Senior Vehicle Test and Launch Engineer
About The Position
Rocket Lab’s Test and Launch Operations team is responsible for testing, launch, and mission operations for the Electron and Neutron launch vehicles, from stack testing and pre-launch processing through launch and on-orbit operations. Integrated Operations also configures, checks out, and operates associated facilities, equipment, and infrastructure. The Test and Launch Engineer needs a detailed understanding of disciplines related to testing and operations and will develop or apply skills across multiple operational roles. The role may include directing, mentoring, and training other operators, as well as taking a leadership or ownership role in testing and operations projects and process or tool development. The position may be hired at Engineer II or Senior Engineer level. The successful candidate will develop, integrate, and test mechanical systems for Electron and Neutron launch vehicles; oversee launch vehicle system configuration and checkout; lead testing projects, including static tests and integrated stage hot-fire tests; develop operational concepts and human-machine interfaces for vehicle stage and engine hardware; troubleshoot real-time test and operations issues; and author, review, and execute operational procedures.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, preferably aerospace, mechanical, electrical, or mechatronic engineering.
- At least 5 years of engineering design, test, and/or operations experience focused on mechanical or propulsion systems.
- At least 9 years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with launch vehicles or spacecraft, including integration, testing, launch, or mission operations.
- Experience with integrated stage thermal/fluid systems design, testing, or operations, and/or experience in a propulsion test or operations environment.
- A solid understanding of and experience working with fluid, cryogenic, pressurized, or hazardous systems.
- A good understanding of and experience with real-time hazardous operations.
Responsibilities
- Develop, integrate, and test mechanical systems relating to Electron and Neutron launch vehicles.
- Oversee the configuration and checkout of launch vehicle systems.
- Lead and manage launch vehicle system testing projects, including static testing and integrated stage hot-fire testing.
- Mentor and train Integrated Operations team operators on launch vehicle mechanical and propulsion systems.
- Develop Concept of Operations (CONOPS) and Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) related to vehicle stage and engine hardware.
- Perform real-time troubleshooting to resolve test and operations issues.
- Author, review, and carry out operations procedures.
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
