Lead, Recovery Operations

Lead, Recovery Operations We are actively seeking an individual to join the Neutron Recovery team in Baltimore, MD. The Lead, Recovery Operations will be a key stakeholder in developing, coordinating, and leading Neutron landing operations as part of the on‑console launch team. This role will control the recovery barge, related launch vehicle systems, and ensure a successful landing.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO

Lead the execution of Neutron landing and recovery operations, controlling recovery vessels/sites, flight‑proven boosters, and launch countdown automation from the control room. Optimize, coordinate, and troubleshoot offshore operations remotely with supporting engineering teams and a skilled technician workforce. Set up and operate remote control systems to facilitate marine vessel operations and Neutron landing. Complete post‑landing securing, safing, and monitoring of Neutron. Develop automation for Rocket Lab's marine and recovery system operations. Collaborate with Neutron launch operations, vehicle design, guidance navigation & control, avionics, and fluids teams to prepare and perform key operations. Identify and propose potential upgrades to marine and recovery hardware, software, and procedures, driving continuous improvement by interfacing regularly with various teams across Rocket Lab.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline. 5+ years of experience in a test, automation, dynamic positioning, and/or integration engineering role.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE

Experience working at a rocket launch/test facility and supporting launch/test campaigns. Experience working on marine systems including dynamic positioning, automation, engine room and pump room operations, ballast control room, bridge operations. Experience in control and monitoring of complex automated systems and risk assessment/reduction of the system. Experience working on projects that involve the integration of fluid, electrical, mechanical, and software systems. Experience testing and operating with or around hazardous systems (high pressure, high energy, hazardous gases and fluids, etc.). Familiarity with instrumentation and control components such as pressure transducers, thermocouples, RTDs, strain gauges, accelerometers, flow meters, load cells, relays, solenoids, pneumatic valves. Strong work ethic and drive to succeed balanced with the ability to work effectively in a team environment. Able to work in a fast‑paced, autonomously driven and demanding atmosphere. Strong project management skills. Able to communicate clearly and accurately with a wide range of people. Advanced degree in an engineering discipline.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to work in a high‑concentration, high‑stress environment; good response to problems posed by short deadlines and prolonged mental concentration. Willing to support offshore operations, including working recovery missions at sea averaging five or more days per quarter. Position may require long hours (10–12+ hour days) and weekend work. Willing to work in extreme outdoor environments—heat, cold, rain, wind, open ocean. Ability to climb ladders and work in tight/confined spaces. Willing to work with hazardous materials. Ability to perform job duties that require standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting upper body, working in cramped positions in small openings, climbing hand over hand, and lifting 25 lbs. Ability to operate heavy machinery.

BASE PAY RANGE (MD ONLY)

$107,200 – $134,000 USD

BENEFITS

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package. Employees may also receive company equity and a robust benefits package including top‑tier medical HMO, PPO, 100% company‑sponsored medical HSA plan, dental and vision coverage, three weeks paid vacation, five days sick leave per year, eleven paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include a discounted employee stock purchase program and free snacks/drinks onsite.

EEO STATEMENT

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. #J-18808-Ljbffr Rocket Lab USA