Vehicle Test and Launch Engineer

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity’s reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

NEUTRON  

Neutron is a medium-lift launch vehicle being developed by Rocket Lab, a publicly traded end-to-end space company. The rocket can deliver the mega constellations of tomorrow, enable interplanetary payloads, and support human spaceflight. As a reusable platform, Neutron will deliver a very cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven history with Electron – the third most launched rocket, worldwide, in 2024. If you’re interested in joining an incredible team in a fast-paced and rewarding environment, this is your opportunity.  

SENIOR VEHICLE TEST AND LAUNCH ENGINEER

The Test and Launch Operations team at Rocket Lab is responsible for testing, launch, and mission operations of Electron and Neutron launch vehicle. Starting with stack testing through pre-launch processing, launch operations, and on-orbit operations. Integrated Operations is also responsible for configuration, checkout, and operation of related facilities, equipment, and infrastructure.  

The Test and Launch Engineer will have a detailed understanding of disciplines related to testing and operations. The Engineer will have or develop skills in multiple operational roles, including roles where they will direct, mentor, and train other operators. In addition, the Engineer II will take a leadership/ownership role in testing and operations projects and process or tool development efforts. 

(Please note - this role can be hired on at a Engineer II or Senior Engineer level) 

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:  

• Develop, integrate, and test mechanical systems relating to the Electron and Neutron launch vehicles 
• Oversee the configuration and checkout of launch vehicle systems 
• Lead and manage testing projects for launch vehicle systems, including static testing and integrated stage hot fire testing 
• Mentor and train other operators within the Integrated Operations team 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/operations issues 
• Author, review and carry out operations procedures  

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR VEHICLE TEST AND LAUNCH ENGINEER: 

• Bachelor Degree in Engineering (preferably Aerospace, mechanical, electrical or  mechatronic engineering) 
• 5+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations, in the focus of mechanical or propulsion systems
• 9+ years of experience will be considered in lieu of a degree

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:  

• Experience with launch vehicles or spacecraft including integration, testing, launch, or mission operations 
• Experience with integrated stage thermal/fluid systems design/test/operations, and/or experience in a propulsion test/operations environment 
• Solid understanding and experience working with fluid/ cryogenic/ pressurized/ hazardous systems 
• Good understanding/experience of real-time hazardous operations  

 This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Anticipated annual equity grant value is designed around function, level, experience, and other factors; realized value depends on vesting and stock-price performance.

Join one of the world's fastest-growing space companies and own a piece of it. In addition to competitive base pay, you'll receive company stock as part of your total compensation package, giving you a direct stake in our success. As we expand to new launch sites, groundbreaking missions, and global markets, your ownership has the opportunity to grow alongside the company.

Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock), top-tier 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, and other discounts and perks.

The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the state of Virginia’s pay transparency requirements. Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Total Compensation (base and equity)$115,000—$164,000 USDBase Salary$100,000—$125,000 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT 

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.   

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant.  These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations. 

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality.  For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.