Description

Leidos is a Fortune 500 science and technology leader driving innovative solutions for our customers in defense, intelligence, civil, and healthcare markets. The Ports and Borders division located in Vista CA is a dynamic organization at the forefront of security. We design and manufacture imaging and radiation detection systems for vehicle inspection and are seeking a talented Detector Scientist to contribute to our cutting-edge research and development efforts.

Job Summary:

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in X-ray production and detection and a proven ability to conduct cutting-edge research and development. This role involves leading the development of innovative X-ray imaging techniques and collaborating with cross-functional teams to bring new products and processes to market.

Responsibilities:

• Support the development and testing of X-ray imaging prototypes.

• Contribute to the design and planning of projects involving X-ray technologies, from concept through to completion

• Characterize sub-component performance including detector sensitivity, energy resolution, and spatial resolution.

• Work with multidisciplinary teams (engineers, scientists, business, etc.) to advance the development of Ports and Borders’ security systems.

Qualifications:

• PhD or master's degree in physics, engineering, or a related field with a strong focus on X-ray imaging

• 3-6 years of relevant experience (dependent on education).

• Experience with X-ray imaging applications (e.g., medical, industrial, security).

• Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of X-ray physics, x-ray production and detector principles.

• Experience in designing and characterizing X-ray detectors.

• Proficiency in data analysis and image processing techniques.

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in the field of vehicle and cargo scanning.

• Proficiency in systems engineering principles.

• Knowledge of x-ray production (X-ray tubes, Linac, Betatron).

• Experience with statistical data analysis and machine learning.

• Knowledge of radiation safety protocols and regulatory guidelines.

• Publication or patents related to X-ray technologies.

We Offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits package.

• Opportunities for professional growth and development.

• Collaborative and innovative work environment.

**If you are passionate about X-ray technology and eager to contribute to groundbreaking research, we encourage you to apply.**

Keywords: X-ray detector, scientist, imaging, research and development, detector design, image processing, data analysis, physics, electrical engineering, materials science, PhD.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:
October 8, 2025

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:
Pay Range $87,100.00 - $157,450.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

About Leidos

Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with 47,000 global employees, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2025. For more information, visit www.Leidos.com.

Pay and Benefits

Pay and benefits are fundamental to any career decision. That's why we craft compensation packages that reflect the importance of the work we do for our customers. Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement. More details are available at www.leidos.com/careers/pay-benefits.

Securing Your Data

Beware of fake employment opportunities using Leidos’ name. Leidos will never ask you to provide payment-related information during any part of the employment application process (i.e., ask you for money), nor will Leidos ever advance money as part of the hiring process (i.e., send you a check or money order before doing any work). Further, Leidos will only communicate with you through emails that are generated by the Leidos.com automated system - never from free commercial services (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail) or via WhatsApp, Telegram, etc. If you received an email purporting to be from Leidos that asks for payment-related information or any other personal information (e.g., about you or your previous employer), and you are concerned about its legitimacy, please make us aware immediately by emailing us at LeidosCareersFraud@leidos.com.

If you believe you are the victim of a scam, contact your local law enforcement and report the incident to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.