Senior Software Engineer I/II - AI Engineering

Rocket Lab Corporation•Littleton, CO

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access space. The rockets and satellites we build, and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope. SPACE SYSTEMS At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team 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. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions. SENIOR SOFTWARE ENGINEER I/II – AI Engineering Are you passionate about advancing aerospace technology through cutting-edge software solutions? We're looking for a driven Senior Software Engineer I/II to join our AI Engineering team, based out of our Littleton, CO site. You will play a pivotal role in developing AI-driven tools and applications, including those leveraging Large Language Models (LLMs) and advanced machine learning techniques. This role offers the opportunity to work on innovative projects that integrate AI applications to enhance aerospace systems, including simulation accuracy, decision-making, and automation. You’ll be part of a collaborative team, contributing to all phases of AI-driven software development—from requirements definition and design to coding, testing, and deployment. Our projects focus on applying AI and machine learning to solve complex aerospace challenges. (Please note: This position can be hired at the Senior Software Engineer I or Senior Software Engineer II level.)

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
5+ years of professional experience in software development, with a focus on AI applications or machine learning.
Familiarity with machine learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch) and integrating ML models into software systems.
Experience working with Large Language Models (LLMs) and AI applications for natural language processing, automation, or decision support.
Proficiency in C#/.NET and Angular (or similar frontend frameworks like React or Vue).
Strong understanding of relational databases (e.g., MySQL, SQL Server, SQLite).
Solid grasp of object-oriented programming principles and design patterns.
U.S citizenship is required, due to program requirements

Nice To Haves

Master's or PhD in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field.
Experience with Docker/Kubernetes for containerization and orchestration.
Knowledge of network programming (e.g., Sockets, WebSockets) for real-time data exchange.
Familiarity with Git and modern version control workflows.
Experience working in Agile/Scrum environments and contributing to iterative development cycles.
Advanced knowledge of Angular NgRx or other state management libraries.
Experience applying LLMs for aerospace-specific use cases, such as simulation, predictive modeling, or automated system configuration.
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to debug complex systems.
A team-oriented mindset with excellent communication skills and a positive attitude.

Responsibilities

Build AI-driven applications and integrate Large Language Models (LLMs) to enhance simulation accuracy, decision-making, and automation.
Develop and deploy machine learning models using frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for AI integration into aerospace systems.
Optimize AI applications for performance, scalability, and reliability in large-scale simulations and data processing.
Conduct research and development to apply LLMs for aerospace-specific use cases, such as simulation, predictive modeling, or automated system configuration.
Participate in design reviews (e.g., PDR, CDR) and contribute to the refinement of system requirements and technical specifications.
Conduct code reviews to ensure adherence to company coding standards and best practices.

Benefits

Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab’s compensation package for this role.
You may be eligible for company stock, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab’s Employee Stock Purchase Program.
Employee benefits also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.

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