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Principal Algorithm Engineer (EO/IR Image Analysis)

Rocket Lab CorporationTucson, AZ106 OS - Design Engineering
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Salary
Not listed
Job type
Full-time
Experience
Senior · 2+ yrs
Posted
16 Sept 2026
Status
Open · checked 7d ago

About this role

This role suits professionals with a strong background in physics, mathematics, or engineering who want to build deep learning neural networks for advanced Electro-Optical image processing. Based in Tucson, AZ, the Principal Algorithm Engineer position involves supporting the U.S. Space Development Agency's Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture at Rocket Lab Corporation.

Role Overview

Rocket Lab Corporation is hiring a Principal Algorithm Engineer for its Optical Systems division in Tucson, AZ. The position centers on developing computer vision algorithms and deep neural networks for image and video processing chains to support national security and defense initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

Develop computer vision algorithms and deep neural networks for image and video processing chains.
Collaborate with other researchers and engineers on artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computer vision.
Work with physics-based image simulation frameworks to scale training and validation data.
Design, train, and deploy machine learning models for Optical Systems applications.
Perform rapid prototyping and enhanced development to integrate solutions into operational systems.
Conduct troubleshooting, bug fixes, and maintenance of existing and new systems.
Stay current with machine learning research and evaluate new tools, frameworks, and techniques.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree with 8+ years of experience, master's degree with 5+ years of experience, or Ph.D. with 2+ years of experience in physics, optical sciences, computer science, mathematics, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or a related technical discipline with demonstrated experience in image processing or EO/IR systems.
Strong background in mathematics and fundamentals of machine learning, including model selection, architecting, training, validation, testing, and deployment.
Experience in building deep learning neural networks for computer vision, image processing, or analyses such as object detection, image segmentation, and tracking.
Strong math background, particularly in linear algebra and optimization theory.
Proficiency in Python.
Experience with deep learning libraries such as Keras, TensorFlow, and PyTorch.
Software engineering fundamentals including version control, testing, CI/CD, and containerization.
U.S. citizenship is required due to program requirements.
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance.

Nice to Have

Proficiency in C, C++, or Rust.
Experience curating quality, real-world datasets for training deep learning models.
Active TS/SCI security clearance.

Skills and Tools

Python
C / C++ / Rust
TensorFlow
PyTorch
Keras
Deep Learning Neural Networks
Computer Vision
Physics-Based Image Simulation Frameworks

About the Company

Rocket Lab Corporation builds rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected and protected. The Space Systems division creates complete spacecraft and precision payloads for missions to the Moon, Mars, and national security initiatives, working with partners like NASA and the U.S. Space Force.

How to Apply

Candidates should apply directly on the official Rocket Lab company careers page.

Skills and tech stack

PythonCC++RustTensorFlowPyTorchKerasComputer VisionDeep LearningMachine Learning

Questions candidates ask

Where is the Principal Algorithm Engineer position located?

The role is located in Tucson, AZ.

What educational and experience qualifications are required?

Candidates need a bachelor's degree with 8+ years of experience, a master's degree with 5+ years of experience, or a Ph.D. with 2+ years of experience in physics, optical sciences, computer science, mathematics, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or a related technical discipline.

Are there citizenship or security clearance requirements?

Yes, U.S. citizenship is required, and candidates must be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance.

What programming languages and tools are used in this role?

The role requires proficiency in Python and experience with deep learning libraries such as Keras, TensorFlow, and PyTorch. Proficiency in C, C++ or Rust is listed as a nice-to-have skill.

Ready to apply?

The application is on the official Rocket Lab Corporation careers page.

Apply on company site