Senior Space Software Systems Engineer

Rocketlab; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking a Senior Software Systems Engineer II for its Optical Systems site in Tucson, AZ. You will design, develop, and test space-based electro-optical sensors, manage budgets, drive system software architecture, and mentor colleagues across software and systems teams.

You’ll collaborate on constraints, requirements, and verification activities to ensure mission success, with travel and on-site work as needed and ITAR compliance guiding all activities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or equivalent technical field.
• Active security clearance required for the program.
• 8+ years in engineering within aerospace; 3+ years on development projects; 2+ years in lead roles.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test space-based software and firmware for optical instruments and payloads.
• Define software requirements, verification methods, and test strategies.
• Manage software budgets, interfaces, and system-level verification across missions.
• Mentor engineers on systems engineering, requirements, and V&V methodologies.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders; support travel as needed.

Skills

Active Clearance

Experience in aerospace engineering

Leadership experience

JAMA/DOORS/JIRA/Cameo experience

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering (systems, software, computer, electrical, aerospace, mechanical, or other technical engineering discipline)

Tools

CAM/IPTL tools

CAMEO/JAMA/DOORS/JIRA

Job description

Rocket Lab is seeking a Senior Software Systems Engineer II for its Optical Systems site in Tucson, AZ. You will design, develop, and test space-based electro-optical sensors, manage budgets, drive system software architecture, and mentor colleagues across software and systems teams.

You’ll collaborate on constraints, requirements, and verification activities to ensure mission success, with travel and on-site work as needed and ITAR compliance guiding all activities.