Principal Engineer, Space Payloads - Active Top Secret Clearance at Rocket Lab USA

Tucson, Arizona, United States

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Expert & Leadership (9+ years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Aerospace, Space, DefenseIndustries

Requirements

Active DoD Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility
Ability to work in classified environments (25%+ of the time)

Responsibilities

Own the technical baseline: Serve as the authority across systems engineering, hardware, software, and test, ensuring requirements are achieved and the system delivers mission value
Lead critical reviews: Chair program gate reviews from SRR through TRR, assessing design maturity, readiness, and risk posture
Shape system architecture: Direct the development of next-generation space-based electro-optical sensor systems
Lead the design, development, and integration of electro-optical sensor systems
Guide a multi-disciplinary team through all phases of development—from requirements definition to integration, test, and sustainment
Ensure mission success while advancing innovation

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Spacecraft DesignPayload IntegrationSatellite ComponentsFlight SoftwareStar TrackersOptical SystemsSeparation SystemsRadiosAerospace Manufacturing

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What is the salary range for the Principal Engineer position?

This information is not specified in the job description.

Is this Principal Engineer role remote or does it require working on-site?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What security clearance is required for this Principal Engineer role?

An active Top Secret clearance is required for this position.

What kind of team will the Principal Engineer be working with?

The role involves leading a multi-disciplinary team through all phases of development for space-based electro-optical sensor systems.

What experience makes a strong candidate for this Principal Engineer position?

Accomplished and mission-driven engineers with expertise to serve as the definitive technical authority on leading the design, development, and integration of next-generation space-based electro-optical sensor systems stand out.

Rocket Lab USA

Provides launch services and spacecraft solutions

About Rocket Lab USA

Rocket Lab provides comprehensive space solutions, including launch services, spacecraft components, and satellite management. Their main products are the Electron launch vehicle, which is designed for small satellite launches, and the Photon satellite platform, which supports various missions, including those for NASA. The Electron rocket has gained popularity, becoming the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket since its debut in 2018, successfully delivering over 100 satellites into orbit for various sectors. Rocket Lab differentiates itself from competitors by offering a streamlined approach to accessing space, with multiple launch sites and a focus on affordability and reliability. The company's goal is to make space more accessible and to support a wide range of missions, from national security to scientific exploration.

Long Beach, CaliforniaHeadquarters

2006Year Founded

$713.3MTotal Funding

IPOCompany Stage

Robotics & Automation, Aerospace, DefenseIndustries

1,001-5,000Employees

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

Paid Vacation

Paid Sick Leave

Paid Holidays

Paid Parental Leave

401(k) Retirement Plan

401(k) Company Match

Flexible Spending Account

Company Equity

Wellness Program

Phone/Internet Stipend

Childcare Support

Gym Membership

Employee Discounts

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Professional Development Budget

Conference Attendance Budget

Flexible Work Hours

Hybrid Work Options

Risks

Increased competition from SpaceX as Rocket Lab develops the Neutron rocket.

Potential delays in Virginia launch site could impact schedules and revenue.

Reliance on New Zealand site poses risks from geopolitical tensions or natural disasters.

Differentiation

Rocket Lab's Electron is the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually.

Photon platform supports NASA missions to the Moon, Mars, and private Venus missions.

Neutron rocket development positions Rocket Lab as a competitor in heavy-lift launches.

Upsides

Collaboration with Air Force Research Lab could lead to more defense contracts.

Operational efficiency shown by two launches in 24 hours from different hemispheres.

Investment by Pier 88 indicates strong investor confidence in Rocket Lab's growth.

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