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Rocket Lab Optical Systems, part of Rocket Lab's Space Systems division, is seeking a Principal Algorithm Engineer to develop and deploy advanced algorithms for electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) image analysis and pattern recognition on space-based payloads. The division serves Department of Defense and Intelligence Community customers, building on over 20 years of innovation in EO/IR systems.
In this role, you will be responsible for developing, validating, and optimizing algorithms for EO/IR sensor data across a broad range of image processing techniques including noise reduction, image enhancement, image registration, and pattern recognition. You will apply pattern recognition methods to detect, classify, and track objects in EO/IR data for mission-critical applications.
Key responsibilities include:
- Develop and enhance modeling and simulation libraries, including EO/IR image simulators for algorithm development, testing, and validation
- Support and enhance existing operational programs, maintaining and improving deployed algorithms and troubleshooting fielded systems
- Implement and test algorithm improvements in deployed systems to support ongoing mission needs
- Apply strong programming skills in MATLAB, Python, and C/C++ to develop robust solutions
- Analyze large and complex EO/IR datasets to extract features, identify patterns, and assess algorithm performance
- Develop and document software tools for data collection, analysis, and performance assessment
- Decompose high-level customer requirements into algorithm and subsystem requirements
- Document and present algorithm performance results to technical and non-technical stakeholders, including government customers
- Attend technical interchange meetings and represent the organization in project development matters
- Support travel or off-site work as needed
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required:
- Bachelor's degree in physics, optical sciences, computer science, mathematics, electrical engineering, or related technical discipline with demonstrated experience in image processing or EO/IR systems
- Active U.S. Government Security Clearance with TS/SCI eligibility
- 12+ years of professional experience
- Demonstrated experience with MATLAB, Python, and/or C/C++ for analysis, modeling, simulation, or algorithm development
- Strong experience designing, implementing, testing, and optimizing algorithms for EO/IR sensors, with focus on image processing and pattern recognition
- Strong written and verbal communication skills with ability to document technical work and present results to diverse audiences
- Ability to contribute to completion of programs and project milestones
Desired:
- Master's degree or PhD in physics, optical sciences, computer science, mathematics, electrical engineering, or related technical discipline
- Experience with pattern recognition methods for EO/IR applications, including feature extraction, classification, and tracking
- Experience with sensor calibration procedures (radiometric, geometric, temporal) for EO/IR systems
- Expertise in modeling and simulation, including multiple EO/IR phenomenologies
- Experience across all phases of product development, including proposal design architectures, requirements generation, design development, integration, verification, and transition to production
- Experience managing or leading others in a technical and/or functional capacity within an engineering environment
Note: U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status required to comply with ITAR regulations.
