Optical Sensor Systems Engineer

Company: Quantum Space
Location: Rockville
Posted on: February 20, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Salary: $100,000 to $165,000 Who Were Looking For Quantum Space is redefining mobility and autonomy in cislunar and geostationary space. Our Ranger spacecraft deliver high delta-V and on-orbit maneuverability that enable customers to access, operate, and persist in orbits previously out of reach. Were building the infrastructure, vehicles, and operational expertise that connect and protect assets across the EarthMoon system. We are seeking an Optical Sensor Systems Engineer (Mid-Career/Senior) to lead the selection, analysis, integration, and validation of optical sensing payloads that enable Space Domain Awareness (SDA) and Rendezvous & Proximity Operations (RPO). In this highly technical, mission-critical role, you will own key aspects of optical system performance across the full lifecyclefrom requirements and sensor selection through algorithm development, testing, and on-orbit operations. This role is ideal for an experienced engineer who thrives in a fast-moving startup environment, brings deep expertise in optical sensing and image-based tracking, and is eager to drive system-level capability for detecting, tracking, and characterizing Resident Space Objects (RSOs). Where Youll Make an Impact System Definition and Trade Studies: Define and maintain system-level performance requirements for optical sensor payloads. Lead trade studies for sensor selection, including Focal Plane Array (FPA) technology and optical component configuration, to meet mission requirements. Algorithm Design and Implementation: Design, develop, and implement high-performance tracking and detection algorithms for both resolved and unresolved RSOs in optical imagery. Performance Evaluation and Modeling: Develop detailed radiometric and optical models (e.g., SNR, sensitivity, noise) to predict sensor performance. Review and analyze test telemetry and data to verify system functionality and performance against requirements. Testing and Verification: Develop and execute comprehensive test plans and detailed procedures for system-level performance, functional, and environmental testing. Support hands-on sensor testing and characterization. On-Orbit Support: Provide support for launch campaigns, on-orbit commissioning, calibration, and long-term operations, including addressing sensor-related anomalies. Anomaly Resolution: Actively troubleshoot hardware and software issues during development and testing, and lead root cause analysis efforts to resolve system anomalies. Collaboration: Interface with design, subsystem, and systems engineering teams to ensure optimal sensor integration and system-level performance. What It Takes Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or a closely related technical discipline. Minimum of 5-8 years of experience in the design, development, evaluation, and/or operation of spacecraft optical sensor systems. Expert knowledge of passive optical sensors for Space Domain Awareness (SDA) and RSO detection. Proven proficiency in Python for algorithm development, data analysis, and scripting. Strong background in digital image processing and the design of algorithms for target detection and tracking. Demonstrated experience in optical performance modeling, including radiometric analysis and noise budgeting. Experience in sensor testing and characterization, including data acquisition systems (DAQ) and the ability to interpret and validate test results. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to create clear and concise procedures and reports. Nice to Have MS or PhD in a relevant engineering or physics discipline Direct experience with Rendezvous & Proximity Operations (RPO) and associated sensor applications. Knowledge of Lidar (Light Detection and Ranging) systems, particularly concerning high-precision distance measurements in a space environment. Experience with spacecraft simulation and mission analysis tools such as STK (Systems Tool Kit) or GMAT. Familiarity with optical design software like ZEMAX or CODE V. Proficiency in C/C++ for embedded or performance-critical algorithm implementation. Experience with configuration management and requirements verification tools. Experience supporting on-orbit commissioning and calibration of optical payloads. What Youll Get Ownership Lead end-to-end optical sensor system development, from requirements to on-orbit performance. Innovation Shape next-generation SDA and RPO optical sensing capabilities and algorithmic pipelines. Impact Enable spacecraft to autonomously detect, track, and characterize objects in the EarthMoon system. Growth Expand your technical reach while collaborating with multidisciplinary experts across spacecraft programs. Compensation Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity sharing. Additional Requirements To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.

Keywords: Quantum Space, Catonsville , Optical Sensor Systems Engineer, Engineering , Rockville, Maryland