Electro-Optical Phenomenology, Sensors, and Analysis

About the Role

The Interceptor and Sensor Technology Group supports the development of advanced technologies and systems for application to sensors and interceptor missiles for use in future surveillance, missile defense, and air defense systems. The Group is currently working on programs involving air and space-based visible and infrared sensors, novel tracking algorithms, advanced control, guidance, and interceptor technologies for missile defense, as well as seeker and missile system technology.

The candidate will join a multidisciplinary team developing capabilities to support advanced sensor, hypersonic, or space vehicle design and analysis projects. Opportunities may include advanced algorithm development, phenomenology modeling, sensor performance modeling, guidance algorithms, real-time signal processing, and experimentation with optical systems.

Responsibilities

• Analyze performance and feasibility of new sensor technology and algorithms for future interceptors or sensor networks.
• Evaluate performance of existing architectures against evolving threats using real-world data from flight tests.
• Perform space sensor concept orbit analysis or earth imaging sensor analysis.
• Develop and test new technology prototypes in laboratory, ground, and airborne tests, including stratospheric balloon and small satellite concepts.
• Characterize sensor system capabilities in laboratory environments.
• Develop and apply novel algorithms to simulated and real data for various potential missions.
• Demonstrate new algorithms on deployed and experimental systems.

Requirements

• PhD or MS with five to seven years of experience in Physics, Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aero/Astro Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience with infrared technology, phenomenology, algorithms, or testing is desired.
• Knowledge of infrared physics; experience in algorithm development and artificial intelligence is a plus.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret level DoD security clearance.

Pay

Recent Graduate Hiring Range: $145,200 – $170,000

Experienced Hiring Range: $145,200 – $220,000

Note: The final salary offered will depend on factors such as scope of the role, candidate’s experience, skills, education/training, internal equity, and applicable legal requirements. This range reflects base salary only.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans.
• MIT-funded pension.
• Matching 401K.
• Paid leave (vacation, sick, parental, military, etc.).
• Tuition reimbursement and continuing education programs.
• Mentorship programs.
• Work-life balance options.
• Additional voluntary benefits, discounts, and perks through MIT.