ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity’s reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

IT

Rocket Lab’s IT team is responsible for how our global teams access information and run operations across our computer systems, networks, and devices. Our hardworking IT team is a group of flexible problem-solvers working in a fast-paced environment but who also thrive under the challenge of supporting all of our proprietary systems and people, from finance to launch operations.

AI SOFTWARE ENGINEER I

Based on-site at Rocket Lab's Long Beach, CA facility, the 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

Bachelor’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.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE

1+ years of experience in software engineering or machine learning engineering.
Passion for software, staying up to date with latest developments and experimenting with interesting technology.
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate technical concepts for diverse audiences.
Expert level skills in Python, including libraries commonly used in AI/ML from pandas to PyTorch.
In-depth knowledge of Kubernetes and cloud provider technologies (AWS/Azure/Google Cloud).
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.

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.

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock), top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution), dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.

Additional perks include subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers (where available), discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on our popular merch store, and a variety of other employee discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.