Senior Optical Systems Engineer – Space Payloads

Rocket Lab; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 100,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab is looking for a Senior Optical Engineer II or Principal to join their Optical Systems division in Tucson, Arizona. The role involves guiding the development of space-based optical systems, working closely on data analysis and troubleshooting issues. Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering or related fields and significant experience in optical systems. U.S. citizenship is required to maintain security clearance. Rocket Lab offers a collaborative and innovative environment focused on space technology advancements.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in optical systems development, performance modeling, and data analysis for Senior Optical Engineer II.
• 12+ years of experience for Principal Optical Engineer, with similar background.
• Hands-on experience with optical alignment, metrology, interferometry, and imaging-system characterization.

Responsibilities

• Guide and author data collection and analysis software.
• Collaborate with firmware, electronics interface, and optical teams.
• Develop detection and calibration algorithms throughout product lifecycle.

Skills

Optical systems development

Performance modeling

Data analysis

Troubleshooting

MATLAB

Python

Zemax

FRED

Education

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

Master’s degree or PhD in relevant field

Job description

Rocket Lab is looking for a Senior Optical Engineer II or Principal to join their Optical Systems division in Tucson, Arizona. The role involves guiding the development of space-based optical systems, working closely on data analysis and troubleshooting issues. Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering or related fields and significant experience in optical systems. U.S. citizenship is required to maintain security clearance. Rocket Lab offers a collaborative and innovative environment focused on space technology advancements.