ABOUT ROCKET LAB
Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.
Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!
ABOUT THE ROLE:
Based on-site at Rocket Lab's Auckland, NZ facility, the Senior AI Software Engineer will develop innovative AI solutions, deploy these systems company-wide, and seamlessly integrate them with our critical internal applications. You'll join a collaborative team running rapid experiments to identify the most promising AI use cases, while developing robust, scalable infrastructure that supports the whole organization to leverage AI.
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:
- Provide access to off-the-shelf AI tools, supporting integration and offering training.
- Build AI-driven solutions that deliver high value across the organization.
- Integrate internal applications with AI by implementing AI agents and providing APIs for software developers.
- Evaluate and integrate specialized AI solutions from external partners to complement our capabilities.
- Collaborate with teams, sharing knowledge and training colleagues on the practical applications of AI.
- Stay informed about internal developments to identify and assess emerging AI opportunities.
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS:
- 5+ years of experience in software engineering or machine learning engineering.
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
- Proficiency in a modern programming language.
- Familiarity with LLM agents, MCP, and how they are used in current AI solutions.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate technical concepts for diverse audiences.
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
- Passion for software, staying up to date with latest developments and experimenting with interesting technology.
- Expert level skills in Python, including libraries commonly used in AI/ML from pandas to PyTorch.
- Demonstrating in-depth knowledge of Kubernetes and cloud provider technologies (AWS/Azure/Google Cloud).
- Exhibiting a proven track record of automating software CI/CD pipelines with tools such as TeamCity and ArgoCD.
- Experience with advanced machine learning techniques such as deep learning, natural language processing, or reinforcement learning.
If the above sounds like you apply now!
WHAT TO EXPECT
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.
Important information:
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:
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 (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.
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, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:
For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.
Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.