Senior AI&T Engineer II/Principal - Optical
Rocket Lab's Optical Systems division is seeking a Senior AI&T Engineer II/Principal - Optical to join our team in Tucson, AZ. This role focuses on the integration, alignment, calibration, and verification of advanced electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) payloads that support national defense space missions. The position is hands-on and highly technical, involving optical bench setup, metrology, environmental test readiness, and performance validation. The successful candidate will collaborate with Mechanical, Electrical, and Systems Engineering teams to ensure precise optical performance throughout every integration and test phase.
Key responsibilities include leading integration, alignment, calibration, and verification activities for advanced EO/IR optical payloads used in spaceborne sensor systems. The engineer will execute hands-on optical integration tasks, such as optical bench setup, alignment, metrology, and environmental test readiness. Developing and refining test procedures, optical characterization methods, and performance-validation processes are also essential duties. Additionally, the role involves supporting environmental tests (thermal vacuum, vibration, shock), monitoring optical performance, and ensuring compliance with mission requirements. The engineer will drive the resolution of integration issues, test anomalies, and optical performance deviations, while working cross-functionally to ensure seamless optical-mechanical-electrical integration.
The ideal candidate for the Senior Engineer II position will have a bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field, along with U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance. A minimum of 8 years of experience in optical system integration, testing, or verification is required. Hands-on experience with optical alignment, metrology, interferometry, and imaging-system characterization is essential. Familiarity with optical benches, cleanroom practices, contamination control, and environmental testing is also necessary. Strong data analysis, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills are critical for success in this role.
Rocket Lab offers a dynamic and mission-driven company culture, providing opportunities to work on innovative optical systems for national defense. Employees engage in high-stakes, mission-critical projects and collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams. The company fosters an environment that thrives under pressure, works to tight deadlines, and focuses on delivering results. This role offers a hands-on technical experience in a growing field, contributing to the future of space exploration and national security.