Senior Avionics Electrical Engineer – EO Systems

rocketlab; Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab Optical Systems in Chantilly, VA is seeking a Senior Electrical Engineer II to lead avionics hardware development for EO systems. You will own the complete lifecycle from requirements to test, collaborating with multiple engineering teams. Ideal candidates have a bachelor's in electrical/computer engineering, 8+ years in hardware design, FPGA/PCBA experience, and U.S.

citizenship for program requirements. Join a fast-paced, mission-driven environment shaping the future of space.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering or related field.
• 8+ years of electrical hardware design experience.
• Ability to translate blank page concepts into feasible designs.
• Experience with PCBA design involving FPGAs.
• Knowledge of processors, FPGAs, switching regulators, interfaces and analog instrumentation.
• Strong background in analog electronics design.
• Proficiency with circuit analysis using SPICE and Excel.
• U.S. citizenship is required for this program.

Responsibilities

• Own complete lifecycle of avionics hardware for EO system control.
• Lead architecture decisions to advance EO sensor capabilities across missions.
• Design and integrate complex electronics including FPGA, microcontroller, ADC/DAC, and VPX at module level.
• Develop payload designs with motor controllers, processing units, imagers, and cryptographic devices.
• Perform schematic capture and PCBA layout using Altium Designer.
• Develop PCBA requirements with systems, mechanical, thermal, optical and software teams.
• Plan and execute design verification testing and system integration testing; manage environmental qualification programs (EMI/EMC, TVAC, shock, vibration).
• Support failure analysis and root-cause investigations for units in test or on orbit.
• Provide mentorship to junior engineers and interface with suppliers and manufacturing partners.

Skills

Electrical hardware design

FPGA design

PCBA design

Analog electronics

SPICE analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering

Tools

Altium

Job description

Rocket Lab Optical Systems in Chantilly, VA is seeking a Senior Electrical Engineer II to lead avionics hardware development for EO systems. You will own the complete lifecycle from requirements to test, collaborating with multiple engineering teams. Ideal candidates have a bachelor's in electrical/computer engineering, 8+ years in hardware design, FPGA/PCBA experience, and U.S.

citizenship for program requirements. Join a fast-paced, mission-driven environment shaping the future of space.