Design and Analysis Engineer 3

The Judge Group is seeking a highly skilled Design and Controls Engineer to join our client's exclusive team supporting advanced electro-optical research and development at Kirtland Air Force Base .

This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge Space Domain Awareness initiatives and next-generation optical and control systems in partnership with the Air Force Research Laboratory Optics Division . The facility supports research across multiple telescope systems ranging from 0.5m to 3.5m in aperture and is recognized globally for its technical innovation and mission impact.

You'll work as part of a multidisciplinary engineering team developing, optimizing, and maintaining sophisticated control solutions for optical and electro-mechanical systems that drive real-world advancements in aerospace technology.

This job will have the following responsibilities:

• Develop high-fidelity mathematical models of dynamic systems (mechanical, electrical, thermal, etc.) using first-principles physics and empirical identification methods.
• Analyze system behavior for stability, linearity, and transient/steady-state responses .
• Design and implement advanced control strategies , including:
  
  • Classical control (PID tuning, lead-lag)
  • Modern/state-space control (Pole Placement, LQG/LTR)
  • Optimal, Robust (H∞, μ-synthesis), Adaptive, and Model Predictive Control (MPC)
• Develop multi-variable control strategies for complex, interconnected systems.
• Use MATLAB/Simulink and related toolboxes for modeling, simulation, and rapid prototyping.
• Conduct Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing for control algorithm validation.
• Optimize control parameters for accuracy, response speed, and robustness under varying conditions.
• Collaborate with software and firmware engineers to translate algorithms into executable C/C++ or FPGA-based code for embedded or real-time platforms.
• Provide technical guidance during system integration, commissioning, and troubleshooting .
• Prepare detailed design specifications, simulation reports, validation plans , and present findings to multidisciplinary teams.
• Work 100% onsite at Kirtland AFB , supporting a world-class research and development environment.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Active U.S. Top Secret / SCI clearance
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related field
• 4+ years of professional experience designing, modeling, and implementing advanced control algorithms for dynamic systems
• 4+ years of MATLAB/Simulink experience (including Control System, MPC, Optimization, Simscape, and Stateflow toolboxes)
• 3+ years programming in C/C++ or Python for algorithm implementation or data analysis
• Ability to work variable shifts as needed (day, evening, night, weekends)

Preferred Qualifications:

• 9+ years of related work experience or a Ph.D. in a relevant engineering discipline
• Expertise in two or more advanced control techniques (MPC, LQR, robust, adaptive control)
• Deep theoretical foundation in classical and modern control theory
• Strong mathematical background (linear algebra, differential equations, optimization)
• Experience with dynamic system modeling , system identification , and HIL/SIL testing
• Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and embedded control development
• Background in telescope or optical system control (e.g., pointing accuracy, vibration suppression, thermal stability)
• Experience with LabVIEW or related simulation tools
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills