Lead Avionics Engineer, Space Optics

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

Job summary

Rocket Lab’s Space Systems division in Tucson, AZ seeks a Principal Electrical Engineer to lead avionics hardware development for electro-optical systems. You will drive architecture, verification, and production readiness, collaborating with cross-discipline teams to deliver space-ready electronics.

The role requires deep expertise in FPGA-based designs, radiation-tolerant electronics, and Altium design, with a track record of leading rigorous design reviews and supplier engagements.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in electrical engineering or related field.
• At least 12+ years in electrical hardware design for aerospace/high-reliability env.
• Experience with FPGA, mixed-signal circuits, and radiation-hardening concepts.
• Proven leadership on complex avionics/space programs.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership for the full lifecycle of avionics hardware for EO systems.
• Drive system architecture and technology roadmaps for EO sensors across orbital domains.
• Oversee design and integration of complex electronics (FPGA, MCU, ADC/DAC, VPX).
• Architect payload-level designs integrating controllers, imagers, and cryptographic devices; mentor teams.
• Establish standards for schematic capture and PCBA layout; lead critical design reviews.
• Lead PCBA verification, validation, and environmental qualification activities.

Skills

Electrical hardware

FPGA design

System integration

Altium Designer

Radiation effects

SPICE/MATLAB

Leadership

Education

Master’s in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Altium Designer

ECAD tools

Oscilloscopes/ LabEquipment

Job description

Rocket Lab’s Space Systems division in Tucson, AZ seeks a Principal Electrical Engineer to lead avionics hardware development for electro-optical systems. You will drive architecture, verification, and production readiness, collaborating with cross-discipline teams to deliver space-ready electronics.

The role requires deep expertise in FPGA-based designs, radiation-tolerant electronics, and Altium design, with a track record of leading rigorous design reviews and supplier engagements.