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Principal Algorithm Engineer (EO/IR Image Analysis)

Rocket Lab CorporationChantilly, VA106 OS - Design Engineering
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Salary
$198,900 — $318,200 USD
Job type
Full-time
Experience
Senior · 5+ yrs
Posted
16 Sept 2026
Status
Open · checked 7d ago

About this role

Principal Algorithm Engineer (EO/IR Image Analysis) is a full-time role located in Chantilly, VA, that suits an experienced technical professional specializing in electro-optical and infrared image processing. This position involves developing and deploying advanced image processing and tracking algorithms for space-based payloads.

Role Overview

Rocket Lab Corporation is seeking a Principal Algorithm Engineer to support optical systems for defense and intelligence customers. The professional in this role will build and validate image processing chains, create modeling and simulation frameworks, and collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams.

Key Responsibilities

Develop, optimize, and validate complex EO/IR image-processing chains for real-time space-based sensor payloads.
Build modeling and simulation frameworks using sensor physics to synthesize mission imagery for algorithm validation and machine learning training.
Apply classical and deep learning methods to detect and track low-SNR objects within EO/IR imagery.
Partner with software and firmware teams to transition algorithms into high-performance, real-time implementations.
Maintain deployed algorithms, troubleshoot fielded systems, and analyze large datasets to extract performance analytics.
Document and present technical results to government customers and internal stakeholders.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree with 12+ years of experience, master's degree with 8+ years of experience, or Ph.D. with 5+ years of experience in physics, optical sciences, computer science, mathematics, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or a related discipline.
Demonstrated experience in designing, implementing, and optimizing computer vision algorithms for EO/IR sensors.
Proficiency in Python programming.
Experience with image-system modeling and simulation.
United States citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance.

Nice to Have

Strong mathematics background with a focus on linear algebra.
Experience with modern deep-learning approaches to computer vision and space-based imaging systems.
Familiarity with radiometric, geometric, and temporal sensor calibration procedures.
Proficiency in C and C++.
Experience across all phases of product development and technical leadership.
Active TS/SCI security clearance.

Skills and Tools

Python
C/C++
EO/IR Image Processing
Computer Vision
Modeling and Simulation

Salary and Benefits

Base salary range from $198,000 to $264,000 USD with a total compensation package ranging between $198,900 and $318,200 USD.
Annual equity grant value and Employee Stock Purchase Program with a 15% discount.
Medical, dental, and vision coverage alongside flexible spending and dependent care accounts.
Paid vacation, sick time, 11 paid holidays, and paid parental leave.
401(k) retirement plan with company match, disability insurance, and life insurance.

About the Company

Rocket Lab Corporation builds rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems for missions ranging from national security to interplanetary exploration. The optical systems division delivers sensing solutions for responsive space operations from its facility in Chantilly, VA.

How to Apply

Apply on the official company careers page.

Skills and tech stack

PythonCC++Computer VisionDeep LearningMachine Learning

Questions candidates ask

What education and experience are required for this role?

Candidates need a bachelor's degree with 12+ years of experience, a master's degree with 8+ years of experience, or a Ph.D. with 5+ years of experience in physics, optical sciences, computer science, mathematics, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or a related technical discipline.

What citizenship or clearance is required?

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

What programming languages are used?

Proficiency in Python is required, while proficiency in C/C++ is listed as a nice-to-have skill.

What is the salary range for this position?

The base salary ranges from $198,000 to $264,000 USD, with a total compensation range including equity between $198,900 and $318,200 USD.

Where is the job located?

The position is located in Chantilly, VA.

Ready to apply?

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

Apply on company site