Senior Vehicle Test and Launch Engineer

The Test and Launch Operations team at Rocket Lab is responsible for testing, launch, and mission operations of Electron and Neutron launch vehicle. Starting with stack testing through pre-launch processing, launch operations, and on-orbit operations. Integrated Operations is also responsible for configuration, checkout, and operation of related facilities, equipment, and infrastructure.

The Test and Launch Engineer will have a detailed understanding of disciplines related to testing and operations. The Engineer will have or develop skills in multiple operational roles, including roles where they will direct, mentor, and train other operators. In addition, the Engineer II will take a leadership/ownership role in testing and operations projects and process or tool development efforts.

(Please note - this role can be hired on at a Engineer II or Senior Engineer level)

• •Develop, integrate, and test mechanical systems relating to the Electron and Neutron launch vehicles
• •Oversee the configuration and checkout of launch vehicle systems
• •Lead and manage testing projects for launch vehicle systems, including static testing and integrated stage hot fire testing
• •Mentor and train other operators within the Integrated Operations team on launch vehicle mechanical and propulsion systems
• •Develop Concept of Operations (CONOPS) and Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) related to vehicle stage and engine hardware
• •Perform real-time troubleshooting to resolve test/operations issues
• •Author, review and carry out operations procedures

• •Bachelor Degree in Engineering (preferably Aerospace, mechanical, electrical or mechatronic engineering)
• •5+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations, in the focus of mechanical or propulsion systems
• •9+ years of experience will be considered in lieu of a degree

• +Experience with launch vehicles or spacecraft including integration, testing, launch, or mission operations
• +Experience with integrated stage thermal/fluid systems design/test/operations, and/or experience in a propulsion test/operations environment
• +Solid understanding and experience working with fluid/ cryogenic/ pressurized/ hazardous systems
• +Good understanding/experience of real-time hazardous operations

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.

Anticipated annual equity grant value is designed around function, level, experience, and other factors; realized value depends on vesting and stock-price performance.

Join one of the world's fastest-growing space companies and own a piece of it. In addition to competitive base pay, you'll receive company stock as part of your total compensation package , giving you a direct stake in our success. As we expand to new launch sites, groundbreaking missions, and global markets, your ownership has the opportunity to grow alongside the company.

Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock), top-tier medical plans, 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, 401(k) retirement plan with company match, and other discounts and perks.

$115,000 — $164,000 USD

Base Salary

$100,000 — $125,000 USD

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.

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