Head of Space Payloads Engineering

Rocket Lab; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab Optical Systems in Tucson, AZ seeks a Chief Principal Engineer to lead the design, development, and integration of next‑generation space‑based electro‑optical sensor systems. You will guide a multi‑disciplinary team through requirements, integration, testing, and sustainment to ensure mission success.

The role emphasizes building trusted government relationships, managing risks, and shaping proposals and technical volumes for future opportunities, with up to 25% travel and working in

Qualifications

• Active Secret/Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.
• Proven ability to deliver complex aerospace/defense systems on cost, schedule and performance.
• Prior experience as chief engineer or technical authority on a program of record or major defense contract.
• Experience leading large-scale proposals, including technical volumes and customer-facing reviews.
• Strong record of interfacing with senior government customers and building trusted technical relationships.
• Willingness to travel up to 25%.
• Comfort working in classified environments with sensitive program information.

Responsibilities

• Own the technical baseline for programs across systems engineering, hardware, software, and test.
• Chair program gate reviews from SRR through TRR.
• Direct development and integration of architectures spanning payload, ground systems, and mission operations.
• Oversee engineering performance to deliver on cost, schedule, and technical objectives.
• Enforce MBSE and Digital Engineering standards and processes.
• Manage risks and opportunities in the program Risk Register.

Skills

Security clearance

Technical authority

Proposal leadership

Senior government interface

Travel readiness

MBSE experience

Cross-discipline leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in technical discipline

Tools

MBSE tools

Job description

Rocket Lab Optical Systems in Tucson, AZ seeks a Chief Principal Engineer to lead the design, development, and integration of next‑generation space‑based electro‑optical sensor systems. You will guide a multi‑disciplinary team through requirements, integration, testing, and sustainment to ensure mission success.

The role emphasizes building trusted government relationships, managing risks, and shaping proposals and technical volumes for future opportunities, with up to 25% travel and working in