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Job description
Rocket Lab’s Space Systems division builds complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space including solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, and radios.
The Space Systems division has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. We have built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help get to space — our Space Systems division is empowering the boldest and most ambitious space missions.
PRINCIPAL ELECTRICAL ENGINEER
Rocket Lab Optical Systems solves mission-critical space domain and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance challenges for Department of Defense and Intelligence Community customers. Our vision is to revolutionize the space-based payload market with innovative and novel designs for space, terrestrial, and airborne environments. Building on more than 20 years of electro-optical and infrared systems innovation from Geost, Rocket Lab Optical Systems delivers solutions to the warfighter for responsive, scalable sensing solutions across all orbital domains.
As a Principal Electrical Engineer for Rocket Lab Optical Systems in Tucson, AZ, you will have the opportunity to support the development and test of avionics hardware for our electro-optical optical systems. In this role you will work collaboratively with engineers of various disciplines and participate in all aspects of electrical hardware development, from requirements definition through design, prototyping, fabrication, testing, and production. To be successful in this role, you must be passionate about avionics electrical hardware design, with a willingness to learn in a fast-paced environment. Join a driven team of pioneers relentlessly tackling challenging projects, delivering on the impossible, and making an impact on the future of space!
WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:
Hardware Design & Architecture
Provide technical leadership for the full lifecycle of avionics hardware for advanced electro-optical systems
Drive system architecture and technology roadmaps for EO sensors across all orbital domains
Oversee design and integration of complex electronics (FPGA, microcontroller, ADC/DAC, VPX) at system and module levels
Architect and review payload-level designs, integrating motor controllers, processing units, imagers, and cryptographic devices, while mentoring engineering teams and ensuring compliance with industry standards and security requirements
Establish standards for schematic capture and PCBA layout in Altium Designer, ensuring quality and reliability through critical design reviews
Requirements & Verification
Lead PCBA requirements development through cross-functional collaboration, ensuring alignment with system objectives
Establish and oversee verification, validation, and integration test strategies
Direct environmental qualification programs (EMI/EMC, TVAC, shock, vibration), ensuring compliance with standards
Provide technical leadership and sign-off for failure analysis and root-cause investigations, driving continuous improvement
Provide strategic technical leadership and mentorship to engineering teams, fostering talent development and technical excellence
Build and manage key relationships with suppliers, manufacturing partners, and executive stakeholders to align program objectives
Drive production manufacturing initiatives, leading DFM strategy, yield optimization, and process innovation across programs
Lead critical design reviews and deliver high-impact technical recommendations to executive leadership and cross-functional teams
YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
Master’s in electrical engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related discipline (or equivalent advanced experience)
12+ years of progressive electrical hardware design experience in aerospace or related high-reliability industries, with demonstrated technical leadership on complex programs
Proven ability to architect and deliver innovative "blank sheet of paper" design solutions for mission-critical aerospace systems
Extensive experience in advanced PCBA design, including high-speed digital and mixed-signal circuits with FPGAs, ASICs, and microcontrollers
Deep expertise in FPGA architecture and embedded software development for ARM-based systems
Deep expertise in system-level integration of processors, FPGAs, switch mode power supplies, high-speed communication interfaces, and precision analog instrumentation
Strong analog electronics design, with a track record of delivering high-performance, low-noise solutions for aerospace applications
High proficiency in circuit analysis and simulation using SPICE, MATLAB, and other industry-standard tools
Extensive experience architecting electronics for space environments, with deep knowledge of radiation effects (SEU/SEL) and mitigation strategies
Leadership in PCBA verification, validation, and qualification for flight hardware
Expert in advanced electronic lab instrumentation and hands-on prototyping for complex system bring-up and troubleshooting
U.S. citizenship required due to government and program security requirements
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
Proven track record designing high-reliability aerospace hardware for extreme environments (TVAC, shock, vibration)
Advanced expertise in EMI/EMC compliance, testing, and mitigation for aerospace systems
Mastery of Altium Designer for schematic capture, multi-layer PCB layout, and design reviews
Experience designing rigid-flex PCBs and integrating electromechanical systems
Active TS/SCI U.S. Government Security Clearance
This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.
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Worksite address
tucson, AZ, 85718, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.