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Sensor Scientist Jobs in Springfield, VA (NOW HIRING)

GRVTY

Technical Scientist - SME

Springfield, VA · On-site

$150K - $235K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Design, implement, and evaluate algorithms for EO/IR sensor and camera system performance ... Bachelor's degree in Image Science, Engineering, Applied Physics, Atmospheric Science, Applied ...

GRVTY

Senior Scientist with Security Clearance

Herndon, VA · On-site

$94K - $128K/yr

Design, implement, and evaluate algorithms for EO/IR sensor and camera system performance ... Bachelor's degree in Image Science, Engineering, Applied Physics, Atmospheric Science, Applied ...

GRVTY

Senior Scientist with Security Clearance

Herndon, VA · On-site

$94K - $128K/yr

Design, implement, and evaluate algorithms for EO/IR sensor and camera system performance ... Bachelor's degree in Image Science, Engineering, Applied Physics, Atmospheric Science, Applied ...

GRVTY

Imagery Scientist (EO)- Expert

Falls Church, VA · On-site +1

$180K - $210K/yr

Sensor phenomenology * Image formation processes * Exploit imagery to identify and locate objects ... Scientific workflows * Automated processing techniques * Utilize advanced processing tools ...

GRVTY

Imagery Scientist (EO)- Expert

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$180K - $210K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Sensor phenomenology * Image formation processes * Exploit imagery to identify and locate objects ... Scientific workflows * Automated processing techniques * Utilize advanced processing tools ...

IC-CAP LLC

Senior SAR Image Scientist 100-011

Springfield, VA · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

Sensor modeling; decomposing product formation elements to quantify the overall quality of the ... Degree in Image Science, Electrical Engineering, or Physics * 12 years of experience with a BS/BA ...

BAE Systems

Scientist Sr

Quantico, VA · On-site

$86K - $146K/yr

Provide imagery science support specifically related to the exploitation of imagery of the following sensor disciplines: Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), Thermal Infrared, Spectral, or Geospatial to ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsSensor Scientist JobsSensor Scientist Jobs in Springfield, VA

Sensor Scientist information

See Springfield, VA salary details

$52.7K

$116.3K

$143.6K

How much do sensor scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for sensor scientist in Springfield, VA is $116,301.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,700.00 and $143,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sensor scientist?

Sensor Scientists are professionals who research, design, develop, and test sensors used to detect and measure physical properties such as temperature, pressure, motion, light, or chemical composition. They work in a variety of industries including electronics, automotive, environmental monitoring, healthcare, and manufacturing. Sensor Scientists often collaborate with engineers to improve existing sensor technology or create new types of sensors for specialized applications. Their work involves both theoretical analysis and hands-on experimentation to enhance sensor performance, reliability, and integration into systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sensor scientist, and why are they important?

A Sensor Scientist typically needs a solid background in physics, chemistry, or engineering, along with experience in sensor design, data analysis, and a relevant advanced degree. Familiarity with analytical tools, simulation software, and laboratory instrumentation is crucial, and certifications in areas like instrumentation or materials science can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for excelling in this field. These competencies enable Sensor Scientists to innovate, accurately interpret sensor data, and collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges sensor scientists face when developing new sensor technologies?

Sensor Scientists often encounter challenges such as ensuring sensitivity and accuracy of new sensors while maintaining cost-effectiveness and scalability for manufacturing. Integrating sensors with existing hardware and software platforms can also be complex, requiring close collaboration with engineers and data scientists. Additionally, staying up-to-date with rapidly evolving materials and technology standards is crucial, as is navigating regulatory requirements for safety and environmental impact.

What is the difference between Sensor Scientist vs Sensor Engineer?

AspectSensor ScientistSensor Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a master's or Ph.D. in physics, chemistry, or materials scienceUsually holds a bachelor's or master's in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, or R&D departmentsManufacturing facilities, product development teams, or engineering firms
Primary FocusDeveloping new sensor materials and understanding sensor phenomenaDesigning, testing, and implementing sensor systems for practical applications
Industry UsageResearch and development, academia, specialized industriesElectronics, automotive, aerospace, consumer devices

Sensor Scientists focus on researching and developing new sensor materials and understanding sensor behavior, often working in labs or academic settings. Sensor Engineers apply this knowledge to design and implement sensor systems in real-world products and applications. While both roles require technical expertise, their work environments and primary objectives differ.

How to become a sensor scientist?

To become a sensor scientist, typically a bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, chemistry, or a related field is required, with many roles favoring a master's or Ph.D. in sensor technology, materials science, or electrical engineering. Developing skills in data analysis, instrumentation, and sensor design, along with experience using tools like MATLAB or LabVIEW, is also important. Gaining practical experience through internships or research projects can enhance job prospects in this specialized field.

What are popular job titles related to Sensor Scientist jobs in Springfield, VA?

For Sensor Scientist jobs in Springfield, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Sensor Scientist jobs in Springfield, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Sensor Scientist jobs in Springfield, VA are:

What cities near Springfield, VA are hiring for Sensor Scientist jobs?

Cities near Springfield, VA with the most Sensor Scientist job openings:

Sensor Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sensor Scientist job openings in Springfield, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,301 per year, or $55.9 per hour.

Technical Scientist - SME

GRVTY

Springfield, VA • On-site

$150K - $235K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

What Impact You'll Have
GRVTY is looking for a Senior Scientist to support research, algorithm development, and advanced analytics for overhead persistent infrared and electro-optical/infrared sensing systems. This is a technically demanding role centered on OPIR phenomenology, optical signature characterization, and sensor performance analysis in direct support of national security missions at a Customer site in Herndon, Virginia.
You will work alongside algorithm engineers, data scientists, and intelligence analysts to develop and apply physics-based models, image science methods, and multi-platform remote sensing analytics. The work is fast-paced and mission-driven - requirements shift, collection windows are finite, and the analysis you produce informs real decisions. We are looking for someone who has done this work before, can operate with autonomy, and brings enough depth in OPIR to hit the ground running.
What You'll be Owning
  • Lead research and development of advanced algorithms for OPIR and EO/IR remote sensing systems, with emphasis on target detection, tracking, location, and characterization.
  • Design, implement, and evaluate algorithms for EO/IR sensor and camera system performance - including noise modeling, radiometric calibration, and sensitivity analysis.
  • Analyze optical signature data to extract target phenomenology, characterize signatures, and generate technically rigorous intelligence insights.
  • Conduct multi-platform remote sensing analytics across varied sensors, collection geometries, and data streams.
  • Support the full TCPED process for OPIR - from tasking and collection planning through exploitation and dissemination.
  • Review and validate analytic products for technical accuracy and mission relevance; identify gaps and recommend improvements.
  • Maintain detailed, reproducible analysis logs documenting workflows, assumptions, methodologies, and results.
  • Respond to real-time EO/IR analysis requests and adapt quickly to evolving mission priorities.
  • Test and evaluate emerging algorithms, exploitation tools, and analytic platforms; contribute to trade studies and capability assessments.
  • Prepare and deliver technical briefings, findings, and written reports to customer and program stakeholders.
  • Mentor junior analysts; contribute to analytic standards and methodology development across the team.

What You Must Have
  • Active Top Secret clearance with ability to obtain SCI and CI polygraph.
  • Bachelor's degree in Image Science, Engineering, Applied Physics, Atmospheric Science, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related field.
  • 5+ years of hands-on OPIR experience, with demonstrated work in EO/IR phenomenology, optical signature analysis, or sensor performance assessment.
  • Experience with image processing and digital signal processing tools for short-wave and mid-wave infrared data.
  • Experience applying algorithms for target detection and background suppression in OPIR or EO/IR contexts.
  • Familiarity with multi-data stream ingest and analysis techniques.
  • Working knowledge of the TCPED process as applied to OPIR collection and exploitation.
  • Strong documentation and communication skills - you will be writing technical reports and briefing customers, not just doing the analysis.
  • Able to work independently and manage priorities without significant hand-holding.

What Would be Nice to Have
  • Master's degree in Image Science, Engineering, Applied Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a related field.
  • Direct experience with optical signature modeling and EO/IR phenomenology characterization.
  • Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, IDL, or C/C++ for algorithm development or data analysis.
  • Experience with geospatial and exploitation tools such as ArcGIS, Google Earth, Opticks, or Palette.
  • Background in radiometric calibration, sensor noise modeling, or end-to-end sensor performance modeling.
  • Experience supporting collection planning and requirements definition for remote sensing systems.
  • Familiarity with AI/ML-enhanced analytics as applied to remote sensing or signature exploitation.
  • Prior experience in a defense or intelligence community environment supporting classified programs.

Pay Range: At GRVTY, we understand that compensation is influenced by many factors-such as geographic location, federal contract labor categories, wage rates, prior experience, skillsets, education, and certifications.
We're proud to offer a work environment that empowers our team to achieve a strong work-life balance. GRVTY provides competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and meaningful opportunities for professional growth.
Our benefits package is designed to support the well-being of our employees and their families, and includes coverage in areas such as healthcare, financial wellness, retirement planning, family assistance, continued education, and paid time off.
Virginia Pay Range
$150,000-$235,000 USD
Why Choose GRVTY
The toughest national security challenges demand vision and ingenuity, not just resources. We deliver mission and technical expertise to outpace our adversaries. We're purpose-built to tackle the most entrenched, systemic national security issues around the world.
We partner with our customers to help them overcome challenges in every corner of technology and defense-including the ones still being explored. Our growing capabilities create complementary advantages, giving on-the-ground operations the edge they need to succeed. We muster everything we have to answer every challenge presented, every day of our lives.
At GRVTY, we believe that when our employees thrive, our company thrives. That's why we offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and work-life balance.
• Robust health plan including medical, dental, and vision
• Health Savings Account with company contribution
• Annual Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• 401k with generous company match
• Training and Development Opportunities
• Award Programs
• Variety of Company Sponsored Events
EEO Statement
GRVTY, is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
Anyone requiring reasonable accommodations should email recruiting@grvty.com or call 703-544-7930 with requested details. A member of the HR team will respond to your request within 2 business days.
Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal (eeoc.gov)
Please review our current job openings and apply for the positions you believe may be a fit. If you are not an immediate fit, we will also keep your resume in our database for future opportunities.

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