Test engineering tech

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.
S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. As a reusable platform, Neutron will deliver a very cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab's proven history with Electron – the second most launched rocket, worldwide, in 2024. HASTE (Hypersonic Accelerator Suborbital Test Electron) is a specialized variant of Rocket Lab's proven Electron launch vehicle, designed to support hypersonic flight testing and research missions. Operating from Rocket Lab's Launch Complex 3 at Wallops Island, Virginia, Electron HASTE provides a unique capability to deliver hypersonic test vehicles to the required flight conditions for cutting-edge aerodynamic and propulsion research. The program represents an exciting evolution of the Electron platform, supporting critical national defense and aerospace research objectives while maintaining Rocket Lab's commitment to rapid, reliable launch operations.

TEST AND LAUNCH ENGINEER II – LAUNCH PAD

The Test and Launch Operations team at Rocket Lab manages all aspects of testing, launching, and mission operations for the Electron and Neutron rockets, including facility and equipment oversight. Test and Launch Engineers serve as mission controllers, developing procedures, conducting real-time operations, analyzing data, and ensuring safe and reliable launches from Mission Control. They are responsible for troubleshooting issues, leading training exercises, and making critical decisions during live missions. Test and Launch Engineer II position is an advanced role for operators who can independently manage console operations, mentor junior staff, and lead projects to improve procedures and systems. Work in Mission Control as a console operator for launch pad systems during test campaigns, rehearsals, and launch operations

• Develop and maintain test plans, operational procedures, and checklists for ground systems operations
• Participate in operational readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals
• Perform real-time troubleshooting and data analysis during live operations to resolve ground systems issues
• Conduct post-test and post-launch data analysis to support continuous improvement efforts
• Oversee the configuration and checkout of launch pad systems including GSE, fluid systems, and industrial controls
• Lead and manage testing projects for ground systems, including cryogenic loading tests, pressurization system checkouts, and integrated pad operations
• Mentor and train other operators within the Test and Launch Operations team on launch pad systems and ground operations
• Author, review and carry out operations procedures for launch pad systems
• Support the development of Neutron ground systems and operations procedures
• Receive instructional training and become qualified as a launch operator on Electron launch vehicles

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (preferably Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, or Chemical Engineering)

• 2+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations, with focus on ground systems, industrial controls, or fluid systems
• 3+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations
• Experience with launch vehicles or spacecraft including integration, testing, launch, or mission operations
• Experience with ground support equipment, launch pad systems, or industrial control systems
• Good understanding/experience of real-time hazardous operations
• Experience with PLCs, SCADA systems, or automated control sequences
• Knowledge of propellant handling operations
• Background in real-time data analysis and troubleshooting

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.

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; 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., S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.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.
Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. 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.