Optical Engineer, Junior

Background Information:

The Patuxent River Infrared Signature Measurement Group is a fully autonomous, field deployable measurement team focused on the collection and analysis of Ultraviolet & Infrared (UV/IR) signature data from static to dynamic flight test. To accomplish this, state-of-the-art imagers and spectrometers are utilized to collect and analyze radiometric signature measurements for DoW programs of record. PRISM works hand-in-hand with a variety of engineering disciplines to develop methods of testing and collection of radiometric signature data of DoW assets under test.

PRISM engineers have the opportunity to work in various environments behind desks; in highly specialized labs, at indoor/outdoor test and measurement ranges, and field operational locations. PRISM is critical to the success of DoW programs, aircraft survivability, and the warfighter at large.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Collection, calibration, and reduction of radiometric data using radiometric instrumentation for field test events. This includes signature phenomenology of aircraft structure, engines, missiles, rocket motor plumes, air platforms, and the relevant background scenes during flight conditions in support of DoW technology development and other programs.
• Operation of UV/IR imagers, Spectrometers, and FTIR based Hyperspectral Imagers. This includes data collection, analysis, post-processing, and communicating results of laboratory, field, flight, and vehicle signature measurements.
• Image processing and data reduction, including investigating spectral radiometric calibration techniques and procedures. Evaluation and experimentation of state-of-the-art UV/IR spectral FTIR sensor performance in various environments and conditions.
• Develop code using MATLAB & MODTRAN with respect to the operation, calibration, data reduction, image processing, batch-processing and interpretation of multispectral radiometric infrared camera data, interferograms, & hyperspectral data-cubes.

Note: This job description describes the general nature of the duties and requirements of the job. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list or to limit the supervisor's ability to modify work assignments.

Educational, Experience, and Skills Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Optics, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or Electrical Engineering.
• No experience required
• (Preferred) Experience related to UV/IR imagers, spectrometers, FTIR technology, IR calibration, data reduction, FPAs, hyperspectral, and/or multispectral imaging platforms, radiation transport in a participating medium, IR signature measurement, IR signature predictions of hardbodies, plumes, wakes, trails, or backgrounds including atmospheric path radiance and transmission losses.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including an ability to explain complex technical concepts in a readily comprehensible manner to facilitate the development and execution of R&D test plans to solve challenging aircraft survivability problems.
• Experience with algorithm development, programming/coding/scripting image/signal processing techniques in MATLAB. Image processing, image chain analysis to include atmospheric modeling, signal quality and noise, optics, detector calibration, and image processing of pixel data.
• Experience with FTIR, Hyperspectral sensors, Hyperspectral Datacubes, and characterization of Focal Play Arrays.
• Understanding of infrared radiation physics as it relates to aircraft survivability.
• Experience developing MATLAB based scripts for image and signal processing of IR imagery data & FTIR based spectral radiometric datasets. Must possess a valid driver's license and successfully pass drug screening.

Clearance Requirement:

• Currently hold or be able to obtain and maintain the proper US DoW issued security clearance, which requires US Citizenship. Security clearance eligibility may be discussed during the interview phase.
• Employment and start date contingent upon the candidate receiving the required US DoW issued interim security clearance.

Work Conditions:

Conditions may vary. Most work is performed in enclosed buildings, but some outside work may be required. Work will include sitting, standing, walking, lifting and reaching. Applicants should be capable of lifting 50-100 lbs. assisted by other employees. Vision abilities needed to perform this job include close vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust and focus.