Senior Machine Learning Engineer II (EO/IR Image Analysis)

Rocket Lab Optical Systems is seeking a Senior Machine Learning Engineer II to develop deep learning models for Electro-Optical and Infrared (EO/IR) image/video processing as part of Tranche 3 of SDA’s Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture.

Responsibilities

• Develop computer vision algorithms and deep neural networks for image and video processing chains
• Partner with researchers and engineers across artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computer vision
• Use physics-based image simulation frameworks to scale training and validation data
• Design, train, and deploy machine learning models for Optical Systems applications
• Perform rapid prototyping and enhanced development for integration into operational systems
• Carry out troubleshooting, bug fixes, and maintenance for existing and newly developed systems
• Monitor ML research and assess new tools, frameworks, and techniques

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree plus 8+ years experience; Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field
• Strong foundation in math and machine learning fundamentals, including model selection, architecture, training, validation, testing, and deployment
• Experience building deep learning neural networks (for example CNNs) for computer vision and image processing, including object detection, image segmentation, and tracking
• Strong math background, including linear algebra and optimization theory
• Proficiency in Python
• Experience with deep learning libraries such as Keras, TensorFlow, and PyTorch
• Software engineering fundamentals including version control, testing, CI/CD, and containerization
• U.S. citizenship required due to program requirements
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance

Technologies

• Python
• Keras
• TensorFlow
• PyTorch

Nice to Have

• Proficiency in C/C++/Rust
• Experience curating quality, real-world datasets for training deep learning models
• TS/SCI security clearance
• May involve prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, and computer work, with occasional exposure to moderate noise, dust, and fumes in production areas

Location and Salary

• Location: Littleton, CO (onsite)
• Compensation: USD 100,000 to 176,200 per year

U.S. Office Eligibility (ITAR / Export Regulations)

• To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, Rocket Lab employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), lawfully admitted as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable