Lead Embedded Software Architect for Spacecraft Flight

Rocket Lab Corporation; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab Optical Systems in Tucson, AZ is seeking a Principal Embedded Software Engineer to design flight software for spacecraft advancing Tranche 3 of the Space Development Agency program.

You will lead cross-functional teams, mentor engineers, and define software architecture while working with accelerator technologies and high‑performance sensing systems. This is a collaborative role requiring US security clearance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering.
• 12+ years of embedded software engineering experience.
• Experience designing complex multithreaded applications.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Develop flight software for spacecraft in Space Systems programs.
• Deploy novel algorithms in Size/Weight/Power constrained sensor systems.
• Lead cross-functional teams to define requirements and deliver integrated solutions.
• Provide technical leadership from requirements through deployment.
• Define and influence software architecture, interfaces, and standards for scalable solutions.
• Drive core software fundamentals of performance‑oriented programming with accelerator technologies.
• Mentor engineers and foster a culture of engineering excellence.
• Support technical planning, estimation, risk identification, and milestone delivery with stakeholders.
• Be part of a team delivering bold space missions and making an impact.

Skills

Experience with embedded software

Multithreaded design

Security clearance eligibility

Education

Bachelor’s degree in computer science or computer engineering

Job description

Rocket Lab Optical Systems in Tucson, AZ is seeking a Principal Embedded Software Engineer to design flight software for spacecraft advancing Tranche 3 of the Space Development Agency program.

You will lead cross-functional teams, mentor engineers, and define software architecture while working with accelerator technologies and high‑performance sensing systems. This is a collaborative role requiring US security clearance.