Senior Software Engineer I​/II - AI Engineering

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 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.

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.

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.

• 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 Tensor Flow 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.

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Please note:

This position can be hired at the Senior Software Engineer I or Senior Software Engineer II level.)

• 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., Tensor Flow, 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.