Senior Engineer, Space Technologies, Disruptive Technologies Office

What the role is:

The Home Team Science and Technology Agency (HTX) is a statutory board under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) which aims to pioneer innovation solutions and develop world class science and technology capabilities to transform and empower the Home Team in delivering safety and security for Singapore. Disruptive Technologies Office (DTO) explores and conducts research and development in emerging scientific fields to uncover potential threats and discover transformative solutions for the Home Team. This role contributes to the research, development and engineering in the frontiers of an emerging and highly specialised domain of science and technology field(s). This includes space technologies and all its related sub‑domains, including satellite systems, satellite payloads, ground control systems and propulsion systems, space systems design, among others. The key contribution of this role is to perform technical R&D, prototype, develop and validate new technologies, and support mission applications involving space technologies. The role shall also identify both threats and opportunities in the domain and translate complex disruptive technologies, emerging AI and space-related technologies into operational capabilities that enhance Home Team operations.

What you will be working on:

Conduct R&D in space-related domains such as satellite imaging, remote sensing, communications systems, AI/ML for satellite imagery analysis. Design, prototype and test algorithms for object detection, change detection and anomaly identification. Evaluate and assess emerging sensor technologies, space systems design and/or AI architectures for operational applicability. Lead end-to-end management of space-related R&D and engineering projects, and/or work with experts to deliver such capabilities e.g. satellite imaging pilots, payload integration, ground station development etc. Define project scope, deliverables, timelines and budgets, and manage execution against agreed milestones. Track Technology Readiness Level (TRL) progression, risks and inter-agency dependencies. Plan and execute proof-of-concept trials, laboratory experiments or field experiments, including data collection, payload calibration, AI model benchmarking. Conduct data fusion between various satellite data sources. Provide engineering and AI technical oversight on system design, data pipelines and integration with operational systems. Work closely with AI engineers, data scientists and satellite systems vendors to develop automated analytics workflows. Liaise with government agencies, research institutes and industry partners (local and overseas) to align objectives and secure technical collaborations. research papers, technical reports and project documentation. Maintain well‑documented, reproducible codebases and experimental records in accordance with engineering and research best practices.

What we are looking for:

Tertiary education including Masters or PhDs with research experience or equivalent in terms of years of experience in research and developmental work, preferably in Aerospace Engineering, but other relevant disciplines are also acceptable e.g. Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, AI/ML, Systems Engineering etc., or equivalent work or industry experience in lieu of the degree. Minimally 3‑5 years’ work in engineering or AI‑driven R&D projects. Familiarity with tools like Python, Tensorflow/PyTorch, QGIS or STK. Experience with EO/SAR data analysis, AI model development or payload simulation is preferred. Demonstrated experience in managing complex technical projects. Strong analytical and experimental mindset, with ability to translate research into practical outcomes. Strong curiosity and willingness to learn and apply skills across disciplines. Ready to dive deep in Science & Tech domains with foundational skills and knowledge to conduct research and experimentation. ****** All new hires are appointed on a two‑year contract in the first instance and will be assessed and considered for permanent tenure over time, based on performance. As part of the shortlisting process for this role, you may be required to complete a medical declaration and/or undergo further assessment. All applicants will be updated on the status of their applications within 4 weeks upon closing of the advertisement.

About Home Team Science and Technology Agency (HTX)

HTX is the world’s first Science and Technology agency that integrates a diverse range of scientific and engineering capabilities to innovate and deliver transformative and operationally‑ready solutions for homeland security. As a statutory board of the Ministry of Home Affairs and integral to the Home Team, HTX works at the forefront of science and technology to empower Singapore’s frontline of security. Our shared mission is to amplify, augment and accelerate the Home Team’s advantage and secure Singapore as the safest place on planet earth.