The Photonics/Optical Sensors Scientist serves as the definitive expert in optics, optical sensors, and optical systems, guaranteeing precise representation of these elements' capabilities, development, testing, operations, and processing in technical dialogues. This role involves contributing to the development and execution of studies, analyses, algorithms, models, simulations, and other technical projects and endeavors as outlined in project objectives.

This position requires security clearance and is based onsite in New York City.

Responsibilities

• Serves as a technical advisor, offering support to both internal teams within Stealth Communications and external partners, including the US Government, on electro-optical matters.
• Recognized for expertise in electro-optical systems, particularly in ground and space-based space object surveillance and identification (SOSI), covering visual, near-infrared, and infrared spectral regimes, as well as the integration, testing, and calibration of these systems.
• Provides technical guidance to Stealth's systems engineering division on the development and procurement of optical payload systems, ensuring projects align with strategic goals.
• Utilizes advanced technologies and scientific principles to innovate in the field of electro-optical systems.
• Acquires comprehensive knowledge of system requirements for assigned projects and the design specifications meeting these needs.
• Supports the design and development of resilient, high-precision optical payloads for contested and denied environments, ensuring mission assurance across atmospheric and exoatmospheric domains.
• Manages the design and creation of optical payload systems and their components.
• Aids in formulating operational concepts and strategies for electro-optical systems for government clients.
• Conducts and oversees studies on system performance, design optimization, and system design evaluations.
• Advocates for rigorous engineering practices in research and development activities, emphasizing technical risk management.
• Monitors acquisitions, focusing on electro-optical payload system components, to ensure cohesive system integration and fulfillment of mission objectives.
• Prepares and delivers documentation and presentations to update stakeholders on project status and to facilitate discussions with government and industry representatives.
• Designs and executes tests to confirm the optical, mechanical, and electrical integrity of electro-optical system components.
• Analyzes test data from space electro-optical systems, leading efforts to investigate and resolve any discrepancies.
• Explores AI-integrated photonic systems for anomaly detection, ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) and sensor fusion applications.
• Interface with Stealth's Cyber Operations and Intelligence teams to align sensor development with threat detection, signature exploitation, and autonomous spectral analysis workflows.
• Capable of independent work and collaboration within a diverse and multidisciplinary team, including scientists, engineers, business professionals, and ex-military personnel.

Qualifications

• Required: An active, transferable TS/SCI CI Poly U.S. government-issued security clearance prior to commencement.
• A Master’s degree (preferred: Ph.D) in Science / Applied Photonics.
• A minimum of fifteen (15) years of experience in electro-optical sensors and systems, covering UV, visual, near-infrared, and infrared spectral regimes, with a focus on analysis, design, development, fabrication, integration, testing, and operations. Candidates with at least ten (10) years of relevant experience will also be considered.
• Profound knowledge of electro-optic processing, characterization, and testing, alongside familiarity with the supporting electronics and calibration processes related to electro-optical systems.
• Deep understanding of optics based signal processing, spectral exploitation and target discrimination in cluttered or high-jitter environments.
• Familiarity with modern quantum-enhanced sensors, AI-in-the-loop EO systems and/or hybrid photonic-electronic subsystems considered advantageous.
• A solid foundation in various optical systems, encompassing those with passive and active control elements.
• Demonstrated success working with multi-disciplinary teams including SIGINT/IMINT analysts, satellite operators, cyber analysts and former military technologists.

Salary starting at $250,000 annually + $250,000 Sign-On Bonus.