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Electro Optical Infrared Sensor System Engineer Jobs

... level scientific, engineering, and technical advisory support to a government customer. The ... and related electro-optical systems. * Provide independent technical assessments and ...

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Electro Optical Infrared Sensor System Engineer information

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$50.5K

$111.1K

$168K

How much do electro optical infrared sensor system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for electro optical infrared sensor system engineer in the United States is $111,091.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $132,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an electro optical infrared sensor system engineer do?

An Electro Optical Infrared (EOIR) Sensor System Engineer designs, develops, and tests sensor systems that use both visible light (electro-optical) and infrared technology. These engineers work on complex imaging and detection systems used in applications such as surveillance, navigation, and targeting for defense, aerospace, and scientific purposes. They collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure sensor systems meet performance requirements and often participate in integration and troubleshooting activities. Their work involves both hardware and software aspects, including optics, electronics, and signal processing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an electro optical infrared sensor system engineer?

To thrive as an Electro Optical Infrared Sensor System Engineer, you typically need a strong background in electrical engineering, optics, and sensor physics, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with technical tools such as MATLAB, Zemax, LabVIEW, and proficiency in using simulation and modeling software are fundamental, along with experience in system integration and testing. Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills are essential to collaborate effectively and translate complex requirements into workable solutions. These skills ensure accurate system design, reliable sensor performance, and successful project execution in highly technical and multidisciplinary environments.

What are some common challenges faced by electro optical infrared sensor system engineers in cross-disciplinary project teams?

Electro Optical Infrared Sensor System Engineers often collaborate with specialists in fields such as software engineering, mechanical design, and systems integration. One common challenge is ensuring effective communication across disciplines, as technical requirements and constraints can differ significantly. Balancing system performance with size, weight, and power (SWaP) limitations is another frequent hurdle, especially when integrating sensors into complex platforms. Proactively participating in cross-functional meetings and developing a strong understanding of related engineering domains can help navigate these challenges and support successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Electro Optical Infrared Sensor System Engineer vs Optical Systems Engineer?

AspectElectro Optical Infrared Sensor System EngineerOptical Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in optical engineering, physics, or related fields; experience with sensor systemsBachelor's or higher in optical engineering, physics, or related fields; focus on optical design
Work EnvironmentDefense, aerospace, military applications involving sensor developmentConsumer electronics, telecommunications, scientific research involving optical systems
Employer & Industry UsageMilitary contractors, defense agencies, aerospace companiesTech companies, research institutions, manufacturing firms

Electro Optical Infrared Sensor System Engineers specialize in developing sensor systems for military and aerospace applications, focusing on infrared and electro-optical components. Optical Systems Engineers work across a broader range of optical design projects, often in commercial sectors. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, their work environments and industry focus differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Electro Optical Infrared Sensor System Engineer jobs?

For Electro Optical Infrared Sensor System Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Electro Optical Infrared Sensor System Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,091 per year, or $53.4 per hour.

Electro-Optical Engineer

El Segundo, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.
At the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country's space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration. With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions. Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD!
The Visible & Infrared Sensor Systems Department (VISSD), within the Sensing and Processing Subdivision (SPS) in MPD, is seeking an Electro-Optical Engineer to join our team of scientists and engineers that support the design and development of electro-optical (EO) sensor payloads and prototypes. VISSD expertise includes the following: concept definition and mission driven design synthesis of electro-optical space sensors, detailed characterization and performance analysis of visible and infrared (IR) image sensors, as well as the design, assembly, integration and test (AI&T) of ground and airborne prototype sensors. This expertise combined with additional in-house (MPD) laboratories, prototyping, performance modeling, and simulation capabilities, enables VISSD to deliver innovative solutions to our civil, commercial, and national space systems customers.
If you're passionate about sensors, data, and solving hard problems across a broad set of missions, join our team to help shape the future of space sensing.
The selected candidate will be required to work full time on-site at our facility at El Segundo, CA
What You'll Be Doing
  • Support activities involving a group of engineers supporting the development of visible and infrared sensor systems used for space surveillance, overhead persistent infrared systems, and Earth remote sensing applications for SSC, NRO and Civil Space programs
  • Provide and direct independent focal plane array (FPA) characterization activities as well as prototype sensor hardware design and AI&T
  • Work closely with program offices and customers to coordinate tasking, report progress, resolve technical issues, and assure project success

What You Need to be Successful - Member of Technical Staff
Minimum Requirements:
  • Degree (Bachelors, Master's, Ph.D.) from an accredited program in physics, electrical engineering, optics, astronomy, or another related field
  • Two or more years of industry related experience or time spent obtaining an advanced degree
  • Strong hardware, laboratory, data analysis, analytical, and software skills with a demonstrated ability to complete and/or lead engineering analysis tasks
  • Experience developing engineering analysis methods and tools using a primary computer programming language (e.g., Python, MATLAB, IDL or another appropriate language)
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to work interactively and effectively with customers and contractor personnel
  • This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for Senior Member of Technical Staff:
  • Four or more years of industry related experience or time spent obtaining an advanced degree
  • Demonstrated ownership of one or more technical projects from start to finish

How You Can Stand Out
It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:
  • Advanced (Master's or Ph.D.) degree from an accredited program in physics, electrical engineering, optics, astronomy, or another related field
  • Hands-on experience with visible and infrared remote sensing systems and/or hardware design and development activities
  • Proven ability to perform radiometric calibration of remote sensing systems
  • Strong foundation in semiconductor physics and device fabrication
  • Proficiency with mixed signal integrated circuit design and modeling
  • Technical skills in analog and/or digital board design and modeling
  • Working knowledge of optical alignments

We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.
(Min - Max)
$95,200.00 - $165,500.00
Pay Basis: Annual
Leadership Competencies
Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:
  • Operate Strategically
  • Lead Change
  • Engage with Impact
  • Foster Innovation
  • Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees
During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.
Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:
  • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
  • Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
  • Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
  • 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
  • Relocation assistance
  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
  • Education assistance programs
  • An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.
Equal Opportunity Commitment
The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.