Computer Vision Engineer III - Optics Engineer

Sierra Space Careers

At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth.

Sierra Space team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers, we aim to safeguard our nation, sustain human presence in space, and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond.

Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver, and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space.

We are mission-driven, and together, we are an extraordinary team.

About the Role

A Computer Vision Engineer III leverages extensive programming and machine-learning expertise to design, architect, and optimize AI software and hardware that utilizes visual data to perform specific tasks or solve complex problems. This role is pivotal in advancing RPO (Rendezvous and Proximity Operations) capabilities and solutions for satellites, driving innovation and excellence in the field.

In this role, you will design, architect, and implement advanced computer vision algorithms and models to process and analyze visual data. You will lead the integration and deployment of computer vision solutions into satellite systems, collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless functionality. Conducting rigorous testing and validation of computer vision systems will be a key responsibility, ensuring exceptional performance, accuracy, and reliability. You will develop and optimize sophisticated AI software and hardware for satellite applications, prioritizing scalability, robustness, and efficiency. Maintaining, enhancing, and refactoring existing computer vision systems and algorithms will be essential to improving performance and functionality. Additionally, you will document code, processes, and methodologies comprehensively for future reference and team collaboration. Mentoring and guiding junior and mid-level engineers will be an integral part of your role, providing technical leadership and fostering knowledge sharing. Staying abreast of the latest advancements in computer vision and machine learning technologies, you will apply relevant innovations to current and future projects. You will participate in and lead code reviews, offering constructive feedback to peers and ensuring code quality. Collaborating with product managers and stakeholders, you will define project requirements, deliverables, and timelines, driving innovation and continuous improvement in computer vision techniques and methodologies.

About You

Our mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower – to join us in this critical mission.

We're looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals – while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Requires bachelor's degree in a related field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree or master's +3 yrs experience).
• Typically, 5+ years of related experience.
• Expertise in one to multiple programming languages and advanced understanding of software development principles.
• Experience with different software development methodologies such as Agile and Scrum/Kanban.
• Ability to design and architect complex software systems.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to mentor and guide other engineers.
• The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance is required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Extensive experience with computer vision libraries and frameworks such as OpenCV, TensorFlow, or PyTorch.
• Experience with developing and deploying Image Processing algorithms
• In-depth knowledge of machine learning algorithms and techniques.
• Prior experience with the design, integration and/or testing of integrated EO/IR systems
• Experience with deriving optical system requirements from mission label requirements
• Experience characterizing EO/IR Imaging System performance including: MTF, SNR, Distortion, Non-uniformity Characterizations, and Calibration
• Experience with satellite systems or aerospace applications.
• Proven track record of successfully delivering complex computer vision projects from concept to deployment.
• Act as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) for optical sensors, providing technical guidance on sensor selection, calibration, and integration into computer vision systems.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Experience with cloud platforms and services for deploying and scaling computer vision applications.
• Familiarity with hardware acceleration techniques for computer vision tasks, such as using GPUs or specialized hardware.
• Experience with data annotation and management for training computer vision models.
• Knowledge of image processing techniques and tools.
• Ability to lead and manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and high quality.

Compensation :

Pay Range:

$129,776.00 - $178,441.25

Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, experience, internal equity and market competitiveness.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance. U.S. Citizenship status is required as this position needs an active U.S. Security Clearance for employment. Non-U.S. Citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance. The Department of Defense Consolidated Adjudications Facility (DoD CAF), a federal government agency, handles the adjudicative aspects of the security clearance eligibility process for industry applicants. Adjudicative factors which affect the outcome of the eligibility determination include, but are not limited to, allegiance to the U.S., foreign influence, foreign preference, criminal conduct, security violations and illegal drug use.

Elevate Your Career

At Sierra Space, we are committed to your personal and professional development. We empower you to make profound and meaningful contributions and foster a vibrant culture of collaboration, where teamwork ignites breakthrough innovations.

We also offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, and more.

Sierra Space is an industry-leading space and defense technology company providing satellites, spacecraft, and enabling mission systems and components. We deliver mission-proven technologies to our customers that safeguard our nation, protect space-based assets and enable space exploration.

Application Deadline: This role will remain posted until a qualified pool of candidates is identified.

Please note: Sierra Space does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to Sierra Space team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of Sierra Space, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.

Sierra Space Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need special assistance or a reasonable accommodation related to applying for employment with Sierra Space or at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us.