Chief Scientist, EO​/IR Technologies

The Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a Chief Scientist, EO/IR Technologies to support the Emerging Space Systems Division in the development of advanced optical payload systems for next-generation space missions.

• Lead execution of programs focused on design, modeling, and experimental validation of optical systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum.
• Serve as Principal Investigator to build capabilities in optical system modeling and performance analysis, design trades, and system-level evaluations, and to advance the development of compact, high-performance payloads.
• Lead capture to secure new programs in advanced space sensors, engaging customers to identify requirements, developing discriminating technical solutions, and leading proposal development.
• Inform technology roadmaps and identify technology areas requiring internal R&D (IRAD) efforts, leading execution of those initiatives.
• Engage in deeply technical discussions to develop new solutions, collaborate across expert fields, and motivate research teams to demonstrate disruptive capabilities for space.

• Doctorate in Engineering, Physics, Optics, or a related field with 13+ years of prior relevant experience in leading research programs in advanced sensors, or a Master’s with 15+ years of prior relevant experience.
• US citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
• Experience with optical system modeling, simulation, or analysis.
• Experience leading sensor R&D efforts, serving as Principal Investigator and driving research goal ideation.
• Experience developing strong technical solutions and proposals to meet CRAD solicitation requirements and metrics.
• Proficient with finite-element design tools such as COMSOL, CST, or Lumerical.
• Experience working in a laboratory environment, including optical alignment, testing, or characterization.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Effective communication skills and ability to work in a collaborative team environment.
• Robust sense of initiative, a self-starter who can work independently.

• Active Secret clearance with the ability to obtain a higher-level clearance (TS/SCI).
• Experience building technical efforts in new business areas and increasing revenue.
• Served as Principal Investigator on large research programs with Government customers, including DARPA, AFRL, ONR.
• Exposure to advanced optical technologies such as diffractive optics, meta-optics, or integrated photonics.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.