Job Description
Job Description
Job Description
Job ID: 5375B
Date Posted: April 8 , 2026
About SDL Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.
The Strategic & Military Space Division delivers advanced satellite and sensor systems that support the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community. Our division is a key component of national security, providing technological solutions and expert mission support. Become part of a team dedicated to making a tangible contribution to our nation’s defense capabilities.
Position Overview We are seeking a Computer Vision Engineer with expertise in algorithm development and AI to lead real-time imaging projects and software frameworks for U.S. Military and NASA space missions. The selected candidate will partner with flight software, guidance navigation & control (GN&C), and systems engineers to deliver high-performance, reliable solutions for spacecraft docking, proximity operations, satellite refueling, and other space-based operations.
Key Responsibilities - Algorithm Development
- Designs, implements, and optimizes classical and modern CV/ML algorithms (object detection, tracking, segmentation, SLAM, pose estimation, etc.) for both on-board and ground-based processing
- Technology Strategy
- Influences SDL’s advanced imaging roadmap and contributes to community standards
- System Integration
- Works closely with FSW and GNC teams to embed vision pipelines into flight software and ground-segment tools
- Mentorship
- Guides junior CV/AI engineers, conducts code reviews, and shares best practices
- Framework Architecture
- Defines modular, scalable software architectures and CI/CD pipelines for vision applications
Technologies & Domains Space Domains - Spacecraft refueling and docking
- In‑space servicing, assembly, and manufacturing (ISAM)
- Space‑domain awareness (SDA)
- Satellite inspection and relative navigation
- Pose and state estimation
Technical Areas - Deep learning, neuromorphic / event‑based sensing, edge AI
- Real‑time / low‑latency processing, GPU acceleration
- Structure‑from‑motion, VSLAM / SLAM
- Classical CV (pinhole camera models, coordinate transforms)
Tools & Languages - Languages: Python, C++, MATLAB/Simulink
- Libraries: OpenCV, PyTorch, TensorFlow, HuggingFace, etc.
- DevOps: Git, CI/CD, Agile/Scrum, Atlassian suite (JIRA, Confluence, Bitbucket)
Required Qualifications - Education
- Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in computer vision, computer science, aerospace engineering, or a related technical discipline
- Experience
- 7+ years of experience designing and deploying computer vision systems in a professional environment
- Experience architecting modular, testable software (Agile, CI, version control)
- Technical Skills
- Mastery of modern CV/ML frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow, etc.)
- Strong foundation in classical vision (camera models, coordinate transforms, object detection)
- Proficiency in Python, C++, and/or MATLAB for image processing
- Security Clearance
- Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain U.S. Government security clearance
- Leadership
- Demonstrated ability to mentor junior engineers and lead technical discussions (white-boarding, UML, design docs)
Preferred Qualifications - Experience with automatic code‑generation from MATLAB/Simulink.
- Prior work on space‑qualified software (flight or ground systems).
- Knowledge of edge AI hardware (NVIDIA Jetson, FPGA, neuromorphic chips).
- Familiarity with the Atlassian toolset for project tracking and documentation.
*Salary Range - $93,000 - $156,000
- Salary commensurate based on education and relevant experience
This range serves as a general guideline and may vary based on factors such as role, level, location, market conditions, and individual qualifications, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The range displayed in the job advertisement reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries across all US locations. Specific salary details for a candidate’s preferred location can be provided by the recruiter or HR manager during the hiring process.
Why Join SDL?- Work on mission‑critical space systems that directly support U.S. defense and exploration.
- Collaborative culture built on respect, empowerment, and accountability .
- Opportunities to mentor junior engineers and shape the future of space‑based computer‑vision technology.
*SDL offers competitive salaries and
a comprehensive benefits package . Visit our
Benefits Page to learn more about what we offer.
At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.
The application window for this position is expected to remain open for approximately 14 days; however, it may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications promptly.
Ready to help shape the future of space‑based computer vision? Apply now and join a team that delivers mission‑critical solutions for the nation’s highest priorities.
For questions, assistance, or accommodation with the application process or the DoD SkillBridge program, please contact employment@sdl.usu.edu.
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