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Job ID: 7265
Date Posted: March 31, 2026
At the Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL), we are driven by innovation and fueled by the passion of our employees. We are seeking an experienced Electro-Optical Systems Engineer to play a pivotal role in the design, development, and testing of visible and infrared imaging sensor systems for space flight programs in our Strategic & Military Space Division.
As a Senior Electro-Optical Systems Engineer, you will:
- Develop cutting edge electro-optical sensor systems for military space applications.
- Perform technical trades, develop requirements, ensure requirements are met, and collaborate with program management to deliver innovative solutions.
- Lead the design, integration, testing, and delivery of visible and infrared imaging sensor systems for space applications.
- Drive technical progress and execution of electro-optical sensor systems programs.
- Develop system requirements and ensure seamless integration of payload systems.
- Work closely with interdisciplinary teams, including mechanical, electrical, optical, software, and AI&T engineers, to deliver high-performance electro-optical payloads.
This role is unique in its interdisciplinary nature, combining Systems Engineering expertise with specialized knowledge in electro-optical payloads. The selected candidate will be at the forefront of innovation, bridging the gap between engineering disciplines to deliver cutting-edge solutions for space missions.
The Strategic & Military Space Division delivers advanced satellite and sensor systems that support the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community. Our division is a key component of national security, providing technological solutions and expert mission support. Become part of a team dedicated to making a tangible contribution to our nation's defense capabilities.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree or advanced degree in a related technical field (e.g., electro-optical systems engineering, optical science, aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or physics)
- 10+ years of relevant experience and a bachelor's degree, or 8+ years of relevant experience and a master's degree, or 4+ years of relevant experience and a PhD degree
- Experience with spaceflight EOIR instrument development and testing
- Strong understanding of optical principles and systems
- Experience with visible and infrared imaging detectors (CCD, CMOS, microbolometer, InSb, HgCdTe, etc.)
- Experience with radiometric modeling of electro-optical sensor systems in both the visible and the infrared spectrum
- Experience leading, organizing, and conducting trade studies, design analyses, and engineering analyses/studies to derive requirements for electro-optical sensor system designs
- Experience leading interdisciplinary teams of mechanical, electrical, optical, electro-optical, software, and AI&T engineers
- Ability to maintain technical relationships with internal and external customers, technical staff, and management
- Willingness to participate in technical interchange meetings and reviews
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Willingness to travel as needed
- Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master's degree or PhD in a related technical field (e.g., electro-optical systems engineering, optical science, aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or physics)
- In-depth experience with electro-optical sensor design, systems requirements, and subsystems design for space applications
- Proficiency understanding requirements, flowing down requirements, tracking requirements and verification of requirements
- Advanced experience with visible and infrared imagining detectors (CCD, CMOS, microbolometer, InSb, HgCdTe, etc.)
- Experience with proposal development and understanding of space environment for spaceflight sensors
- Knowledge of risks and risk mitigations for spaceflight sensors
*Salary Range
- $120,500 - $175,500
- Salary commensurate on education and relevant 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?
*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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Utah State University Space Dynamics Laboratory
Mar 31, 2026