Radiometric Calibration Engineer/Instrument Scientist

Job Description

Job Description

Job ID: 5914D
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.

Key Responsibilities:

• 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

Required Qualifications:

• 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, blackbodies, 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

Preferred Qualifications:

• 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 system-level electro-optical sensor performance

Salary Range
Salary commensurate on education and experience

• Level I:
  • $76,000 - $91,000
  • 0-3 years of experience and a master’s degree
• Level II:
  • $91,000 - $116,000
  • 3-8 years of experience and a master’s degree or 0-4 years and a PhD
• Level III+:
  • $116,000 - $167,000
  • 8+ years of experience and a master’s degree or 4+ years and a PhD

This range serves as a general guideline and may vary based on factors such as role, level, location, market conditions, and individual qualifications, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The range displayed in the job advertisement reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries across all US locations. Specific salary details for a candidate’s preferred location can be provided by the recruiter or HR manager during the hiring process.

Why join SDL?
*SDL offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package . Visit our  Benefits Page to learn more about what we offer.
SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.

At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.

The application window for this position is expected to remain open for approximately 14 days; however, it may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications promptly.

For questions, assistance, or accommodation with the application process or the DoD SkillBridge program, please contact View email address on ziprecruiter.com.

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