EO/IR Payload Integration Engineer II

Rocketlab; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Tucson, AZ seeks an Integration & Test Engineer II to lead optical payload integration and testing for spaceborne sensors. The role emphasizes hands-on alignment, metrology, and environmental testing, interfacing with mechanical and electrical teams to ensure precise performance in space environments.

Candidates should have 2+ years in optical systems, strong data analysis, and readiness to work in a high-precision, defense-facing setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field.
• 2+ years of 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.

Responsibilities

• Lead integration, alignment, calibration, and verification for EO/IR optical payloads in spaceborne sensors.
• Perform hands‑on optical integration: bench setup, alignment, metrology, environmental readiness.
• Develop and refine test procedures, optical characterization methods, and validation processes.
• Support environmental tests (TVAC, vibe, shock) and monitor optical performance.
• Drive resolution of integration issues and test anomalies.
• Collaborate with Mechanical, Electrical, Systems, and AIT teams for seamless integration.
• Support customer reviews, data packages, and technical briefings.
• Identify opportunities to improve alignment methods, tooling, and data workflows.

Skills

Optical alignment

Metrology

Imaging-system characterization

Data analysis

Troubleshooting

Environmental testing

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering or Physics

Tools

Optical benches

Environmental test equipment

Job description

Rocket Lab in Tucson, AZ seeks an Integration & Test Engineer II to lead optical payload integration and testing for spaceborne sensors. The role emphasizes hands-on alignment, metrology, and environmental testing, interfacing with mechanical and electrical teams to ensure precise performance in space environments.

Candidates should have 2+ years in optical systems, strong data analysis, and readiness to work in a high-precision, defense-facing setting.