Staff / Sr Staff Numerical Algorithm Software Engineer

About this role

SciTec, a wholly owned subsidiary of Firefly Aerospace, is a dynamic non-traditional defense contractor that delivers advanced technologies in support of U.S. National Security and Defense. For the past forty-five plus years, we have supported Department of Defense customers by developing innovative remote sensing algorithms, tools, and techniques to deliver world-class data exploitation capabilities supporting missile defense; intelligence, surveillance, & reconnaissance; space domain awareness; and aircraft survivability missions. Important Notice: SciTec exclusively works on U.S. government contracts that require U.S. citizenship for all employees. SciTec cannot sponsor or assume sponsorship of employee work visas of any type. Further, U.S. citizenship is a requirement to obtain and keep a security clearance. Applicants that do not meet these requirements will not be considered. SciTec has immediate opportunities for talented software & algorithm developers and engineers to support programs focusing on low-latency data processing, fusion, and tracking algorithms for exploitation of remote sensing systems. Our ideal candidate will work well in multiple software languages as part of a rapid pace, collaborative, small-team environment consisting of Scientists, Engineers, and Developers and be able to prototype and develop advanced algorithms leading to eventual integration in C++ on Linux operating systems as part of government frameworks. Responsibilities Lead the research, development, and maturation of advanced numerical algorithms for remote sensing data exploitation across multi-modal sensor systems (e.g., EO/IR, SAR, RF) Design, implement, and optimize high-performance algorithms in Python and C++, with a focus on scalability, efficiency, and operational robustness in mission environments Architect and develop end-to-end signal processing, image processing, and data exploitation pipelines from prototype through production deployment Advance modeling, simulation, and machine learning toolchains, including development of reusable frameworks and infrastructure to support algorithm evaluation and integration Define and execute quantitative performance assessments of algorithms and sensor systems, including error characterization, sensitivity analysis, and validation against real-world data Collaborate cross-functionally with software engineers, system architects, and mission stakeholders to integrate algorithms into operational systems and ensure mission alignment Provide technical leadership within Agile development teams, including mentoring junior engineers, driving best practices, and contributing to shared codebases and tools Support proposal efforts, technical roadmaps, and customer engagements by articulating algorithmic approaches and differentiators Ensure compliance with mission assurance, security, and software quality standards applicable to DoD environments Other duties as assigned Requirements Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Applied Mathematics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field 2+ years of experience developing numerical algorithms for signal processing, image processing, or sensor data exploitation Demonstrated expertise in developing and implementing algorithms in Python and C++ Strong foundation in numerical methods, linear algebra, probability/statistics, and optimization techniques Experience working with real-world sensor data (e.g., EO/IR, SAR, RF, or multi-modal systems) Proven ability to evaluate algorithm performance, including error analysis, validation, and benchmarking Experience working in Linux-based development environments and modern software development practices (version control, testing, CI/CD) Ability to work effectively in Agile or iterative development environments Strong written and verbal communication skills, including ability to convey complex technical concepts to diverse stakeholders U.S. Citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance (active clearance preferred) Candidates who have any of the following skills will be preferred PhD in Applied Mathematics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field Experience with advanced signal/image processing techniques (e.g., detection, tracking, estimation, inverse problems, or computer vision) Familiarity with machine learning frameworks and integration of ML models into operational pipelines Experience optimizing algorithms for performance (e.g., parallel computing, GPU acceleration, memory optimization) Knowledge of DoD or Intelligence Community mission systems, especially related to remote sensing or space-based sensors Experience transitioning algorithms from research/prototype to production/operational environments Familiarity with containerization and orchestration technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes) Experience with modeling and simulation environments supporting sensor system development Prior experience leading technical efforts or mentoring junior engineers Active DoD security clearance *Resumes, Cover Letters, and Applications which are generated by AI will not be considered for employment Colorado Residents: In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information. Benefits SciTec offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package, including: 4% Safe Harbor 401(k) match 100% company paid HSA Medical insurance, with a choice of 2 buy-up options 80% company paid Dental insurance 100% company paid Vision insurance 100% company paid Life insurance 100% company paid Long-term Disability insurance 100% company paid Hospital Indemnity insurance Voluntary Accident and Critical Illness insurance Short-term Disability insurance Annual Profit-Sharing Plan Discretionary Performance Bonus Paid Parental Leave Generous Paid Time Off, including Holiday, Vacat