Test and Launch Operations Engineer I
About The Position
Rocket Lab’s Test and Launch Operations Engineers take launch vehicles from design and manufacturing through flight operations. In the Avionics discipline, this engineer operates Electron HASTE and Neutron launch vehicles from the control room during integrated systems testing and launches. The work includes executing test sequences, monitoring real-time avionics data, making go/no-go decisions, and commanding avionics systems during countdown and flight operations. The discipline covers avionics hardware and software, radio frequency systems, ground segment, telemetry, networking, and launch-enabling avionics operations.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, preferably Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, or Mechatronic Engineering.
- At least 1 year of experience in engineering design, testing and/or operations, or electrical/software engineering.
- At least 2 years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
Nice To Haves
- At least 2 years of experience in engineering design, testing, and/or operations.
- Background in avionics equipment design or operations.
- Solid understanding and hands-on experience with avionics hardware/software, RF systems, ground segment, and telemetry tracking and command.
- Good understanding of and practical experience conducting real-time hazardous operations with avionics systems.
- Experience developing operational procedures, test plans, CONOPS documentation, or emergency response procedures.
Responsibilities
- Operate Electron and Neutron avionics as a launch console operator during tests, rehearsals, and launches.
- Support the development, integration, and testing of avionics systems.
- Lead and execute testing campaigns, including avionics integrated systems testing and readiness checks.
- Manage configuration and verification of avionics hardware and systems.
- Develop operational procedures, test plans, and emergency response protocols.
- Design and improve human-machine interfaces (HMIs) for avionics systems to enhance operator efficiency.
- Troubleshoot and resolve real-time issues during test and launch operations.
- Execute complex test sequences, monitor real-time avionics data, make go/no-go decisions, and command avionics systems during countdown and flight operations.
Benefits
- Company stock as part of total compensation.
- Employee Stock Purchase Program with a 15% discount on company stock.
- Medical plans.
- Dental and vision coverage.
- Paid vacation and sick time.
- 11 paid holidays.
- Flexible spending and dependent care accounts.
- Paid parental leave.
- Disability and life insurance.
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
- Other discounts and perks.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
