Calibration Engineer

This role is for one of Weekday’s clients

Min Experience: 4+ years
Location: India
JobType: full-time

We are seeking an experienced Calibration Engineer to develop, implement, and validate calibration methodologies for high-precision camera and optical imaging systems, particularly in the space industry. The role focuses on achieving optimal image quality and geometric precision through camera calibration, optical characterisation, system integration, and performance verification.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in space-quality engineering, hands-on experience with optical or optomechanical assemblies, and a deep understanding of camera models, calibration algorithms, and imaging systems. This position requires strong analytical and mathematical skills, along with the ability to work across mechanical, optical, hardware, and software domains.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

1. Camera Calibration and Optical Characterisation

• Develop, implement, and validate calibration algorithms to ensure the accuracy and performance of camera and imaging systems.
• Participate in pre-flight calibration activities, including geometric, spatial, and radiometric calibration, aberration characterisation, and stray-light testing.
• Develop new test systems and critical optical components to meet calibration and testing requirements.
• Perform lens characterisation and evaluate optical performance, including Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) measurements.
• Analyse calibration results to identify performance deviations and recommend corrective actions.

2. Payload Integration and System Alignment

• Lead and support the alignment and integration of optical payloads with spacecraft buses.
• Ensure optical and optomechanical assemblies meet design specifications and system-level performance requirements.
• Collaborate with mechanical, hardware, software, and optical engineering teams to resolve integration challenges.
• Support commissioning activities and in-flight calibration to maintain imaging accuracy throughout the mission lifecycle.

3. Calibration Software and Data Analysis

• Develop and deploy software tools for calibrating and testing imaging systems.
• Apply image processing techniques and programming skills to analyse calibration results and improve system performance.
• Analyse large volumes of engineering and imaging data to support technical decisions and provide guidance to engineering teams.
• Use mathematical models and calibration algorithms to evaluate geometric accuracy, image quality, and system performance.

4. Quality Assurance and Verification

• Assist the Quality Assurance team in defining milestone-based checks and verification procedures for optical payloads.
• Prepare test plans, procedures, and reports for environmental tests conducted on spacecraft systems.
• Support the verification of payload performance against design specifications and applicable quality standards.
• Ensure calibration activities and technical documentation meet relevant requirements established by space agencies and industry organisations.

5. Testing and Continuous Improvement

• Work in optical laboratories and use optical metrology tools to measure and validate system performance.
• Troubleshoot and optimise mechanical, hardware, and software systems to improve calibration accuracy.
• Consider thermal properties, space-qualified materials, and adhesives when evaluating optical and optomechanical assemblies.
• Contribute to engineering decisions through rigorous data interpretation, testing, and performance analysis.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor's or master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Quality Engineering, or a related discipline, supported by relevant industry experience.
• Minimum 4 years of experience in space-quality engineering, including hands-on work with optical or optomechanical assemblies.
• Strong understanding of camera technology, imaging systems, camera models, and calibration algorithms.
• Experience in camera calibration, optical design principles, lens characterisation, and image quality evaluation.
• Knowledge of Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) and optical performance measurement techniques.
• Strong analytical and mathematical skills, with the ability to interpret complex engineering data.
• Experience with mechanical, hardware, and software troubleshooting and optimisation.
• Ability to read, interpret, and analyse technical specifications, engineering data, and design documents.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear technical reports and test documentation.

Must-Have Skills

• Camera Calibration
• Optical Design
• Modulation Transfer Function (MTF)

Good-to-Have Skills

• Optical Metrology
• Lens Characterisation
• Software Development

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience working in an optical laboratory and familiarity with optical metrology instruments.
• Programming experience in C++, MATLAB, or Python for calibration, image processing, and engineering analysis.
• Knowledge of thermal properties, space-qualified materials, and adhesives used in spacecraft assemblies.
• Experience preparing test plans, procedures, and reports for spacecraft environmental testing.
• Familiarity with quality standards and requirements defined by space agencies and relevant industry organisations.