FTS has an opportunity for a Satellite Calibration Engineer in Chantilly, VA.
The Satellite Calibration Engineer supports the calibration, characterization, and performance assessment of satellite payloads and mission data products.
Responsibilities- Lead calibration and characterization activities for satellite payloads, sensors, and mission data products
- Develop and refine calibration algorithms, models, and performance metrics to ensure mission accuracy and reliability
- Analyze payload telemetry, mission data, and system performance trends to identify anomalies and recommend corrective actions
- Support end-to-end system calibration across space, ground, and mission processing segments
- Collaborate with systems engineers, mission analysts, and government stakeholders to ensure calibration approaches align with USG mission needs
- Conduct technical assessments, modeling, and simulation to evaluate calibration impacts on mission performance
- Support integration, verification, and validation of calibration processes within operational ground systems
- Generate technical documentation, calibration plans, performance reports, and engineering artifacts in accordance with USG standards
- Participate in technical reviews, readiness events, and mission rehearsals
Required Skills/Qualifications- TS/SCI with polygraph
- BS STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math) in engineering discipline
- 10+ years of experience supporting satellite systems, payload engineering, calibration, or mission data processing
- Strong understanding of satellite payload behavior, sensor physics, signal processing, and calibration methodologies
- Proficiency with analytical tools and engineering environments (e.g., MATLAB, Python)
- Strong communication skills and ability to work in a multi-contractor, mission-driven environment
Desired Skills/Qualifications- MS STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math) in engineering discipline
- Experience supporting space or ground systems for the Intelligence Community or DoD
- Experience with SIGINT and/or transport mission systems
- Experience with enterprise engineering frameworks, mission assurance processes, and calibration standards
