Senior Engineer - Test & Launch Operations

ABOUT ROCKET LAB:
Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

ABOUT THE ROLE:
The Senior Engineer - Test & Launch Operations position focuses on providing technical expertise and project ownership in Rocket Lab Test and Launch Operations, ensuring operational improvements and filling key on-console operations roles. The role involves hands-on technical leadership, improving operations activities, facilitating problem-solving across teams, and supporting key test and launch operations activities as an operator.

Key responsibilities include performing operator duties during test and launch campaigns, training new team members, and managing complex inter-team projects covering operational improvements, quality assurance and quality-of-life upgrades. The position also emphasizes maintaining engineering best practices and contributing consistently across test and launch operations.

The position demands a results-driven approach, with a focus on executing high-priority projects on time and within budget. The Senior Engineer - Test and Launch Operations will demonstrate persistence, creativity, and a willingness to challenge the status quo to deliver solutions. They must be adaptable, and committed to driving accountability through metrics, while maintaining a "no job too tough" attitude to ensure the success of the Test and Launch Operations team.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Engineering, Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical, Mechatronics or related field
• 5+ years’ experience in relevant industry
• Ability to read, understand and follow detailed schematics, drawings, and instructions
• Self-driven, motivated, and contagiously positive
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships
• Careful work ethic with an eye for detail
• Ability to work under pressure and to strict deadlines
• Ability to work at heights and in confined spaces

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• 5+ years’ experience in engineering, test and/or operations
• 2+ years’ experience in leading time critical multi-disciplinary engineering operations or equivalent
• Experience working with launch vehicles or spacecraft including integration, testing, launch, and/or mission operations
• Experience with CAD systems
• Experience with Java, Python, or other object-oriented programming language
• Experience with LabVIEW and PLC development for data acquisition & real-time control

Salary dependent upon experience: NZD$ 96,000 - NZD$ 121,850

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.