Lead, Test & Launch Operations Engineer
About The Position
Rocket Lab is hiring a senior operational leader for launch pad test and launch operations at Launch Complex 3 in Wallops Island, Virginia. The role is responsible for end-to-end testing, launch, and mission operations for Electron and Neutron launch vehicles, including the configuration and operation of associated facilities and infrastructure. The engineer leads teams, manages operational projects, and ensures the readiness and capability of the launch pad systems discipline. The position balances Mission Control console operations with team leadership and strategic planning for future operational capabilities. It includes developing training programs, conducting operational readiness reviews, serving as the primary technical authority for assigned systems during mission-critical operations, coordinating across disciplines to resolve complex issues, and improving procedures and infrastructure to support a growing launch cadence. The role may involve prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, and computer work, as well as occasional exposure to moderate noise, dust, and fumes in production areas. The position is based at Rocket Lab’s Launch Complex 3 in Wallops Island, Virginia. U.S. employment is subject to applicable ITAR eligibility requirements.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, electrical, chemical engineering, or another technical field.
- At least 5 years of engineering experience in ground systems, industrial controls, fluid systems, or launch operations.
- Proficiency with ground support equipment, industrial control systems (including PLCs and automated sequencing), and launch pad systems.
- Experience with cryogenic systems, pressurization systems, propellant handling, and launch vehicle tanking operations.
- Experience in high-reliability ground systems design, testing, or operations.
- Demonstrated leadership competencies, including change management, conflict resolution, escalation, and effective team management.
- Understanding of hazardous operations and ground systems safety protocols.
- Experience developing operational procedures and test plans, and conducting mission simulations.
- Ability to meet applicable U.S. Government space technology export authorization requirements for work in U.S. offices.
Nice To Haves
- Experience working in Mission Control or a similar operational control environment.
- Aviation, aircrew, or flight test experience as an alternative background.
- Hands-on experience with launch vehicle ground operations at an active launch site.
- Experience leading ground systems testing programs or static test campaigns.
- Track record of leading teams.
- Solid understanding of fluid systems and high-pressure gas systems.
- Experience developing HMIs for operational monitoring and control systems.
- Background in real-time data analysis and troubleshooting during live operations.
Responsibilities
- Lead and manage engineers responsible for launch pad ground systems, fluid systems, and infrastructure for Electron and Neutron launch operations.
- Operate launch pad systems from Mission Control during test campaigns, rehearsals, and launch operations.
- Develop and maintain Concepts of Operations (CONOPS) for launch pad systems and ground support equipment.
- Create and continuously improve test plans, operational procedures, and checklists for ground systems operations.
- Design and implement Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) for ground systems monitoring and control.
- Lead operational readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals for ground systems operations.
- Perform real-time troubleshooting and data analysis during live operations to resolve ground systems anomalies.
- Analyze post-test and post-launch data to identify trends, anomalies, and opportunities for improvement.
- Develop training programs and qualification matrices to prepare operators for console positions.
- Lead structured root-cause analysis and corrective-action programs for ground systems anomalies.
- Drive development of Neutron ground systems operations procedures and testing campaigns.
- Manage operational projects and ensure the overall readiness and capability of the discipline area.
- Coordinate across disciplines to resolve complex issues, improve processes, and help operational procedures and infrastructure scale with increasing launch cadence.
- Serve as the primary technical authority for assigned systems during mission-critical operations.
Benefits
- Company stock as part of total compensation.
- Employee Stock Purchase Program with a 15% discount on company stock.
- Medical plans.
- Dental coverage.
- Vision coverage.
- Paid vacation and sick time.
- 11 paid holidays.
- Flexible spending and dependent care accounts.
- Paid parental leave.
- Disability insurance.
- Life insurance.
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
- Other discounts and perks.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
