Senior Algorithm Engineer II (EO/IR Image Analysis)
About this role
Engineers who enjoy applying advanced mathematics and deep learning to complex aerospace challenges will thrive in this position at Rocket Lab Corporation. Operating within the Optical Systems division in Chantilly, VA, the team develops electro-optical and infrared systems that support national security initiatives and the U.S. Space Development Agency's Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture.
Day-to-day work centers on creating computer vision algorithms, training deep neural networks for image processing chains, and leveraging physics-based image simulation frameworks. The group exists to provide responsive, scalable sensing capabilities for the warfighter across orbital domains. Success in the role requires strong software engineering fundamentals, a solid grounding in linear algebra, and practical experience building models for object detection, segmentation, and tracking.
What you will do
- 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 initiatives.
- 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 for existing and new systems.
- Stay current with machine learning research and 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 fundamentals of machine learning, including model selection, architecting, training, validation, testing, and deployment.
- Show experience building deep learning neural networks such as convolutional neural networks for computer vision, image processing, or analyses like object detection, image segmentation, and tracking.
- Demonstrate a strong background in mathematics, particularly linear algebra and optimization theory.
- Exhibit proficiency in Python and experience with deep learning libraries like Keras, TensorFlow, and PyTorch.
- Apply software engineering fundamentals including version control, testing, CI/CD, and containerization.
- Meet U.S. citizenship requirements and have 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
Benefits
- Company stock or cash incentives, with options to purchase discounted stock through the Employee Stock Purchase Program
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage
- 401(k) retirement plan options
- Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave
- Paid parental leave
- Other discounts and perks
Skills and tech stack
Questions candidates ask
What is the salary range for this role?
The expected base salary range for the position is $162,000 to $243,000 USD. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience.
Where is the position located?
This role is located in Chantilly, VA, supporting Rocket Lab Optical Systems. The position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, and computer work.
What security clearance or citizenship is required?
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 technologies and frameworks will I use?
You will use Python and deep learning libraries such as Keras, TensorFlow, and PyTorch. Proficiency in C, C++ or Rust is listed as a nice-to-have skill.
The application is on the official Rocket Lab Corporation careers page.
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