Lead, Test & Launch Operations Engineer

Rocket Lab Corporation•Wallops Island, VA

1d•$107,000 - $147,000•Onsite

About The Position

Rocket Lab is hiring a Lead, Test & Launch Operations Engineer based at Launch Complex 3 in Wallops Island, Virginia. The role oversees end-to-end testing, launch, and mission operations for Electron and Neutron launch vehicles, including the configuration and operation of related facilities and infrastructure. The position is focused on avionics hardware, software, and ground station systems. As a senior operational leader, this engineer leads teams, manages operational projects, and ensures the readiness and capability of the avionics discipline. The role includes Mission Control console operations during test campaigns, rehearsals, and launches; developing procedures and training; conducting readiness reviews; and serving as the primary technical authority for avionics systems during mission-critical operations. The position also coordinates across disciplines to resolve complex issues, improves processes, and scales operational procedures and infrastructure to support increasing launch cadence. The role balances Mission Control operations, team leadership, and strategic planning for future operational capabilities. Rocket Lab offers company stock and a benefits package that includes an Employee Stock Purchase Program, medical, dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan with company match, and other discounts and perks. The expected base salary range is $107,000–$147,000 USD; total compensation including base salary and equity is $149,000–$174,000 USD.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in electrical, computer, aerospace, software engineering, or another technical discipline.
At least 5 years of engineering experience with avionics systems, RF systems, telemetry, flight software, or launch vehicle operations.
Demonstrated proficiency with avionics hardware, flight software systems, and ground station operations.
Experience with high-reliability software systems and safety-critical aerospace software.
Experience with RF systems, ground stations, telemetry systems, or avionics networking infrastructure.
Demonstrated leadership competencies, including change management, conflict resolution, knowing when to escalate or request help, and effective team management.
Understanding of operations involving complex software and hardware systems.
Experience developing operational procedures and test plans, and conducting mission simulations.
Ability to meet applicable U.S. ITAR eligibility requirements for candidates working in U.S. offices.

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 or spacecraft avionics, including integration, testing, launch, or mission operations.
Experience with flight software development, verification, or operations.
Experience with ground station operations, RF link analysis, or telemetry processing.
Track record of leading teams.
Experience with real-time embedded systems or flight control software.
Knowledge of DO-178C or other software certification standards.
Experience with data acquisition systems and real-time monitoring systems.
Experience developing human-machine interfaces for operational monitoring and control systems.

Responsibilities

Lead and manage engineers responsible for avionics hardware, software, and ground station systems for Electron and Neutron launch operations.
Operate as the avionics console operator in Mission Control during test campaigns, rehearsals, and launch operations.
Develop and maintain Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for avionics systems, flight software, and ground networks.
Create and continuously improve avionics test plans, operational procedures, and checklists.
Design and implement human-machine interfaces for avionics monitoring, telemetry display, and ground station control.
Lead operational readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals for avionics operations.
Perform real-time troubleshooting and data analysis during live operations to resolve avionics and communication system anomalies.
Conduct post-test and post-launch data analysis to identify trends, anomalies, and improvement opportunities.
Develop training programs and qualification matrices to prepare operators for console positions.
Lead structured root-cause analysis and corrective-action programs for avionics anomalies.
Drive development of Neutron avionics operations procedures and testing campaigns.
Manage operational projects and ensure the overall readiness and capability of the avionics discipline.
Serve as the primary technical authority for avionics systems during mission-critical operations.
Coordinate across disciplines to resolve complex issues, drive process improvements, and scale procedures and infrastructure for increased launch cadence.