Optical Lab Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

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 Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.
SPACE SYSTEMS
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.
SENIOR STRUCTURAL ANALYST I/II
Rocket Lab's Optical Systems division solves mission-critical space domain and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) challenges for Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community (IC) customers. Our vision is to revolutionize the space-based payload market with innovative and novel designs for space, terrestrial, and airborne environments. Building on more than 20 years of electro-optical and infrared systems innovation from Geost, Optical Systems delivers solutions to the warfighter for responsive, scalable sensing solutions across all orbital domains.
As a Senior Structural Analyst I/II based at our Optical Systems site in Chantilly, VA, you will have the opportunity to support multiple advanced space payload and IRAD programs. In this role you will contribute to technical programs across all phases, and be an integral part of the design, development, build, and test of flight hardware. To be successful in this role, you must bring curiosity, adaptability, a passion for teamwork, and keen attention to detail. Join a driven team of pioneers relentlessly tackling challenging projects, delivering on the impossible, and making an impact on the future of space!
(Please note: this position can be hired at the Senior Structural Analyst I or Senior Structural Analyst II level)
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Perform structural analysis of spacecraft components and assemblies using analytical methods and finite element analysis (FEA) tools
• Develop and validate analytical models to predict structural behavior under integration, test, launch, operational conditions
• Evaluate static, dynamic, thermal, and fatigue loads to ensure compliance with design requirements and safety margins
• Collaborate with design engineers to optimize structures for weight, manufacturability, and performance
• Support the development of test plans and interpret structural test data to correlate and validate analysis models
• Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations to communicate analysis results and recommendations
• Participate in design reviews and provide structural engineering input throughout the product development lifecycle
• Stay current with industry standards, materials, and analysis techniques
• Contribute to continuous improvement of analysis processes, tools, and best practices.
• Use investigative and trouble-shooting skills to assess issues and develop resolutions in the lab
• Work proactively to complete tasks with some modest direction
• Communicate effectively with direct supervisor, project management, customers, and team members across disciplines
• Significantly contribute to program and customer meetings and reviews
• Support travel as required, including working off-site

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS SENIOR STRUCTURAL ANALYST I:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or other technical discipline
• 5+ year of experience in mechanical structural analysis
• Superior computer skills and experience with FEA tools (ANSYS, Femap/NASTRAN, etc.)
• Ability to write clear and comprehensive technical documentation
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS SENIOR STRUCTURAL ANALYST II:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or other technical discipline
• 8+ years of experience in mechanical structural analysis
• Superior computer skills and experience with FEA tools (ANSYS, Femap/NASTRAN, etc.)
• Ability to write clear and comprehensive technical documentation
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience with mechanism design
• Experience with materials engineering and processes
• Experience with environmental testing
• Experience with SolidWorks or NX
• Experience in implementation and understanding of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing
• Experience as an REA (Responsible Engineering Authority) or familiarity with documentation process controls
• Experience with mechanical design associated with optical and electro-optical systems
• Hands-on expertise with optical systems, telescope systems, laser systems, and/or space systems
• Experience designing optical mounts for use in various demanding applications and environments
• Team player who incorporates a team-based success philosophy and seeks mentorship

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.
The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the state of Virginia's pay transparency requirements. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience.
Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab's compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab's Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.
Base Pay Range (VA Only)
$132,200-$220,000 USD
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.