---
title: 'AI Software Engineer I at Rocket Lab Corporation'
canonical: 'https://feeny.ai/job/ai-software-engineer-i-rocket-lab-corporation-long-beach-0d91sxyqpyw3'
type: 'job'
last_seen: '2026-11-04'
---

# AI Software Engineer I at Rocket Lab Corporation

- **Company:** Rocket Lab Corporation
- **Location:** Long Beach, CA
- **Compensation:** $45–$52/hr
- **Posted:** 2026-11-03
- **Last confirmed live:** 2026-11-04
- **Apply:** https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/rocketlab/jobs/8182050003

## Job description

## 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.

Hourly Pay Range (CA Only) $45.39—$52 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](https://urldefense.us/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.pmddtc.state.gov_-3Fid-3Dddtc-5Fkb-5Farticle-5Fpage-26sys-5Fid-3D24d528fddbfc930044f9ff621f961987&d=DwMFog&c=N_fLK0KxmM34zjMadXHMx_SQYmXWO3FX0MRVr1hBcn4&r=prjnch9sxomG2ahCicblmM3m-FuPObepspoR1qvWq2I&m=ExC44mBPk2emo4Fr0xPSGZN0UraQ1ZtkDTxwR7iWw5rixcFQb-Wjlv7lJcecLldz&s=0lfm4LyRtFwK220WHBK11DGHWSVvVhQEcfa5G_2Nf18&e=).

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.](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2020/01/23/2020-00574/international-traffic-in-arms-regulations-us-munitions-list-categories-i-ii-and-iii)

## About Rocket Lab Corporation

## Company Overview
- **One-liner**: Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering reliable launch services, spacecraft, satellite components, and on-orbit management [rocketlabcorp.com](https://rocketlabcorp.com/about/about-us/).
- **Entity Type**: Public (NASDAQ: RKLB) – went public via SPAC merger in August 2021 [en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocket_Lab).
- **Headquarters**: Long Beach, California, USA (with additional facilities in New Zealand, Virginia, Maryland, Colorado, Canada, and elsewhere) [rocketlabcorp.com](https://rocketlabcorp.com/about/about-us/).
- **Founded**: 2006
- **Founders**: Peter Beck

## Core Business
- **Primary industries**: Aerospace, space launch services, satellite manufacturing, and space systems components.
- **Target customers**: Commercial satellite operators, civil space agencies (NASA, NOAA), defence customers (U.S. Space Force, NRO), and research institutions.
- **Mission**: "Unlocking the potential of space to improve life on Earth" [rocketlabcorp.com](https://rocketlabcorp.com/careers/).

## Products & Services
- **Electron**: Small orbital launch vehicle – the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket, with over 75 missions as of January 2026 [en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocket_Lab). Also used for the suborbital HASTE hypersonic testbed.
- **Neutron**: Reusable medium-lift launch vehicle in development, targeting constellation deployment, interplanetary missions, and human spaceflight [rocketlabcorp.com](https://rocketlabcorp.com/about/about-us/).
- **Photon**: Spacecraft platform for Earth orbit, lunar, and interplanetary missions (e.g., NASA CAPSTONE, ESCAPADE to Mars).
- **Satellite Components & Subsystems**: Star trackers, reaction wheels, solar panels, electric propulsion, software-defined radios, separation systems, advanced composite structures, and flight/ground software. Rocket Lab’s space systems technology has enabled more than 1,700 missions globally [rocketlabcorp.com](https://rocketlabcorp.com/about/about-us/).

## Market Standing
- **Valuation / Market Cap**: Not provided in available sources (NASDAQ-traded; value fluctuates). The SPAC merger in 2021 was valued at approximately $4.1 billion, but current market cap should be verified via financial platforms.
- **Key Metric**: Over 2,600 employees globally as of May 2025 [en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocket_Lab); more than 700 in New Zealand alone.
- **Notable Investors / Partners**: Vector Acquisition Corporation (SPAC partner). Key customers include NASA, U.S. Space Force, NRO, NOAA, BlackSky, and OHB Group.
- **Growth Signals**: Development of Neutron; record launch cadence (9 missions in 2022); opening new manufacturing and test facilities (Middle River MD, Stennis MS, Warkworth NZ); successful lunar mission (CAPSTONE) and Mars mission award (ESCAPADE).

## Competitive Advantages
- **Vertical integration**: Rocket Lab designs and manufactures its own rockets, spacecraft, satellite components, and operates its own launch sites – reducing cost and lead time.
- **High launch frequency & reliability**: Electron is the most frequently launched small rocket globally, with rapid turnaround (as fast as 15 days).
- **Reusable rocket technology**: Neutron will bring reusability to the medium-lift class, further lowering per-mission costs.
- **Southern Hemisphere launch site**: Only private orbital launch site at Mahia, New Zealand, providing unique orbital inclinations.
- **Proven interplanetary capability**: First private company to reach the Moon with CAPSTONE and win a Mars mission (ESCAPADE).

## Strategic Focus
- Complete development, test, and first launch of the Neutron rocket from Launch Complex 3 at Wallops Island, Virginia.
- Expand spacecraft and component manufacturing to serve the growing defence, civil, and commercial satellite markets.
- Pursue interplanetary and human-spaceflight capabilities.
- Increase launch cadence and begin recovery and reuse of Electron first stages.

## Why Work Here
- **Culture**: Driven, mission-focused environment with emphasis on “Trust, Innovation, and Excellence”. Values include “We are the best at what we do” and “Together we are unstoppable” [rocketlabcorp.com](https://rocketlabcorp.com/careers/).
- **Work & locations**: Multiple offices, factories, test, and launch sites across the U.S., New Zealand, and Canada. Hybrid/remote policy not explicitly stated; most roles appear on-site at specific facilities.
- **Projects**: Hands-on work with cutting-edge rockets, interplanetary spacecraft, advanced composites, and space software.
- **Perks & benefits**: Not detailed on the careers page, but the company offers a collaborative environment, career growth across many disciplines (engineering, tech, operations, finance, etc.), and the opportunity to contribute to high-impact space missions.
- **EEO & accommodations**: Rocket Lab provides reasonable accommodations for job applicants with disabilities [rocketlabcorp.com](https://rocketlabcorp.com/careers/).

## Sources
1. [rocketlabcorp.com – About Us](https://rocketlabcorp.com/about/about-us/)
2. [rocketlabcorp.com – Careers](https://rocketlabcorp.com/careers/)
3. [en.wikipedia.org – Rocket Lab](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocket_Lab)
4. [linkedin.com – Rocket Lab](https://www.linkedin.com/company/rocket-lab-corp)
5. [job-boards.greenhouse.io – Rocket Lab (careers portal)](https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/rocketlab)

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