing systems. The Integrated Sensor Design and Analysis Department (ISDAD) resides within ESD. Our staff support passive electro-optical remote sensing payload development and test with design, modeling and simulation, and analysis. Our expertise, combined with sophisticated in-house laboratories, prototyping, modeling, and simulation capabilities, enables ISDAD to deliver innovative solutions to national space systems and civil customers.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Supporting the Department of Defense, especially the Air Force Space and Missile Center (SMC) and the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) on a wide variety of projects, from rapid-development prototypes through Class A satellites and from pre-proposal phases through on-orbit support.
- Providing electro-optical expertise in the areas of Earth remote sensing and overhead persistent infrared (OPIR) missile warning/tracking.
- Working independently and collaborating with senior staff and department management to solve challenging technical problems.
- Support the development of new remote sensing concepts with physics-based modeling and simulation, including the development of technical performance requirements and in the assessment of proposed designs.
- Interfacing frequently with program office and government personnel.
What You Need to be Successful
Minimum Requirements:
- Degree from an accredited university in optics, physics, electrical engineering, or another related discipline.
- 5+ years of experience performing electro-optical sensor, system, and/or phenomenology modeling and simulation, either in the workforce and/or in the pursuit of an advanced degree.
- Demonstrated experience using a common processing language (e.g. MATLAB, Python, IDL, C/C++, Fortran) to implement solutions to problems in remote sensing.
- Strong analytic problem-solving skills relating to the performance of passive remote sensing electro-optical visible and infrared sensors, especially OPIR systems, and including topics such as: radiometry, radiative transfer modeling, target detection, sensor performance metrics, earth-background infrared signatures, and visible and infrared backgrounds.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to work interactively and effectively with Air Force and government customers, and with contractor personnel.
- Must have or be able to obtain a Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information TS/SCI SSBI security clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.
How You Can Stand Out
It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:
- A total of 8+ years of experience performing electro-optical sensor, system, and/or phenomenology modeling and simulation, either in the workforce and/or in the pursuit of an advanced degree.
- Demonstrated team leadership experience and mentoring of junior staff.
- Familiarity with the UNIX/LINUX OS environment.
Ways We Reward Our Employees
During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.
Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:
- Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
- Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
- Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
- 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
- Flexible spending accounts
- Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
- Relocation assistance
- Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
- Education assistance programs
- An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect
We are all unique, from diverse backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.