Senior Algorithm Engineer II (EO/IR Image Analysis)
About this role
Engineers who thrive in fast-paced environments and enjoy solving complex defense and space challenges will find a strong fit at Rocket Lab Corporation in Tucson, AZ. The Optical Systems group develops advanced electro-optical and infrared systems for national security and defense missions, supporting critical initiatives like the Space Development Agency's Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture.
In this role, the engineer builds deep learning neural networks and computer vision algorithms for image and video processing chains. Responsibilities include designing physics-based image simulation frameworks, prototyping new capabilities, and deploying machine learning models into operational systems. The ideal candidate combines a rigorous mathematical background with practical experience in deep learning and image processing to deliver scalable sensing solutions across orbital domains.
What you will do
- Develop computer vision algorithms and deep neural networks for image and video processing chains.
- Collaborate with researchers and engineers on artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computer vision initiatives.
- Utilize 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 for integration into operational systems.
- Troubleshoot, fix bugs, and maintain existing and new software systems.
- Stay current with machine learning research to evaluate new tools, frameworks, and techniques.
What you need
- Hold 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.
- Demonstrate experience in image processing or electro-optical and infrared systems.
- Possess a strong background in mathematics and machine learning fundamentals, covering model selection, architecting, training, validation, testing, and deployment.
- Demonstrate experience building deep learning neural networks such as CNNs for computer vision, image processing, or analyses like object detection, segmentation, and tracking.
- Show a strong math background with particular focus on linear algebra and optimization theory.
- Display proficiency in Python alongside experience with deep learning libraries like Keras, TensorFlow, or PyTorch.
- Understand software engineering fundamentals including version control, testing, CI/CD, and containerization.
- Meet U.S. citizenship requirements and possess the 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 tech stack
Questions candidates ask
Where is this role located?
This position is located in Tucson, AZ, supporting Rocket Lab Optical Systems.
What are the citizenship or clearance requirements?
U.S. citizenship is required due to program requirements. Candidates must also have the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance.
What kind of technical background is needed?
Candidates need a degree in a technical discipline with experience in image processing or EO/IR systems, a strong background in math and machine learning fundamentals, and proficiency in Python and deep learning libraries.
The application is on the official Rocket Lab Corporation careers page.
Apply on company site