Staff Computer Vision Engineer

Company DescriptioniMETALX, Inc. is creating a future where space is accessible and sustainable for all. We provide space domain awareness (SDA) and in-space servicing, assembly and manufacturing (ISAM) solutions for governments and commercial customers. Our work spans spacecraft autonomy (world view, perception, and controls) as well as testing and deploying software on real systems.We are building a small, high-impact team working on cross-domain applications that leverage state-of-the-art computer vision, machine learning, and autonomy. This includes both space applications (ISAM & SDA) and terrestrial analogs that use similar technologies. You will be joining at a stage where your ideas and ownership meaningfully shape the technical direction, culture, and impact of the company.Role Overview:We are seeking a Staff Computer Vision Engineer to design, implement, and optimize cutting-edge computer vision and machine learning algorithms for advanced RPOD, ISAM, and SDA applications. In this pivotal hands-on technical role, you will be responsible for leading the development of robust, production-quality perception systems that run on space and terrestrial platforms.This is a technical leadership role, with significant hands-on contributions. You should expect a significant portion of your time designing, implementing, and working on computer vision software, while also leading and mentoring a small team. In addition, you will work closely with the founding team to define our CV roadmap, architecture, and research strategy, while mentoring other CV engineers and collaborating across autonomy, controls, and systems engineering. Your expertise will guide cross-functional teams through the entire lifecycle of technology from concept through to deployment, ensuring that systems meet rigorous safety and performance standards.Key Responsibilities:Lead the design, implementation, and optimization of CV/ML algorithms in Python and C++ for perception tasks including reading and implementing recent research papersArchitect and enhance computer vision pipelines tailored specifically for RPOD, ISAM, and SDA mission requirementsChampion end-to-end software quality, including rigorous testing, debugging, performance profiling, and ensuring reliability along with considerations like robustness, scalability, and speed. Oversee and participate in software-in-the-loop (SIL) and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing to validate system performance in mission-like scenariosIntegrate CV modules with various simulation tools, customer interfaces, and other autonomous componentsMentor junior engineers and share knowledge to elevate team capabilities and drive best practices for software developmentStay abreast of the latest research and innovations in computer vision and applied ML, assessing which advancements could be integrated into our technologies, bringing forward ideas, tools, and open-source implementations that can accelerate our workWho You AreExpert programmer beyond just Python:Exceptional programming fundamentals and proficiency in additional languages such as C++, Rust, or CUDAAdept in navigating and enhancing larger, evolving codebases with version control (Git), automated testing, and CI/CD systemsDeeply experienced in taking projects from concept through implementation to deployment, showcasing extreme ownershipPossess strong analytical skills, able to succinctly convey complex problems and innovative solutionsOpen-minded and ambitious along with extreme ownership and end-to-end thinkingEmbrace challenging problems and iteratively refine "impossible" ideas while maintaining a focus on actionable outcomesValue lifelong learning and display genuine curiosity:Engage with newly published research and relevant technologies; able to articulate how recent advances could impact our workCulture-centric collaborator:Foster a culture of transparency, direct communication, and collaborative problem-solving within the teamThrives in a small, agile team environment where leadership and team support are equally valuedRecent, demonstrable experience implementing CV/ML algorithms yourself (not just overseeing them)Demonstrated experience taking projects from concept through implementation, testing, and deploymentAble to explain the hardest problems you've solved, how you evaluated success, and how you handle the gap between theory and implementationCommunicates clearly why something may not work, propose alternatives, and help converge on a viable pathRequirementsRequired Qualifications5+ years of professional experience in computer vision, machine learning, or software engineering with a proven track record of tackling hard problemsAdvanced programming expertise in Python and C++, including experience with deployment in production environmentsDeep understanding of modern CV architectures and methods. Significant experience with one or more areas of:Computer vision research/algorithms with publications, robotic perception, autonomous systems, drones or fields where consistent performance and reliability are criticalIn-depth knowledge of Linux and proficiency in modern software development practices (Git, code review processes, automated testing)Ability and willingness to work on-site in Sausalito, CAU.S. citizenship due to ITAR export-control restrictions. Only U.S. citizens are eligible for this positionPreferred QualificationsPrior experience with robotics, autonomous vehicles, or other SWaP-constrained systemsHands-on experience integrating with various simulation environments, cloud technologies, or complex APIsFamiliarity with CUDA, GPU acceleration techniques, or other performance optimization strategiesExperience with advanced perception frameworks and methodologiesElectrical Engineering, Robotics, and Hardware (Bonus)Knowledge in electrical engineering and robotics would be beneficial but not mandatory for this role. Valuable experiences include:Experience with embedded systems or hardware integration for perception and machine learning applicationsFamiliarity with a range of sensors such as LiDAR, IMUs, EO/IR cameras, and their associated calibration/integration methodsHands-on experience with SWaP-constrained platforms (e.g., NVIDIA Jetson, FPGAs, etc.)BenefitsCompetitive SalaryHealth Insurance/DentalPaid Time Off401kPerformance BonusEquity