Menlo Park, CA Hybrid Employment

LeoLabs is hiring a Senior Physical Scientist

About the Role

The role involves conducting advanced analysis of space object characteristics, developing models to interpret radar returns, and supporting the expansion of space situational awareness capabilities through scientific research and data-driven methods.

Responsibilities

  • Analyze radar and optical observations to determine physical properties of satellites and debris
  • Develop and refine models for interpreting space object behavior and signatures
  • Collaborate with engineering teams to enhance data collection and processing systems
  • Publish findings in scientific journals and present at conferences
  • Support mission operations by providing expert analysis of space object events
  • Evaluate sensor performance and recommend improvements for data quality
  • Work with large datasets to identify trends and anomalies in orbital patterns
  • Contribute to the development of algorithms for object classification and characterization
  • Assist in defining requirements for future sensor deployments
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of the space object population and launch activities
  • Engage with external partners and stakeholders in the space community
  • Support technical documentation and reporting for internal and external use
  • Participate in on-call rotations for time-sensitive space events
  • Ensure scientific rigor in all analytical processes and outputs
  • Help mentor junior scientists and analysts

Nice to Have

  • Postdoctoral or industry experience in space science or remote sensing
  • Experience with radio frequency systems or radar data
  • Knowledge of machine learning applied to physical data
  • Familiarity with satellite operations or flight dynamics
  • Experience working in operational space environments
  • Track record of securing research funding or leading technical proposals
  • Involvement in international space research collaborations

Compensation

Competitive salary and benefits package

Work Arrangement

Hybrid work model with flexibility based on location and role needs

Team

Collaborative team environment focused on advancing space object tracking and space safety

About Us

  • We operate a global network of phased-array radars designed to track objects in low Earth orbit with high precision.
  • Our mission is to improve spaceflight safety by providing accurate, actionable data on space objects and collision risks.
  • We serve commercial, government, and scientific organizations working in Earth orbit.

Our Impact

  • We have tracked over 100,000 unique objects in orbit, contributing to collision avoidance for active satellites.
  • Our data supports space sustainability initiatives and debris mitigation strategies.
  • We provide critical information during break-up events and anomaly investigations.

Growth and Development

  • Opportunities for professional growth through technical leadership and innovation.
  • Support for attending conferences, publishing research, and continuing education.
  • Collaborative culture that values scientific integrity and technical excellence.

Available for qualified candidates

Relocating to Thailand?

Visa and work permit handled by experts

SVBL manages your entire visa process — from application to approval. Work permits, extensions, and compliance all covered. One partner for legal, immigration, and settling in.

Work permit processing
Visa extensions & renewals
Immigration compliance
Banking & housing guidance
Get free consultation
Free initial consultation
About company
LeoLabs
At LeoLabs, we’re building the living map of activity in space. Through our proprietary global radar network and AI-enabled analytics platform, we collect millions of measurements daily on more than 25,000 objects in low Earth orbit (LEO). Our radar-powered intelligence protects billions in assets, monitors adversarial behavior, and ensures safe operations for commercial and government missions. We’re not just building technology, we are redefining global security, safety, and transparency in space. As orbital activity accelerates and threats grow more complex, LeoLabs is a trusted partner for Space Domain Awareness, Space Traffic Management, and Satellite Operations for top-tier space operators and allied defense organizations.
All jobs at LeoLabs Visit website
Job Details
Department Catalog
Category other
Posted an hour ago