Principal Algorithm Engineer (EO/IR Image Analysis) at ROCKET LAB

Department: 106 OS - Design Engineering

Compensation

$259,000 – $370,000/yr

Location: Chantilly, Virginia
Type: Full-time
Level: staff+
Posted: Sep 16, 2026

Description

Rocket Lab Optical Systems is hiring a Principal Algorithm Engineer in Chantilly, Virginia, to develop, validate, optimize, and deploy advanced EO/IR image-processing, object-detection, and tracking algorithms for space payloads. The role involves sensor physics and image-formation modeling, machine-learning training, real-time software and firmware implementation, operational program support, and performance analysis. Candidates need a bachelor’s, master’s, or Ph.D. degree with substantial experience in image processing or EO/IR systems, strong Python skills, and the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance. The position offers a base salary of $259,000–$370,000 USD in Virginia, plus medical, dental, and vision insurance and other benefits.

Required Skills

Image processing
Object detection
Tracking
Python
Deep learning
Sensor calibration
Machine learning

Additional Information

Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree with 12+ years of experience, master's degree with 8+ years of experience, or Ph.D. with 5+ years of experience in a relevant technical discipline, with demonstrated experience in image processing or EO/IR systems.
Required Previous Experiences: Experience designing, implementing, testing, and optimizing image processing and computer vision algorithms for EO/IR sensors.
Broad experience in computer vision, including image stabilization, 3-D multi-view modeling, pose reconstruction, object detection, tracking, and background suppression.
Experience with image-system modeling and simulation.
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance.
Preferred Qualifications: Strong mathematical background, particularly linear algebra.
Experience with modern, deep-learning-based computer vision.
Experience with space-looking or space-based imaging systems.
Experience with radiometric, geometric, and temporal sensor calibration for EO/IR systems.
Proficiency in C/C++.
Experience across product development phases, including requirements, design, integration, verification, and production transition.
Experience managing or leading others in a technical or functional engineering capacity.
TS/SCI security clearance.
Translation Company Name: Rocket Lab Corporation