Senior Avionics Test and Launch Engineer

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.

NEUTRON

Neutron is a medium-lift launch vehicle being developed by Rocket Lab, a publicly traded end-to-end space company. The rocket can deliver the mega constellations of tomorrow, enable interplanetary payloads, and support human spaceflight. As a reusable platform, Neutron will deliver a very cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven history with Electron – the third most launched rocket, worldwide, in 2024. If you’re interested in joining an incredible team in a fast-paced and rewarding environment, this is your opportunity.

AVIONICS TEST AND LAUNCH ENGINEER II / SENIOR

This role is part of the Test and Launch Engineering team at Rocket Lab which is the division 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.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Develop, integrate, and test avionics and electrical systems for Electron and Neutron launch vehicles
• Oversee the configuration and checkout of avionics systems
• Lead and manage testing projects for avionics and electrical systems
• Mentor and train other operators within the Integrated Operations team on avionics and electrical systems
• Develop Concept of Operations (CONOPS) and Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) related to ground- and vehicle- electrical hardware
• Author, review and carry out operations procedures

NOTE: This position can be hired as a Level II Engineer or a Senior Engineer I level.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A LEVEL II ENGINEER:

• Bachelor Degree in Engineering (preferably Aerospace, mechanical, electrical or mechatronic engineering)
• 2+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations, in the focus of electrical/software engineering

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR ENGINEER I:

• 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 electrical/software engineering

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience with launch vehicles or spacecraft including integration, testing, launch, or mission operations
• Experience with Java, Python, or other object-oriented programming language
• Software development skills with solid understanding and experience working with web-based tools such as HTML and XML
• Good understanding of networking required with knowledge and experience in TCP/IP, UDP, multicast protocols, and packet switching and routing
• Knowledge of and/or experience with electrical systems

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.

The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the state of Virginia’s pay transparency requirements. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience.

Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab’s compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab’s Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.

Base Pay Range (VA Only) $100,000 — $135,000 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 .

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.