IR Systems Evaluation Engineer SME

MTSI is seeking an experiencedIR Systems Evaluation Engineer SME to provide technical expertise in the testing and evaluation of advanced infrared systems for an air platform program. This role involves designing, executing, and analyzing flight test procedures for infrared sensors and systems, ensuring operational readiness and performance under real-world conditions. The ideal candidate will bring deep knowledge of infrared technologies, flight test processes, and system evaluation methods, contributing directly to mission-critical DoD programs.

Responsibilities

• Infrared System Testing & Evaluation:
• Design and execute flight test plans for infrared sensors and systems on advanced air platforms.
• Evaluate IR sensor performance against program requirements under various environmental and operational conditions.
• Perform real-time and post-flight data analysis to assess sensor accuracy, resolution, range, and target acquisition performance.
• Sensor Integration and Validation:
• Collaborate with systems engineers and avionics teams to integrate infrared systems into aircraft platforms and ensure seamless functionality.
• Validate IR system integration with other subsystems, such as communications, radar, and weapons systems.
• Flight Test Planning and Execution:
• Create detailed flight test briefs, procedures, and configurations to optimize test outcomes.
• Conduct pre-mission planning and post-mission debriefs to capture lessons learned and refine systems.
• Monitor performance during live flight operations and resolve issues related to infrared system testing.
• Performance Analysis:
• Develop models and simulations to predict system performance under test conditions.
• Use data analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python, or specialized IR analytics tools) to verify compliance with program standards and objectives.
• Documentation and Reporting:
• Develop technical test reports, summaries, and decision-support materials for stakeholders.
• Create documentation for flight test processes, results, and recommendations for system improvements.
• Compliance and Standards:
• Ensure that test procedures and evaluation criteria align with DoD standards, including MIL-STD specifications.
• Maintain adherence to program-specific guidelines throughout the test and evaluation lifecycle.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related technical field; advanced degrees are a plus.
• 12+ years of experience in infrared systems design, testing, and evaluation, especially in aerospace or defense applications.
• Expertise in IR technologies, including sensor integration, optical performance analysis, and imaging systems.
• Familiarity with flight testing processes, data acquisition tools, and post-flight analysis methods.
• Proficiency with technical modeling and data analysis software (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink, Python).
• Experience working on advanced air platform systems, such as UAVs, fighter jets, or surveillance aircraft.
• Must possess an active Top Secret clearance with eligibility for SCI.

Desired

• 15+ years of experience in infrared systems design, testing, and evaluation, especially in aerospace or defense applications.
• Certifications that validate technical expertise in infrared systems and flight testing:
• Certified Test and Evaluation Professional (CTEP) - International Test and Evaluation Association (ITEA).
• INFRARED Thermography Certification - Validating proficiency with IR sensor and imaging applications.
• INCOSE Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP): Demonstrates systems engineering expertise for sensor integration.
• CompTIA Security+ or CISSP: Foundational cybersecurity certification applicable to defense systems.
• Lean Six Sigma Certification: To optimize test and evaluation processes.
• Geospatial Information Systems (GIS) Certification: For IR systems applied in geolocation and targeting.
• Knowledge of DoD standards and requirements, such as MIL-STD-810 (Environmental Testing) and MIL-HDBK-516C (Airworthiness).
• Familiarity with sensor fusion technologies for multi-modal systems integration.
• Experience with testing in controlled environments, such as ranges, wind tunnels, or simulation labs.

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