Astrophysics Research Scientist

Title:
Astrophysics Research Scientist

Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR!

KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the intelligence and national security communities. In this position, your work will have a profound impact on the country's most critical role - protecting our national security.

Why Join Us?

• Innovative Projects: KBR's work is at the forefront of engineering, logistics, operations, science, program management, mission IT and cybersecurity solutions.

• Collaborative Environment: Be part of a dynamic team that thrives on collaboration and innovation, fostering a supportive and intellectually stimulating workplace.

• Impactful Work: Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national security and shape the future of space defense.

We are seeking a highly motivated and technically skilled Astrophysics Research Scientist to support the United States Space Force (USSF) and Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) under the PUEO contract. The ideal candidate will contribute to advanced research and development efforts in stellar astrophysics, image simulation, sensor integration, and space domain awareness (SDA) technologies. This role involves collaboration across multidisciplinary teams and direct engagement with government stakeholders.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge SDA research and development in a collaborative, mission-driven environment. You'll work alongside experts in astrophysics, engineering, and software development to advance national security capabilities in space.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct research and development in image simulation, optical/IR spectroscopy, and sensor data analysis.
• Support the deployment, integration, and testing of operational sensors and simulation engines.
• Develop and validate algorithms for object detection, photometry, and real-time error handling.
• Lead efforts in scene simulation modeling, including lunar sky-foreground and atmospheric condition analysis.
• Contribute to the modernization of telescope systems and scheduling applications.
• Provide documentation, training materials, and source code for developed software and algorithms.
• Collaborate with government and contractor teams under ACA/Interface Agreements.
• Support environmental, safety, and health compliance at high-altitude observatory sites (e.g., AMOS).
• Participate in program planning, milestone reviews, and technical reporting.

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Astrophysics, Physics, or related field (completed or near completion).
• Demonstrated research experience in the space domain.
• Experience with high-resolution spectroscopy and astronomical instrumentation.
• Strong background in data analysis, algorithm development, and simulation modeling.
• Familiarity with telescope operations, sensor calibration, and observational astronomy.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including scientific publication and presentation experience.
• Ability to work at high-altitude observatory sites and potential travel to CONUS/OCONUS locations as needed.
• Ability to obtain a TS/SCI security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with infrared and near-infrared instrumentation.
• Prior work with government research programs or military observatories.
• Knowledge of DevOps frameworks and version control systems.
• Experience with machine learning applications in astronomy or image processing.

Compensation:

The offered rate will be based on the selected candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities and/or experience and in consideration of internal parity.

KBR may offer bonuses, commissions, or other forms of compensation to certain job titles or levels, per internal policy or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be in the form of sign on bonus, relocation benefits, short term incentives, long term incentives, or discretionary payments for exceptional performance.

KBR Benefits

KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you're excited about making a significant impact in the field of space defense and working on projects that matter, we encourage you to apply and join our team at KBR. Let's shape the future together.

Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR

At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team's philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver - Together.

KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.