Space Dynamics Laboratory
Job ID: 5914B
Date Posted: January 7, 2026
Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking an experienced Radiometric Calibration Engineer, Electro-Optical Systems Engineer, or Instrument Scientist to perform pre-launch system-level test and calibration of electro-optical sensors on space flight sensor programs for the Civil & Commercial Space Division. 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 applies advanced methods, theories, and measurement techniques in the investigation and solution of complex optical sensor calibration problems
Reviews literature, patents, and current practices relevant to assigned projects
Develops new hardware to test and calibrate optical sensors
Works with vendors to acquire new hardware to test and calibrate optical sensors
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 cultivate business development relationships with customers
Provides technical leadership for 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 US Government Security Clearance
Bachelor’s or advanced degree in an appropriate technical field (e.g. optical engineering, electrical engineering, optical sciences, physics, applied physics, engineering physics, or related technical field)
14+ years relevant full‑time work experience with a bachelor’s degree, or 12+ years with a master’s degree, or 8+ years with a PhD
Interdisciplinary familiarity of electro‑optical systems including optical, electrical, software, thermal and mechanical disciplines
Experienced user of MATLAB, Python, or other technical software used for data analysis
Considered an expert in one or more of the following: radiometric calibration, Fourier transform spectrometers, blackbodies, optical alignment test equipment, theodolites, optical wavefront interferometers, optical radiation detectors, measurement of sensor response linearity, or other measurement techniques, or equipment specific to electro‑optical sensor calibration
Knowledge of radiometric modeling principles
Understanding of science objectives and requirements and ability to flow down to instrument and calibration requirements
Experience planning and executing tests to characterize electro‑optical system‑level performance
Experience performing data analysis to characterize electro‑optical system‑level performance, including uncertainty analysis
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Ability to author professional papers and reports
Ability to anticipate risks and develop contingency plans to manage them
Ability to provide leadership and mentoring to junior Engineers
Ability to coordinate and lead engineering teams
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities
Ability to build strong relationships with individuals at all levels, both internally and externally, while maintaining trust and collaboration in challenging situations
Preferred Qualifications
Expert user of MATLAB, Python, or other technical software used for data analysis
Experience developing or procuring new hardware used for calibration of electro‑optical sensors (e.g., blackbodies, integrating spheres, spectrometers)
Demonstrated experience leading small technical teams to complete projects or proposal efforts
Salary Range
$130,000 - $167,000 (salary commensurate based on education and experience)
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?
a comprehensive benefits package . 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 employment@sdl.usu.edu.
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Date Posted: January 7, 2026
Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking an experienced Radiometric Calibration Engineer, Electro-Optical Systems Engineer, or Instrument Scientist to perform pre-launch system-level test and calibration of electro-optical sensors on space flight sensor programs for the Civil & Commercial Space Division. 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 applies advanced methods, theories, and measurement techniques in the investigation and solution of complex optical sensor calibration problems
Reviews literature, patents, and current practices relevant to assigned projects
Develops new hardware to test and calibrate optical sensors
Works with vendors to acquire new hardware to test and calibrate optical sensors
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 cultivate business development relationships with customers
Provides technical leadership for 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 US Government Security Clearance
Bachelor’s or advanced degree in an appropriate technical field (e.g. optical engineering, electrical engineering, optical sciences, physics, applied physics, engineering physics, or related technical field)
14+ years relevant full‑time work experience with a bachelor’s degree, or 12+ years with a master’s degree, or 8+ years with a PhD
Interdisciplinary familiarity of electro‑optical systems including optical, electrical, software, thermal and mechanical disciplines
Experienced user of MATLAB, Python, or other technical software used for data analysis
Considered an expert in one or more of the following: radiometric calibration, Fourier transform spectrometers, blackbodies, optical alignment test equipment, theodolites, optical wavefront interferometers, optical radiation detectors, measurement of sensor response linearity, or other measurement techniques, or equipment specific to electro‑optical sensor calibration
Knowledge of radiometric modeling principles
Understanding of science objectives and requirements and ability to flow down to instrument and calibration requirements
Experience planning and executing tests to characterize electro‑optical system‑level performance
Experience performing data analysis to characterize electro‑optical system‑level performance, including uncertainty analysis
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Ability to author professional papers and reports
Ability to anticipate risks and develop contingency plans to manage them
Ability to provide leadership and mentoring to junior Engineers
Ability to coordinate and lead engineering teams
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities
Ability to build strong relationships with individuals at all levels, both internally and externally, while maintaining trust and collaboration in challenging situations
Preferred Qualifications
Expert user of MATLAB, Python, or other technical software used for data analysis
Experience developing or procuring new hardware used for calibration of electro‑optical sensors (e.g., blackbodies, integrating spheres, spectrometers)
Demonstrated experience leading small technical teams to complete projects or proposal efforts
Salary Range
$130,000 - $167,000 (salary commensurate based on education and experience)
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?
a comprehensive benefits package . 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 employment@sdl.usu.edu.
#J-18808-Ljbffr