Radiometric Calibration Engineer​/Instrument Scientist

Job D
Date Posted:
May 12, 2026

The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) Civil & Commercial Space Division is seeking a Radiometric Calibration Engineer/Instrument Scientist to perform pre‑launch system‑level test and calibration of electro‑optical sensors on space flight sensor programs in the ultraviolet to infrared spectral regions.

The Civil & Commercial Space Division is at the forefront of scientific research and space exploration. We equip major Government and commercial missions with calibrated state‑of‑the‑art sensors and satellites. We also provide world‑class AI&T technologies and mission management. Our projects include challenges across planetary science, Earth observation, heliophysics, and astrophysics. Be part of a team that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in space and contributes to monumental scientific discoveries.

• Develops optical sensor test and calibration plans and data collection procedures
• Analyzes data from optical sensor calibration tests and assists in the reporting and presenting of test data
• Develops and recommends optical sensor calibration approaches for new or improved processes
• Develops and applies advanced methods, theories, and measurement techniques in the investigation and solution of complex optical sensor calibration problems
• Develops new hardware to test and calibrate optical sensors
• May evaluate vendor capabilities to provide required products or services
• Conducts complex tests and investigations
• Supports proposals for new optical sensor projects
• Collaborates across engineering disciplines, including mechanical, thermal, electrical, systems, contamination, calibration, and quality
• Interfaces with technical support personnel, Technical Writers, Engineering Technicians, and Program Managers as required
• May provide technical leadership to more junior‑level employees
• May take a leadership role in design reviews and larger proposal efforts

• Must be a US citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain U.S. Government security clearance
• Advanced degree (master’s or PhD) in an appropriate technical field (e.g., physics, applied physics, astronomy, astrophysics, astrophysical & planetary sciences, optical engineering, optical sciences, electrical engineering)
• Experience with one or more of the following:
  Fourier Transform Spectrometers, black bodies, optical alignment test equipment, theodolites, laser trackers, optical wavefront interferometers, vacuum ultraviolet (UV) instrumentation such as sources, monochromators, and/or detectors
• Experienced user of MATLAB, Python, or other technical software used for data analysis
• Knowledge of data analysis and understanding of physical measurements
• Interdisciplinary familiarity with space‑based electro‑optical systems, including optical, electrical, software, thermal, and mechanical disciplines
• Familiarity with the test and calibration of optical systems
• Familiarity with operation of vacuum chambers and cryogenics
• Technical experience and understanding of passive remote sensing and metrology
• Familiarity with radiometry and radiometric modeling principles
• Knowledge of data acquisition techniques, software, and instrumentation
• Demonstrated strong work ethic and integrity
• Strong technical problem‑solving and analytical skills
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with proven experience giving technical presentations
• Ability to report and author professional papers
• Ability to effectively work both individually and within a team environment
• Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office suite
• Strong attention to detail
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities
• Ability to lead small teams to complete projects or proposal efforts
• Ability to provide leadership and mentoring to junior engineers

• Experience designing or testing vacuum ultraviolet (UV) instruments (< 200 nm)
• 3+ years relevant full‑time work experience
• Demonstrated experience leading small technical teams to complete projects or proposal efforts
• Experience planning and executing tests to characterize system‑level electro‑optical sensor performance
• Experience performing data analysis to characterize…