Senior Special Test Equipment; STE Engineer

Senior Special Test Equipment (STE) Engineer – Tucson, AZ

Rocket Lab’s Optical Systems division solves mission‑critical space domain and ISR challenges for DoD and IC customers. We’re looking for a Senior Special Test Equipment (STE) Engineer to design, integrate, validate, and sustain optical test equipment used to characterize, calibrate, and verify advanced optical payloads.

• Design, develop, integrate, and validate optical STE used for payload characterization, calibration, and alignment.
• Build and maintain optical test stations, fixtures, alignment tools, and automation setups.
• Execute hands‑on optical integration tasks: bench setup, alignment, calibration, data capture, and troubleshooting.
• Write and maintain optical test procedures, calibration scripts, and acceptance criteria.
• Support anomaly resolution, corrective actions, and performance improvements.
• Improve STE throughput, accuracy, and maintainability.
• Collaborate with Optics, Mechanical, Electrical, and AIT teams to ensure STE meets system‑level requirements.
• Support environmental testing and correlation of optical performance before/after test campaigns.

• Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience building or supporting optical or electro‑optical test setups.
• Hands‑on experience with optical alignment, metrology tools, and lab‑level integration.
• Ability to develop clear technical documentation and test procedures.
• Strong troubleshooting, data analysis, and lab execution skills.
• U.S. citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

• Experience with Python, MATLAB, or similar test automation tools.
• Familiarity with environmental test facilities and procedures.
• Knowledge of cleanroom practices and contamination control.

• Vision: close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and focus ability.
• Requires sitting, using hands/fingers, operating computer keyboard and controls, and verbal/written communication.
• Must commute to the Tucson, AZ office and be able to work occasional off‑shift hours.
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes, and moderate noise levels.
• Support occasional travel to partner sites and test facilities.

At Rocket Lab we thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and focus on delivering results. Our culture emphasizes teamwork, grit, and relentless innovation. We create an environment where every team member’s voice is heard and support each other’s growth.

Office Location
:
Tucson, AZ – US‑only office. Candidates must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, or otherwise eligible for U.S. government clearance. ITAR compliance applies. For more details, see Rocket Lab.

Equal Employment Opportunity
:
Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression. Rocket Lab provides reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities.

Disability Accommodation
:
Applicants needing accommodations should contact Giulia Johnson at  Only messages to this resource will be considered.