INTEGRATED OPERATIONS ENGINEER II – TEAM X 

Integrated Operations is the Rocket Lab organisation responsible for Electron launch vehicle and Photon testing and operations starting with stack testing through pre-launch processing, launch, on-orbit operations, and mission disposal.  Testing and operations may be conducted remotely or on-site at propulsion test facilities (MTC, PTC), the Auckland Mission Control Centre (MCC), LC-1 (Mahia), LC-2 (Wallops Island, VA), or other designated locations. Be at the forefront of testing, launching, and managing Electron launch vehicles. 

The Engineer I is an intermediate role in Integrated Operations. The Engineer I will have a working understanding of various disciplines related to testing and operations. The Engineer I will be skilled in one of more operational roles and function independently in these roles during the conduct of testing and operations. The Engineer I will actively contribute to Integrated Operations projects and process/tool development efforts, including accountability for key elements of these efforts. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Prepare for and conduct testing, pre-launch operations, and launch operations.
• Define test and operations requirements.
• Develop, coordinate, and execute plans and procedures to efficiently, effectively, and safely conduct testing, operations, and flight.
• Conduct test and operations on-console (while maintaining situational awareness and real-time communications throughout test and operations activities).
• Troubleshoot and resolve test and operations issues real-time.
• Perform failure investigations and root cause analyses sufficient to prevent recurrence of issues.
• Perform post-test and post-flight data review and analyses.
• Continually improve and streamline integration, testing, and operations.
• Domestic and international travel will be required. 

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS 

• Degree in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• 1-2 years of experience in engineering design, test, and/or operations.
• Experience and/or expertise with mechanical systems including one of more of structures, mechanisms, propulsion, pressurization, hydraulics, pneumatics, HVAC, instrumentation, or command & control systems.
• Able to maintain situational awareness and real-time communications throughout complex operations.
• Careful work ethic with an eye for detail.
• Demonstrated ability to work under pressure and to strict deadlines.
• Self-driven, motivated, and contagiously positive. 

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: 

• 2+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations.
• Demonstrated experience working in safety/mission-critical, high-stress environments.
• Experience working with launch vehicles or spacecraft including integration, testing, launch, and/or on-console mission operations.

If this sounds like you, Apply today! 

Rocket Lab is seeking an exceptional Manager for Test and Launch Operations, someone who thrives when the countdown hits zero and the world is watching. You'll lead front-line engineering teams executing critical test and launch operations for Electron and Neutron, playing a pivotal role in maintaining Rocket Lab's industry-leading launch cadence.

From building high-performing teams to developing operational frameworks, you'll be the driving force that makes complex missions look seamless.

We're looking for an experienced leader who thrives in fast-paced, high-stakes environments, someone who can balance rigorous safety standards with the agility needed to maintain our competitive edge. You'll navigate regulatory requirements, drive continuous improvement, and set the tempo for an industry watching our every move.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, or Mechatronic Engineering (or equivalent)
• 8+ years of hands-on aerospace engineering, testing, and/or operations experience
• 3+ years leading multi-disciplinary engineering teams in fast-paced, time-critical environments
• Multi-disciplinary hands-on engineering expertise spanning fluid mechanics, electrical/power systems, automation, instrumentation/control, and software integration
• Proven experience in propulsion systems, test engineering, and ground test operations
• Strong understanding of launch vehicle and spacecraft systems, with exposure to mission operations
• Proven ability to make time-critical decisions and effectively troubleshoot anomalies in high-stakes environments
• Track record of motivating and developing engineering talent in demanding operational environments

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Real-world rocket launch operations experience
• Background working at launch vehicle test or launch facilities
• Working knowledge of FAA, RCC, NASA, and USAF compliance requirements

You don't go to Mars working eight to five, Monday to Friday. If you're a high performer hungry for work with genuine impact, where your engineering excellence directly shapes space exploration, national security, and critical infrastructure, you've found your place. We take delivery incredibly seriously. Failure is not in our DNA. The work is hard, demanding, and not for the faint-hearted.

In return, you'll solve problems that actually matter alongside experts who run toward challenges, not away from them.

If this resonates with you apply today!

ENGINEERING

Engineering is at the heart of Rocket Lab. Our engineering team has a proven track record of designing and developing world-class rockets and spacecraft that are changing the way we access and use space. You’ll work alongside driven, talented engineers from varied backgrounds and experience levels, all committed to the same mission. Our engineering team members span design, analysis, prototyping, testing, manufacturing, assembly and integration, quality control, engineering documentation, and more.

INTEGRATED OPERATIONS ENGINEER II – TEAM Z

As an Integrated Operations Engineer II based at Rocket Lab’s site in Auckland, you will have the opportunity to support integrated testing and operations starting with stack testing through pre-launch processing, launch, on-orbit operations, and mission disposal. Integrated Operations is also responsible for configuration, checkout, and operation of related facilities, equipment, and infrastructure. Join a driven team that’s tackling challenging projects, delivering on exciting missions, and making an impact on the future of space!

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Define test and operational requirements
• Define Concept of Operations (CONOPs) flow for testing and operations
• Plan, schedule, and conduct test and operations to meet program schedules
• Develop, coordinate, and execute plans and procedures to efficiently, effectively, and safely conduct test and launch operations
• Lead and/or participate in gated readiness reviews conducted prior to integration, testing, and operations
• Lead and/or configure and checkout test stands, launch pads, and control centres prior to conduct of testing and operations
• Lead and/or perform integration and checkout of test articles and flight vehicles prior to testing, operations, or flight
• Direct installation (e.g., mounting on test stands, launch pads, etc.) and configuration of test/flight articles and associated instrumentation for testing and operations
• Lead and conduct testing and operations activities in accordance with established practices and procedures
• Perform failure investigations and root cause analyses sufficient to prevent recurrence of issues
• Support the design, development, deployment, certification, operation, and maintenance of test and operations related equipment, facilities, and infrastructure

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Aerospace, mechanical, electrical, mechatronic engineering degree or equivalent
• 3+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations
• Ability to read, understand and follow detailed schematics, drawings, and instructions
• Proven communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships
• Careful work ethic with an eye for detail
• Ability to work under pressure and to strict deadlines
• Ability to work at heights and in confined spaces

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• 5+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations
• Experience working with launch vehicles or spacecraft including integration, testing, launch, and/or mission operations
• Experience with CAD systems preferably SolidWorks
• Experience with Java, Python, or other object-oriented programming language
• Experience with LabVIEW and PLC development for data acquisition & Realtime control

If this sounds like you, Apply today!