Satellite Systems Research and Engineering - NRO

Satellite Systems Research and Engineering - NRO

Researchers will apply their expertise to advance projects that will enable the Directorate of Science and Technology’s ability to maintain strategic Space advantage in a rapidly changing world of emerging and disruptive technologies.

• Full-Time
• *Higher starting salary possible depending on experience level
• Aerospace engineering, imagery science, optical engineering, remote sensing
• Opportunities for domestic travel are possible
• U.S. citizens (dual U.S. citizens also eligible)
• At least 18 years of age
• Willing to move to the Washington, DC area
• Able to complete security and medical evaluations

As a Researcher within CIA’s Directorate of Science and Technology (DS&T) serving at the National Reconnaissance Office, you will apply your deep technical expertise to advancing research projects that will enable our ability to maintain strategic Space advantage in a rapidly changing world of emerging and disruptive technologies (EDTs).

DS&T Researchers typically conduct research in their field, while also managing a research portfolio of projects conducted by others (contractors, National and Federal Laboratories, and academic institutions, including University Affiliated Research Centers). Successful researchers work across the spectrum of technical readiness levels (technology maturity), applying cutting-edge research to today’s mission, while keeping the Agency well positioned for the future. DS&T Researchers identify and mitigate risks and threats from adversarial use of EDTs while also developing ways to use EDTs to shape the future of technical collection of foreign intelligence.

Who You’ll Work With

At the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), we recognize our Nation’s strength comes from the diversity of its people. People from a broad range of backgrounds and viewpoints work at CIA, and our diverse teams are the reason we can keep our country safe.

Our benefits support every aspect of a working professional’s life, including health and wellness, time off, family, finances, and continuing education. Our programs include highly sought-after government health benefits, flexible schedules, sick leave, and childcare. In some cases, we also offer sign-on incentives and cover moving expenses if you relocate.

As a CIA employee, you’ll also get the satisfaction of knowing your work is part of something bigger than yourself. Our work is driven by one mission: to keep our Nation safe. Every day is an opportunity to enhance U.S. national security.

Minimum Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in one of the following fields or related studies (or comparable work experience):
  • Aerospace engineering
  • Chemical engineering
  • Chemistry
  • Computer engineering
  • Computer science
  • Data science and analytics
  • Electrical engineering
  • Imagery science
  • Mathematics
  • Mechanical engineering
  • Optical engineering
  • Optical science
  • Physical sciences
  • Physics
  • Remote sensing/GIS
• Demonstrated interest in applying technology to solve challenging problems
• Demonstrated ability to write clear, concise text
• Willingness to travel domestically
• Experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Artificial intelligence
  • Battery and power technology
  • Data engineering
  • Data science
  • Digital signal processing design and programming
  • Field programmable gate arrays (FPGA)
  • High performance computing
  • Imagery science
  • Machine learning
  • Mission assurance
  • Power systems
  • Programming
  • Project/program management
  • Propulsion
  • Radiation hardening
  • RF communications
  • RF waveform design
  • Satellite bus and payload – power, structures, electronics, command/control, etc.
  • Satellite communications
  • Signal processing and analysis
  • Solar technology
  • Systems architecting
  • Systems engineering