WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: Lead integration, alignment, calibration, and verification activities for advanced EO/IR optical payloads used in spaceborne sensor systems Execute hands-on optical integration tasks including optical bench setup, alignment, metrology, and environmental test readiness—we build beautiful things Develop and refine test procedures, optical characterization methods, and performance-validation processes Support environmental tests (TVAC, vibe, shock), monitor optical performance, and ensure compliance with mission requirements Drive resolution of integration issues, test anomalies, and optical performance deviations—we hustle and we do the impossible Work cross-functionally with Mechanical, Electrical, Systems, and AIT teams to ensure seamless optical-mechanical-electrical integration Support customer reviews, data packages, and technical briefings Identify opportunities to improve alignment methods, test tooling, and data-analysis workflows YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS SENIOR ENGINEER II: Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field U.S. citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance 8+ years experience in optical system integration, test, or verification Hands-on experience with optical alignment, metrology, interferometry, and imaging-system characterization Familiarity with optical benches, cleanroom practices, contamination control, and environmental testing Strong data analysis, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS PRINCIPAL ENGINEER: Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field U.S. citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance 12+ years experience in optical system integration, test, or verification Hands-on experience with optical alignment, metrology, interferometry, and imaging-system characterization Familiarity with optical benches, cleanroom practices, contamination control, and environmental testing Strong data analysis, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: Experience with EO/IR payloads, infrared focal planes, or space-based sensor systems Experience writing alignment procedures, test scripts, and verification plans Experience with automated test equipment or optical STE Active TS/SCI U.S. Government Security Clearance ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing Must be physically able to commute to buildings Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise Ability to support hands-on alignment and test activities, including off-shift operations during critical phases Some travel to test facilities and partner integration sites WHAT TO EXPECT We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. Important information: FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable.