Lead Test And Launch Operations Engineer

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.  

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope. 

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 second 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.  

HASTE  

HASTE (Hypersonic Accelerator Suborbital Test Electron) is a specialized variant of Rocket Lab's proven Electron launch vehicle, designed to support hypersonic flight testing and research missions. Operating from Rocket Lab's Launch Complex 2 at Wallops Island, Virginia, Electron HASTE provides a unique capability to deliver hypersonic test vehicles to the required flight conditions for cutting-edge aerodynamic and propulsion research. The program represents an exciting evolution of the Electron platform, supporting critical national defense and aerospace research objectives while maintaining Rocket Lab's commitment to rapid, reliable launch operations.  

Lead Test & Launch Engineer – Launch Pad 

Based out of Rocket Lab’s Launch Complex 3 in Wallops Island, VA, the Lead Test and Launch Operations Engineer are responsible for the end-to-end testing, launch, and mission operations of Electron and Neutron launch vehicles, including the configuration and operation of related facilities and infrastructure. As a senior operational leader, you will oversee teams of engineers, manage operational projects, and ensure the readiness and capability of your discipline area. You will develop training programs, conduct operational readiness reviews, and serve as the primary technical authority for your systems during mission-critical operations. In this role, you will coordinate across disciplines to resolve complex issues, drive process improvements, and ensure operational procedures and infrastructure scale to support an increasing launch cadence. The Lead Test and Launch Operations Engineer balances time between Mission Control operations, team leadership, and strategic planning for future operational capabilities. 

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:  

• Lead and manage a team of Engineers responsible for launch pad ground systems, fluid systems, and infrastructure for Electron and Neutron launch operations  

• Work in Mission Control as the console operator for launch pad systems during test campaigns, rehearsals, and launch operations  

• Develop and maintain Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for launch pad  systems and ground support equipment  

• Create and continuously improve test plans, operational procedures, and checklists for ground systems operations  

• Design and implement Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) for ground systems monitoring and control  

• Lead operational readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals for ground systems operations  

• Perform real-time troubleshooting and data analysis during live operations to resolve ground systems anomalies  

• Conduct post-test and post-launch data analysis to identify trends, anomalies, and improvement opportunities  

• Develop comprehensive training programs and qualification matrices to ensure operators are prepared for console positions  

• Lead structured root-cause analysis and corrective action programs for ground systems anomalies  

• Drive the development of Neutron ground systems operations procedures and testing campaigns  

• Responsible for leading teams of engineers, managing operational projects, and ensuring the overall readiness and capability of their discipline area. 

• Develop training programs, conduct operational readiness reviews, and serve as the primary technical authority for their systems during mission-critical operations 

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, electrical, chemical engineering, or other technical field 

• 5-8+ years of engineering experience in ground systems, industrial controls, fluid systems, or launch operations 

• Proficiency with ground support equipment, industrial control systems (including PLCs and automated sequencing), and launch pad systems 

• Experience with cryogenic systems, pressurization systems, propellant handling, and launch vehicle tanking operations 

• Experience in high-reliability ground systems design, testing, or operations 

• Demonstrated leadership competencies, including change management, conflict resolution, escalation, and effective team management 

• Understanding of hazardous operations and safety protocols for ground systems 

• Experience developing operational procedures, test plans, and conducting mission simulations 

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: 

• Experience working in Mission Control or similar operational control environments 

• Aviation, aircrew, or flight test experience as an alternative background 

• Hands-on experience with launch vehicle ground operations at an active launch site 

• Experience leading ground systems testing programs or static test campaigns 

• Track record of leading teams 

• Solid understanding of fluid systems and high-pressure gas systems 

• Experience developing HMIs for operational monitoring and control systems 

• Background in real-time data analysis and troubleshooting during live operations 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:  

• 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. 

The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the state of Virginia’s pay transparency requirements. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience. 

Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab’s compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab’s Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.  

Base Pay Range (VA Only)

$110,000—$145,000 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.