Chief Engineer, Space Payloads & Systems Architecture

Rocketlab

Tucson (AZ)

On-site

USD 180,000 - 240,000

Full time

5 days ago

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Job summary

Rocket Lab in Tucson, AZ seeks a Chief Principal Engineer for Space Payloads to lead the design, development and integration of next‑generation electro‑optical sensor systems. You will guide multi‑disciplinary teams from requirements to integration, ensuring mission success and advancing space capabilities.

The role requires 12+ years in technical leadership, active clearance, and proven delivery of defense/aerospace systems on time and within budget.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in technical discipline with 12+ years of professional experience.
Active Secret/Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.
Proven ability to deliver complex aerospace or defense systems on cost, on schedule, and to performance requirements.
Prior experience as a chief engineer or technical authority on a program of record or major defense contract.

Responsibilities

Own the technical baseline for programs: technical authority across systems engineering, hardware, software, and test.
Lead critical reviews: chair program gate reviews from SRR through TRR.
Shape system architecture: direct development and integration of architectures spanning payload, ground systems, and mission operations.
Guide execution: oversee engineering performance to meet cost, schedule, and technical objectives.
Mentor engineers and foster collaboration across disciplines.