Please note: this position can be hired at the Senior Systems Engineer II or Principal Systems Engineer level) WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: Collaborate with researchers on projects related to machine learning, artificial intelligence, and computer vision Perform rapid prototyping and enhanced development to support integration into operational systems Develop and modify simulations for the design, prototyping, integration, testing, and performance assessment of EO/IR sensor hardware and algorithms Contribute strong programming ability and technical judgment to develop robust solutions for real-world mission problems Validate, optimize, and deploy advanced exploitation algorithms, including algorithm design, implementation, analysis, testing, and optimization Guide and author data collection, analysis, and performance assessment software Decompose high-level customer requirements into EO/IR subsystem requirements to inform hardware, software, firmware, and systems engineering execution Collaborate closely with firmware development, electronics interface control, hardware engineering, software engineering, and systems engineering teams Design calibration and characterization experiments for EO/IR sensors, sensor models, and supporting test equipment Participate in engineering lab environments to test, verify, and validate sensor models and EO/IR sensor performance in accordance with requirements Use excellent investigative and troubleshooting skills to assess issues and develop resolutions in the lab and in the field Work proactively to complete tasks with little direction Communicate effectively with project management, customers, and team members across disciplines Attend technical interchange meetings with team members and other project personnel, and represent the organization in matters pertaining to project development Provide status on assigned tasks and program schedules Review documents and resolve technical engineering and integration issues Manage time and resources in order to meet assigned deadlines Support travel or off-site work, as needed Perform other duties as assigned YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS SENIOR SYSTEMS ENGINEER II: Bachelor’s degree in physics, optical sciences, science, or other technical discipline Active Secret/Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements 8+ years of professional experience Experience with Python and/or MATLAB for analysis, modeling, simulation, or algorithm development Experience with algorithm design, implementation, analysis, testing, and optimization Ability to contribute to the completion of program and project milestones YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS PRINCIPAL SYSTEMS ENGINEER: Bachelor’s degree in physics, optical sciences, science, or other technical discipline Active Secret/Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements 12+ years of professional experience Experience with Python and/or MATLAB for analysis, modeling, simulation, or algorithm development Experience with algorithm design, implementation, analysis, testing, and optimization Ability to contribute to the completion of program and project milestones THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: Master’s degree or PhD in Physics, optical sciences, science, or another technical discipline Hands-on expertise with electro-optical systems, infrared imaging systems, light sources, military systems, and/or space payloads Working knowledge of MATLAB, Python, and C++ computer languages, including computer interfacing techniques Knowledge of optical design and analysis tools such as Zemax, Code V, and FRED Expertise in modeling and simulation, including multiple EO/IR phenomenologies Subject matter expertise using MATLAB or Python for analysis of complex data sets Experience with space systems applications supporting customer programs Experience briefing analysis results to technical and non-technical government customers Experience across all phases of product development, including proposal design architectures, requirements generation, design development, integration, verification, and transition to production Experience managing or leading others in a technical and/or functional capacity within an engineering environment Excellent communication and documentation skills Experience in a dynamic and high-visibility role Team player incorporating a team-based success philosophy 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 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.