Senior Test Operations Engineer
Architecture & Engineering (Physical)Posted 15 Sep 2025
Advertised as “Test Operations Engineer II/Senior Test Operations Engineer”
Posted 15 Sep 2025
Advertised as “Test Operations Engineer II/Senior Test Operations Engineer”
The original posting with the fluff stripped out
No unique specialisation
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 capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program.
TEST OPERATIONS ENGINEER
Based out of Rocket Lab's Test Facility at Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, the Test Operations Engineer is responsible for activation and operations of critical test facilities to support the Archimedes rocket engine and the Neutron launch vehicle. You will collaborate closely with Engine and Vehicle Propulsion groups to develop test procedures and test sequencing requirements. You will be responsible for configuration, checkout and operations of the engine hot fire facility and associated support infrastructure. Your work will require technical discipline and expertise in mechanical systems but also in monitoring instrumentation and command and control systems. You must be responsible for safety of you and those around you. You may be asked to directly support engine hardware and engine checkout operations. You will become skilled in Test Operations roles and be expected to work independently in support of the overall test facility design, build, activation, and engine test efforts.
Please note: This position can be hired as a Level II or Senior Engineer I.
WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:
Perform facility test operations on console while maintaining situational awareness and constant communication with others involved in the test activity
Both lead and be part of a team of technicians and engineers who setup and operate the test facility
Conduct test operations safely and ensure the quality and integrity of data is maintained
Perform troubleshooting to resolve facility and test operations issues
Work to plan and optimize checkout, processing, testing and post test operations
Collaborate with Archimedes engine and Neutron vehicle design teams to prepare and perform tests on key engine and stage hardware
Work hand in hand with the GSE teams to complete design, build, installation and checkout of facility systems
This includes helping maintain. cleanliness and integrity of systems, ensuring proper checkouts are performed, and data acquisition systems are properly calibrated
YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS AN ENGINEER II:
YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR ENGINEER I:
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
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
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.