Test and Launch Engineer II - Vehicle

Rocket Lab Corporation • Wallops Island, VA

5d • $87,000 - $109,000

About The Position

Rocket Lab’s Test and Launch Operations team manages testing, launching, and mission operations for Electron and Neutron rockets, including facility and equipment oversight. Test and Launch Engineers serve as mission controllers: they develop procedures, conduct real-time operations, analyze data, and help ensure safe, reliable launches from Mission Control. The Engineer II is an advanced operator role with responsibility for independently managing console operations, mentoring junior staff, and leading projects that improve procedures and systems. This engineer supports continuous operational improvement across Electron and Neutron missions.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, preferably Aerospace, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering.
• At least 2 years of engineering design, test, and/or operations experience focused on mechanical, propulsion, or fluid systems.
• At least 4 years of experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

Nice To Haves

• At least 3 years of engineering design, test, and/or operations experience.
• 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 vehicles or spacecraft, including 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.
• Solid understanding of and experience working with fluid, cryogenic, pressurized, or hazardous systems.
• Good understanding of or experience with real-time hazardous operations.
• Experience with rocket propulsion systems or engine testing.
• Experience with spacecraft or crew-rated vehicle systems.
• Knowledge of high-pressure gas systems and propellant handling.
• Experience developing operational procedures, test plans, or HMIs.
• Background in real-time data analysis and troubleshooting.

Responsibilities

• Operate as a vehicle-systems console operator in Mission Control during test campaigns, rehearsals, and launch operations.
• Develop and maintain test plans, operational procedures, and checklists for vehicle operations.
• Develop and improve Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) for monitoring and controlling vehicle systems.
• Participate in operational readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals.
• Troubleshoot vehicle-system issues and analyze data in real time during live operations.
• Conduct post-test and post-launch data analysis to support continuous improvement.
• Develop, integrate, and test mechanical and propulsion systems for Electron and Neutron launch vehicles.
• Oversee configuration and checkout of launch vehicle systems, including propulsion units, fluid systems, and mechanical assemblies.
• Lead and manage launch vehicle systems testing projects, including static testing and integrated stage hot-fire testing.
• Mentor and train other Test and Launch Operations operators on launch vehicle mechanical and propulsion systems.
• Author, review, and execute vehicle-systems operating procedures.
• Support development of Neutron vehicle operations procedures.
• Complete instructional training and qualify as an Electron launch operator.

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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level