Senior Integration and Test Engineer II

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 Developm...

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 air...

Lead integration, alignment, calibration, and verification activities for advanced EO/IR optical payloads used in spaceborne sensor systems
Execute hands-on optical integration tasks including optical bench setup, alignment, metrology, and environmental test readiness—we build beautiful things
Develop and refine test procedures, optical characterization methods, and performance-validation processes
Support environmental tests (TVAC, vibe, shock), monitor optical performance, and ensure compliance with mission requirements
Drive resolution of integration issues, test anomalies, and optical performance deviations—we hustle and we do the impossible
Work cross-functionally with Mechanical, Electrical, Systems, and AIT teams to ensure seamless optical-mechanical-electrical integration
Support customer reviews, data packages, and technical briefings
Identify opportunities to improve alignment methods, test tooling, and data-analysis workflows

Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field
8+ years of experience integration and test of complex systems
U.S. citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance
Experience in optical system integration, test, or verification
Hands-on 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
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

Citizenship of AU / NZ / EU / NATO