Lead, Test & Launch Operations Engineer - Vehicle

Rocket Lab Corporation•Wallops Island, VA

1d•$107,000 - $147,000•Onsite

About The Position

Based at Rocket Lab’s Launch Complex 3 in Wallops Island, Virginia, the Lead Test and Launch Operations Engineer is responsible for end-to-end testing, launch, and mission operations for Electron and Neutron launch vehicles, including configuration and operation of related facilities and infrastructure. This senior operational leader oversees engineering teams, manages operational projects, and ensures the readiness and capability of the vehicle discipline area. The role develops training programs, conducts operational readiness reviews, and serves as the primary technical authority for assigned systems during mission-critical operations. It coordinates across disciplines to resolve complex issues, improves processes, and ensures procedures and infrastructure can support an increasing launch cadence. Time is divided between Mission Control operations, team leadership, and strategic planning for future operational capabilities.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, chemical engineering, or another technical field.
5–8+ years of engineering experience with propulsion systems, aviation, launch vehicles, or spacecraft; aviation or aircrew experience may be considered as an alternative.
Demonstrated proficiency with rocket propulsion systems and fluid/thermal systems.
Experience with high-reliability aerospace systems design, testing, or operations.
Experience with vehicle tanking, propellant handling, and pressurized fluid systems.
Demonstrated leadership competencies, including change management, conflict resolution, knowing when to escalate or request help, and effective team management.
Understanding of hazardous operations and propulsion-system safety protocols.
Experience developing operational procedures and test plans, and conducting mission simulations.

Nice To Haves

Experience working in Mission Control or a similar operational control environment.
Aviation, aircrew, or flight-test experience may be considered as an alternative.
Experience with launch vehicle integration, testing, launch, or mission operations.
Experience with integrated stage thermal/fluid systems design, testing, or operations, and/or in a propulsion test or operations environment.
Experience with spacecraft or crew-rated vehicle systems.
A track record of leading teams.
Experience leading hot-fire testing programs or static test campaigns.
A solid understanding of cryogenic systems and high-pressure gas systems.
Experience developing HMIs for operational monitoring and control systems.

Responsibilities

Lead and manage engineers responsible for vehicle mechanical, propulsion, and fluid systems for Electron and Neutron launch operations.
Operate vehicle systems consoles in Mission Control during test campaigns, rehearsals, and launches.
Develop and maintain Concepts of Operations (CONOPS) for vehicle mechanical and propulsion systems.
Create and continually improve vehicle operational test plans, procedures, and checklists.
Design and implement human-machine interfaces (HMIs) for vehicle system monitoring and control.
Lead operational readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals.
Troubleshoot vehicle system anomalies and analyze data during live operations.
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 vehicle anomalies.
Drive development of Neutron vehicle operations 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 and improve processes and operational capabilities.