Test and Launch Operations Engineer I

Test and Launch Operations Engineers are responsible for taking years of design and manufacturing to flight in the operation of launch vehicles. As a member of Rocket Lab's Test & Launch Operations team, you will be directly responsible for operating the Electron HASTE and Neutron launch vehicles from the control room throughout all phases of integrated systems testing and launch operations. You will execute complex test sequences, monitor real-time avionics data, make critical go/no-go decisions, and command Avionics systems during countdown and flight operations.

This role is within the Avionics discipline, responsible for Avionics Hardware and software, Radio Frequency (RF) systems, Ground Segment, Telemetry, Networking and all Avionics operations that enable launch.

• •Operate Electron and Neutron Avionics as a launch console operator during tests, rehearsals, and launches.
• •Support development, integration, and testing of Avionics systems.
• •Lead and execute testing campaigns, including Avionics Integrated Systems testing and readiness checks.
• •Manage configuration and verification of Avionics hardware and systems.
• •Develop operational procedures, test plans, and emergency response protocols.
• •Design and improve HMIs for Avionics systems to enhance operator efficiency.
• •Troubleshoot and resolve real-time issues during test and launch operations.

• •Bachelor's Degree in Engineering (preferably Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, or Mechatronic Engineering)
• •1+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations, electrical/software engineering
• •2+ years of relevant experience will be considered in lieu of a degree

• +2+ years of experience in engineering design, test, and/or operations
• +Background in Avionics equipment design/operations
• +Solid understanding and hands-on experience working with Avionics Hardware/Software, RF systems, Ground Segment, Telemetry Tracking and Command
• +Good understanding and practical experience conducting real-time hazardous operations with Avionics Systems
• +Experience developing operational procedures, test plans, CONOPS documentation, or emergency response procedures

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.

$100,000 — $113,000 USD

Base Salary

$76,000 — $95,000 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.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here .