About the job
Rocket Lab USA, Inc. develops launch vehicles, spacecraft, and payload solutions to support scientific research, Earth observation, climate monitoring, national security, and technology demonstrations. The Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched rocket in the United States, with more than 230 satellites delivered to orbit. The company is also advancing Neutron, a medium-lift reusable rocket designed for larger satellite constellations. Rocket Lab’s Space Systems division produces satellites and components for missions ranging from lunar and Martian exploration to hardware used in the James Webb Space Telescope.
The Space Systems team is responsible for designing and building complete spacecraft, payloads, and subsystems that must operate reliably in orbit. Their work covers solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, and communication radios. With experience supporting over 1,700 missions, the team contributes to interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing, and defense projects. Partnerships include NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U. S. Space Force, delivering high-performance spacecraft and integrated systems for demanding missions.
Role overview
This Senior/Principal Systems Engineer position is based in Tucson, AZ and requires an active Secret clearance. The role sits within the Optical Systems division, which addresses technical challenges in the space sector and supports Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) needs for the Department of Defense and Intelligence community.

