Image Scientist – Mid-Level with TS/SCI Clearance

Location: Springfield, VA

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Image Scientist with at least 6 years of experience to join a distinguished, long-established team supporting mission-critical product quality efforts. This is an exceptional opportunity to advance your career while collaborating with industry experts, working closely with the customer, and enjoying a high degree of project autonomy, often unavailable to government contractors.

In this dynamic role, you will contribute to cutting-edge product evaluations, quality studies, new product initializations, and algorithm assessments. You will also develop image quality equations to quantify system performance across various operational conditions. As a key contributor, you’ll leverage your expertise in image path modeling, sensor simulation, and system performance analysis to support the customer’s strategic objectives.

This role is ideal for candidates with strong experience in geospatial analysis, image processing, and algorithm development. You will need to demonstrate proficiency in MATLAB coding and a solid understanding of image science, sensor modeling, and the systems engineering lifecycle. A familiarity with GEOINT systems, SAR platforms, and complex imagery products will be crucial for developing test and verification methodologies that ensure the quality and operational effectiveness of critical systems.

Key Responsibilities:

• Sensor Modeling: Decompose and model image chain elements, including sensor, detector, atmospheric, and material properties, to evaluate overall system performance.

• Algorithm Assessment: Quantify product performance and assess algorithms for mission-specific applications.

• Baseline System Assessment: Conduct system performance evaluations to inform sensor initialization and operational readiness.

• Performance Monitoring: Continuously monitor system performance over time, detecting issues and providing actionable recommendations for corrective actions.

• Error Diagnostics: Analyze detected errors and artifacts, propose potential causes, and recommend solutions to enhance image quality.

Required Experience and Qualifications:

• Active TS/SCI clearance or ability to obtain SCI and pass a polygraph.

• Bachelor’s degree in Image Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field (Master’s preferred).

• Minimum 5 years of experience with a BS/BA or 3 years with MS/MA.

• Strong background in SAR imagery platforms and complex imagery product analysis.

• Proficiency in MATLAB programming and experience with code modification and analysis to also include C, Python and IDL

• In-depth experience with image processing, digital signal processing, and image chain analysis.

• Applied knowledge of image quality metrics, NIIRS, error estimation, and sensor calibration.

• Proven experience in systems engineering, data verification, and independent testing throughout the lifecycle.

• Strong written and oral communication skills, with experience in briefing stakeholders, solving technical issues, and writing test plans and reports.

• Ability to collaborate effectively in team settings and work independently when needed.

• A history of delivering results and taking ownership of complex challenges.

Desirable Attributes:

• A proactive, problem-solving mindset with a willingness to learn in a fast-paced, evolving work environment.

• Strong interpersonal skills and a customer-focused approach.

If you are a dedicated Image Scientist with a passion for innovation, geospatial expertise, and strong coding skills in MATLAB, this is your chance to make a lasting impact in a highly impactful, mission-driven role.