> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/1703388-engineer-i-focal-plane-test](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/1703388-engineer-i-focal-plane-test). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Engineer I - Focal Plane Test - **Company:** BAE Systems - **Location:** Boulder, CO, United States - **Experience:** Starter - **Salary:** $64,926.0 - $110,374.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** C (Programming Language), Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Systems Engineering, Microsoft Outlook, Software Debugging, Systems Analysis, Python (Programming Language), MATLAB, Ruby - **Published:** July 15, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.clearancejobs.com/jobs/9031098/engineer-i-focal-plane-test ## About the Role * BS degree or higher in Engineering or a related technical field is required. * Each higher-level degree, i.e., Master's Degree or Ph.D., may substitute for two years of experience. Related technical experience may be considered in lieu of education. Degree must be from a university, college, or school which is accredited by an agency recognized by the US Secretary of Education, US Department of Education. * Testing focal planes requires a blend of physics, electronics, optics, systems engineering, and hands-on lab skills. * Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools (such as Project, Excel, Outlook, and Word) * Good interpersonal skills and ability to work in and contribute to a dynamic cross-functional team environment. * Willingness to take initiative, be able to complete tasks in a timely manner, and have good time management and organizational skills., A security clearance or access with Polygraph is not required to be eligible for this position. However, the applicant must be willing and eligible for submission, depending on program requirements, after an offer is accepted and must be able to maintain the applicable clearance/access. * Knowledge of solid-state semiconductor detectors, including device physics, charge transport mechanisms, and performance-limiting noise sources. * Proficiency in computer program languages such as C, MatLab, Ruby, Python. ## Description Are you ready to develop the eyes of the next generation of space payloads? We are looking for a Detector Test Engineer to characterize and optimize cutting-edge electro-optical (EO) focal plane subsystems. This position is a creative and dynamic job opportunity where you'll work on a broad range of technologies, including ultraviolet, visible, near-infrared, short-wave infrared, mid-wave infrared, and long-wave infrared focal plane architectures. Your work will directly enable critical capabilities to achieve mission success across Civil, Defense, and Tactical applications. This position is for a Focal Plane Detector Test Engineer and will report to the Detector Technology Center of the Payload Engineering department within the Engineering, Science and Analysis (ESA) Strategic Capabilities Unit of BAE Systems Space and Missions Systems (SMS). The Engineering, Science and Analysis (ESA) Strategic Capabilities Unit comprises the technical talent and organizational leadership that enables the successful delivery of high-impact discriminating technologies for our customers' missions. Our collaborative, cross-functional teams are committed to innovation, integrity, continual learning and strong execution. What You'll Do: * Collaborate on a cross-functional team to develop and test low-noise focal plane detectors used in scientific and high-speed video space-based applications. * Develop design of experiments, test plans, and test procedures to validate focal plane performance, characterize devices, and debug operational issues. * Engage directly with focal planes, electronics hardware, and electro-optical (EO) test sets to perform hands-on comprehensive focal plane testing. * Perform focal plane system analysis, including radiometric (signal and noise, responsivity, dynamic range, photon transfer), spectral (bandpass performance, quantum efficiency), and spatial (MTF, pixel response uniformity) evaluations. * Maintain a regular and predictable work schedule. * Establish and maintain effective working relationships within the department, the Strategic Business Units, Strategic Capabilities Units and the Company. Interact appropriately with others in order to maintain a positive and productive work environment. * Perform other duties as necessary. ## Related Videos - [Developing the Rich Text Editor for DeepL.com](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1172-developing-the-rich-text-editor-for-deepl-com) - [Leveraging Large Language Models for Legacy Code Translation: Challenges and Solutions](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1157-leveraging-large-language-models-for-legacy-code-translation-challenges-and-solutions) - [Coffee with Developers: David Heinemeier Hansson](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/875-coffee-with-developers-david-heinemeier-hansson) - [Strange New Worlds: shaping the future of the digital age](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/677-strange-new-worlds-shaping-the-future-of-the-digital-age) - [Building a hypercar from scratch](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/607-building-a-hypercar-from-scratch) - [More efficient software for more efficient microchips](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1164-more-efficient-software-for-more-efficient-microchips) ## Related Articles - [Data Engineer Salary UK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/253-data-engineer-salary-uk) - [Software Engineer Salary London](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/252-software-engineer-salary-london) - [Is Software Engineering Hard?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/448-is-software-engineering-hard) - [Where to Find Entry-Level Software Engineering Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/397-where-to-find-entry-level-software-engineering-jobs) - [Software Engineer Career: Things You Should Know](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/143-software-engineer-career-things-you-should-know) - [Should senior developers refuse interview coding challenges?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/29-should-senior-developers-refuse-interview-coding-challenges)