Senior Embedded Software Engineer I​/II

About Rocket Lab

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 to 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 Optical Systems division solves mission‑critical space domain and ISR challenges for DoD and IC customers. As a Senior Embedded Software Engineer I/II based at our Optical Systems sites in Chantilly, VA, you will support Tranche 3 of the U.S. Space Development Agency’s PWSA using the latest HPC technologies including Nvidia CUDA to support advanced EO/IR technology.

• Play a key role supporting the development of payload software, external interfaces, and operating system deployments.
• Focus on deployment of novel systems on size/weight/power‑constrained computing hardware for space sensor payloads.
• Participate in all aspects of software design and development starting with requirements generation and following through implementation, testing, deployment, and support.
• Leverage core understanding of Linux fundamentals, fault‑tolerant design, device interface implementation, and real‑time operating systems.
• Be part of a team of driven pioneers relentlessly tackling challenging projects, delivering on the impossible, and making an impact on the future of space.

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, or equivalent disciplines with 5–8 years of experience.
• Experience in software engineering with low‑level C programming.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance.

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, or equivalent disciplines with 8–12 years of experience.
• Experience in software engineering with low‑level C programming.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance.

• Experience with operating system deployment and hardware driver interfaces.
• Exposure to real‑time operating systems (RTOS).
• Exposure to hybrid C and Python for tests.
• Experience with interfaces, timing, and communication protocols.
• Active TS/SCI security clearance.

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings.

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out‑think, out‑work and out‑pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small.

We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident, or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations. Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at

For candidates seeking to work in New Zealand offices only: background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers; checks include nationality checks as it is required that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the U.S. ITAR.