Are you looking to make an impact in developing space-based sensing capabilities that help solve national security challenges?

The Proliferated Space Systems Division within the Leidos Space Business Area currently has an opening for a Payload Architect to work in our San Diego, CA office. This is an exciting opportunity to use your experience to design, build and test of Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) payloads where Leidos is transforming the payload solutions for the future. The Payload Architect leads the detailed technical development of space-based sensing solutions throughout the lifecycle of programs from conceptual design thought production. This is a dynamic, challenging opportunity to lead the production of integrated sensor technologies that are highly capable, fieldable, and scalable.

Primary Responsibilities

• Responsible for applied research and advanced engineering in the development of new electro-optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensors, components, and subassemblies.

• On a project basis, directs and coordinates all activities necessary to complete major projects requiring a wide variety of technical skills.

• Organizes and reviews technical effort, documentation and deliverables on contracts in conjunction with program management staff.

• Serves as the technical lead for assigned EO/IR system proposals and assists in developing and screening research and development proposals within the department.

• Assists managers in identifying and evaluating company technical capabilities which will help strengthen proposals, key technologies, and investment strategies directed toward company growth.

• Assists in evaluating technical capabilities of prospective and existing employees.

• Recognized authority in the design, assembly, test, and operation of space-based EO/IR sensors.

• Communication skills necessary to advise, counsel, and/or guide people on complex technical matters.

• Success is highly dependent upon the level and proficiency of communication/writing skills.

Basic Qualifications

• Master's Degree with 15+ years of prior relevant experience or Ph.D. with 13+ years of prior relevant experience.

• Must be a US citizen and possess an active Secret security clearance with the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret clearance.

• Specialized experience includes the use of structured analysis, design methodologies and/or design tools in the development and implementation of large projects and experience leading EO/IR sensor assembly, integration and test.

• The successful candidate should be a creative problem solver and demonstrate a broad ranging technical management and team development experience encompassing:

  • Electro-optical multispectral and hyperspectral imaging sensors for ground, airborne and space applications

  • Visible and infrared focal plane array and photo-detector technology

  • Process and system development

  • Failure and reliability engineering

  • Risk analysis and management

Preferred Qualifications

• Active Top Secret Security Clearance

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo — because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 — and moving faster than anyone else dares.

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.