Lead, Test & Launch Operations Engineer

Rocket Lab•Long Beach, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Rocket Lab is hiring a senior operational leader to oversee end-to-end testing, launch, and mission operations for Electron and Neutron launch vehicles at Launch Complex 3 in Wallops Island, Virginia. The role includes responsibility for launch pad ground systems, fluid systems, facilities, and infrastructure, as well as operational readiness and the capability of the engineer’s discipline area. The position balances Mission Control operations, team leadership, and strategic planning for future capabilities and increased launch cadence. The engineer leads a team, serves as the primary technical authority for assigned systems during mission-critical operations, and coordinates across disciplines to resolve complex problems and improve processes. They develop operational concepts, procedures, test plans, training programs, and qualification matrices; conduct readiness reviews and mission rehearsals; operate launch pad systems during campaigns and launches; and analyze operational data to identify anomalies and improvements. The role also supports development of Neutron ground systems procedures and testing campaigns. The position may involve prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, and computer work, with occasional exposure to moderate noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

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.
For U.S. office candidates, must meet the stated U.S. government space technology export-control eligibility requirements or be eligible to obtain required authorizations.

Nice To Haves

Experience working in Mission Control or similar operational control environments.
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 as a Mission Control console operator 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 ground systems test plans, operational procedures, and checklists.
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.
Troubleshoot and analyze data 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 procedures and testing campaigns.
Manage operational projects and ensure the readiness and capability of the discipline area.
Serve as the primary technical authority for assigned systems during mission-critical operations.
Coordinate across disciplines to resolve complex issues, improve processes, and scale procedures and infrastructure for increased launch cadence.