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Rocket Lab Optical Systems, part of Rocket Lab's Space Systems division, is seeking a Senior Manufacturing Engineer I to support advanced electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) space payload integration, testing, and manufacturing for the U.S. Space Development Agency's Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (Tranche 3). This role is based in Tucson, AZ.
You will lead manufacturing activities for mission-critical EO/IR optical payloads used in spaceborne sensor systems. Your responsibilities include executing hands-on optical integration tasks such as optical bench setup, alignment, metrology, and environmental test readiness. You will develop and refine test procedures, optical characterization methods, and performance-validation processes to ensure compliance with mission requirements.
Key responsibilities:
- Lead manufacturing activities for advanced EO/IR optical payloads
- Execute optical integration tasks including optical bench setup, alignment, metrology, and environmental test readiness
- Develop and refine test procedures, optical characterization methods, and performance-validation processes
- Support environmental tests (TVAC, vibe, shock), monitor optical performance, and ensure mission compliance
- Drive resolution of integration issues, test anomalies, and optical performance deviations
- Work cross-functionally with Mechanical, Electrical, Systems, and Assembly Integration & Test (AIT) teams
- Support customer reviews, data packages, and technical briefings
- Identify opportunities to improve alignment methods, test tooling, and data-analysis workflows
Rocket Lab's Space Systems division has enabled more than 1,700 missions, including interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing, and national security initiatives. The division has 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.
QUALIFICATIONS (Required):
- Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, or related field
- 5+ years of experience in integration, test, and manufacturing of complex systems
- U.S. citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance
- Experience with optical alignment, metrology, interferometry, and imaging-system characterization
- Familiarity with optical benches, cleanroom practices, contamination control, and environmental testing
- Strong data analysis, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills
- Understanding of electromechanical assembly, tooling, test, and quality techniques
QUALIFICATIONS (Preferred):
- Bachelor's degree in aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering
- Strong working knowledge of EEE piece parts, PCBs, and PCBAs
- Understanding of sensors, signal conditioning, and data acquisition electronics
- Familiarity with spacecraft harness design and best practices
- Hands-on experience using electrical test equipment
- Experience working in a cleanroom
- Familiarity with MPR systems (ideally Costpoint)
- Experience with EO/IR payloads, infrared focal planes, or space-based sensor systems
- Experience writing alignment procedures, test scripts, and verification plans
- Experience with automated test equipment or optical STE
- Active TS/SCI U.S. Government Security Clearance
