Principal Engineer EO/IR systems

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:

As a Principal Engineer, you will leverage your extensive expertise in optics and infrared (IR) materials and sensor technology to drive the development and integration of advanced IR systems within our multidisciplinary team.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Technical Leadership

• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineering teams, ensuring the successful execution of complex IR sensor and EO/IR system projects.
• Lead the ideation, design, development, and testing of advanced IR sensor packages for various platforms and ranges.
• Develop and manage multi-camera distributed IR imaging systems aimed at providing 360 situational awareness and collecting detailed data.

System Integration

• Oversee the airframe integration of advanced IR technologies, ensuring seamless operations within multidisciplinary project teams.
• Coordinate and conduct multiple EO/IR system characterizations, aircraft integrations, and data collection activities supporting high-value test assets across the Department of Defense (DoD) customer base.

Research and Development

• Lead advanced IR concepts technical teams in the research and development of innovative IR sensors and advanced photonic materials.
• Transition advanced materials measurement systems to field monitoring applications for various flight test assets, ensuring effective deployment and functionality in operational environments.

Modeling and Simulation

• Perform detailed IR and CEM modeling, incorporating advanced physics techniques to enhance simulation accuracy.
• Lead the software development teams for IR sensor system modeling, ensuring adherence to government and industry standards.
• Conduct rigorous radiometric simulations and correlational material measurement data comparisons using various computational electromagnetic (CEM) methods.

Business Development

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities, including government contracts, defense projects, and industry partnerships related to IR materials and sensor technology.
• Participate in industry forums, technology symposiums, and defense expos to network, establish relationships, and identify potential collaborations.
• Develop and maintain strategic business relationships with key stakeholders and decision-makers.

Proposal Generation

• Lead the development of proposals in response to RFPs, leveraging technical expertise and industry knowledge to create compelling and compliant submissions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to gather necessary information, ensuring that proposals align with customer requirements and project objectives.
• Highlight past successes, technical capabilities, and team expertise in proposals to enhance the likelihood of winning contracts.

Mentoring Junior Engineers

• Mentor and guide junior engineers, providing technical direction, support, and professional development opportunities.
• Foster a collaborative and innovative environment, encouraging knowledge sharing and continuous learning among team members.
• Assist junior engineers in developing their skills and advancing their careers within the organization.

Reporting and Documentation

• Generate comprehensive technical reports and documentation for both internal and external stakeholders, ensuring transparent communication of project progress and technical findings.
• Present research findings and system developments in government and industry forums, establishing the organization as a subject matter expert within the field.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Proficient in programming and simulation tools including but not limited to MATLAB, C , C#, Java, Visual Studio, Linux, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, MS Project, and CST Microwave Studio.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate complex technical information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, with a strong ability to multitask and meet strict deadlines.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Ph.D. in Materials Engineering or a related field, with significant focus on EO/IR technology.
• Master's Degree in Engineering Science, Business Administration, Computer Engineering, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Additional certifications or training in relevant software tools and methodologies are advantageous.
• U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain/maintain a security clearance.

Experience

• Over 10 years of experience in the field of IR materials and sensor technology, with demonstrated expertise in airframe integration and advanced IR systems development.
• Proven track record in technical leadership roles, managing multidisciplinary teams, and delivering projects that exceed customer expectations.
• Extensive experience in performing detailed IR modeling and simulations using government-standard and commercial codebases.
• Experience in business development and proposal generation, with a successful history of securing new contracts and projects.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop junior engineers, fostering a supportive and growth-oriented environment.