> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/2185479-senior-machine-learning-engineer-ii](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/2185479-senior-machine-learning-engineer-ii). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Senior Machine Learning Engineer II - **Company:** Rocket Lab - **Location:** Tucson, AZ, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Artificial Intelligence, Artificial Neural Networks, Computer Vision, Software Bug Management, Continuous Integration, Python (Programming Language), Machine Learning, Object Detection, Rapid Prototyping Process, Tensorflow, Visual Systems, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Feature Engineering, Data Ingestion, Pytorch, Deep Learning, Model Validation, Keras, Containerization, Information Technology, Operational Systems, Machine Learning Operations, Software Version Control - **Published:** August 22, 2026 - **Apply:** https://diversityjobs.com/main/sendform/8/8/28176/1/18028408?backUrl=%2Fcareer%2F18028408%2FSenior-Machine-Learning-Engineer-Ii-Arizona-Tucson ## About the Role * Bachelor's degree and 8+ years of experience, master's degree and 6+ years of experience, or a Ph.D. in Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or related field * Strong background in machine learning including model selection, architecting, training, validation, testing, and deployment * Experience in building deep learning neural network for computer vision, image processing, or video analysis (e.g., object detection, image segmentation, and tracking) * Strong math background, particularly linear algebra * Proficiency in Python * Experience with deep learning libraries (Keras, TensorFlow, Pytorch, etc) * Software engineering fundamentals: version control, testing, CI/CD, containerization * S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements * Ability to obtain and maintain an U.S. Government Security Clearance NICE TO HAVE: * Proficiency in C/C++/Rust * Experience curating quality, real-world datasets for training deep learning models * TS/SCI security clearance 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. 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. ## Description As a Senior Machine Learning Engineer II based at our Optical Systems sites in Tucson, AZ, you will have the opportunity to support Tranche 3 of the U.S. Space Development Agency's (SDA) Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) and beyond by building deep learning neural networks for advanced Electro-Optical (EO/IR) image processing. WHAT YOU'LL DO * Contribute your experience to developing solutions for real-world problems. * Design, train, and deploy machine learning models for Optical Systems applications * Build and maintain ML pipelines for data ingestion, feature engineering, training, and inference. * Collaborate with other researchers/engineers on artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computer vision. * Preform rapid prototyping and enhanced development to be integrated into operational systems. * Perform troubleshooting, bug fixes, and maintenance of existing and new systems. * Stay current with ML research and evaluate new tools, frameworks, and techniques ## Related Videos - [Machine learning in the browser with TensorFlowjs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/155-machine-learning-in-the-browser-with-tensorflowjs) - [Robots are coming into the wild! Full-Stack Robotics Engineers, be ready!](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/479-robots-are-coming-into-the-wild-full-stack-robotics-engineers-be-ready) - [Photonic Computing: Programming a New Class of AI Accelerators (incl. Live Coding)](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100196-photonic-computing-programming-a-new-class-of-ai-accelerators-incl-live-coding) - [Overview of Machine Learning in Python](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/840-overview-of-machine-learning-in-python) - [Geometric deep learning for drug discovery](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/264-geometric-deep-learning-for-drug-discovery) - [Developing an AI.SDK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/198-developing-an-ai-sdk) ## Related Articles - [How to Become an AI Engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/331-how-to-become-an-ai-engineer) - [What Are Large Language Models?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/304-what-are-large-language-models) - [Prompt Engineering is a Job of the Past](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/342-prompt-engineering-is-a-job-of-the-past) - [Dev Digest 121 - AI goes offline](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/456-dev-digest-121-ai-goes-offline) - [MLOps – What’s the deal behind it?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/125-mlops-what-s-the-deal-behind-it) - [Dev Digest 137 - AI'm not sure about this](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/485-dev-digest-137-ai-m-not-sure-about-this)