Principal EO/IR Image-Analysis Engineer (Real-Time Payloads)

Rocket Lab Corporation; Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 198,000 - 264,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Chantilly, VA seeks a Principal Algorithm Engineer specializing in EO/IR image analysis. You will lead development, validation, and deployment of advanced image-processing pipelines for space payloads, collaborating across ML, optical design, and vehicle modeling teams.

Expect hands-on algorithm work and cross-disciplinary collaboration on mission-critical systems. The role requires strong Python and C/C++ skills, experience with graphics/vision algorithms, and the ability to

Qualifications

• Must have strong image processing or EO/IR experience.
• Proven ability to design, implement, test, and optimize algorithms.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop, validate, and deploy EO/IR image-processing algorithms.
• Collaborate with ML, optical design, and simulation teams.
• Transition algorithms to real-time space payload implementations.
• Analyze large EO/IR datasets and report results to stakeholders.
• Support and travel for program milestones as needed.

Skills

EO/IR image processing

Python

Image processing algorithms

Machine learning

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree with 12+ years experience

Master's degree with 8+ years experience

PhD with 5+ years experience

Tools

C/C++

MATLAB

CUDA / GPU acceleration

Job description

Rocket Lab in Chantilly, VA seeks a Principal Algorithm Engineer specializing in EO/IR image analysis. You will lead development, validation, and deployment of advanced image-processing pipelines for space payloads, collaborating across ML, optical design, and vehicle modeling teams.

Expect hands-on algorithm work and cross-disciplinary collaboration on mission-critical systems. The role requires strong Python and C/C++ skills, experience with graphics/vision algorithms, and the ability to