Principal Optical Engineer

Rocket Lab USA; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab USA in Tucson, AZ is seeking a Principal Optical Engineer to develop detection and calibration algorithms for advanced electro-optical payloads. The role involves collaboration with firmware and optics teams, and candidates must possess 12+ years of experience in optical systems development.

U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain a security clearance are required. The position includes hands-on experience in optical alignment, data analysis, and utilizing relevant software such as MATLAB and Python.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience in optical systems development and data analysis.
• Hands-on experience with optical alignment and imaging-system characterization.
• U.S. citizenship with ability to obtain a security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Develop detection and calibration algorithms for optical systems.
• Collaborate closely with firmware and optical teams.
• Communicate effectively with project management and customers.

Skills

Data analysis

Troubleshooting

Problem-solving

Electro-optical systems

Optical alignment

Education

Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics or related field

Master's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics or related field

Tools

MATLAB

Python

Zemax

FRED

Job description

Principal Optical Engineer

Rocket Lab's Optical Systems division solves mission-critical space domain and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) challenges for Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community (IC) customers. The role is based at our Optical Systems site in Tucson, AZ, and involves modelling, simulation, prototyping, and characterization of advanced EO/IR payloads that support national defense space missions. Candidates will simulate electro‑optical phenomenology and demonstrate technology through first‑of‑its‑kind prototypes, using standard modeling tools and developing algorithms and radiometric analysis.

What you’ll get to do

• Guide or author data collection and analysis software
• Collaborate closely with firmware development, electronics interface control, and optical teams
• Use investigative and troubleshooting skills to assess issues and develop lab and field resolutions
• Communicate effectively with project management, customers, and multidisciplinary team members
• Attend technical interchange meetings and represent the organization on project matters
• Provide status updates on assigned tasks and program schedules
• Review documents and resolve technical engineering and integration issues
• Manage time and resources to meet assigned deadlines
• Develop detection and calibration algorithms for optical systems throughout their lifecycle
• Simulate all parts of the electro‑optical payloads, including radiometric, detector, and optical prescriptions
• Take initiative, identify problems, and present solutions as a self‑starter

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field
• U.S. citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance
• 12+ years of experience in optical systems development, performance modeling, and data analysis
• Hands‑on experience with optical alignment, metrology, interferometry, and imaging‑system characterization
• Hands‑on expertise with electro‑optical systems, imaging systems, light sources, and/or military/space payloads
• Strong data analysis, troubleshooting, and problem‑solving skills
• Working knowledge of MATLAB, Python, Zemax (or similar software), and FRED

Nice to have

• Master's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field (Ph.D. preferred)
• Experience with EO/IR payloads, infrared focal planes, or space‑based sensor systems
• Experience with stray light design and analysis for visible and infrared systems
• Experience writing alignment procedures, test scripts, and verification plans
• Experience with automated test equipment or optical STE
• Active TS/SCI U.S. Government Security Clearance

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.