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Avionics Design Engineer I - Neutron
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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 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.
While other companies talk about it, we do it!
NEUTRON
Rocket Lab’s Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutron’s structures and components, to firing up its new Archimedes engines, to setting up Neutron’s launch pads and test sites across the United States, joining the Neutron team is your opportunity to help launch a new large rocket for the very first time.
About This Role
Join the Neutron Avionics Hardware team and play a crucial role in developing the next generation of launch vehicle technology. We're looking for a talented engineer to take ownership of mission-critical avionics components from initial concept through production readiness for the Neutron launch vehicle.
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:
- Own and lead avionics components and subsystems, serving as the first point of contact in your area of responsibility
- Execute full lifecycle development of electronic components—from requirements gathering and prototyping through debugging, schematic capture, PCB layout, board bring-up, mechanical integration, testing, and production implementation
- Design and test digital, power, and analog sensing circuits for harsh aerospace environments
- Develop and execute test campaigns for avionics components, including computing modules and high-voltage systems, ensuring all requirements are fully met
- Create automation software in Python and C/C++ to interact with units-under-test, automated test equipment, and production ERP systems
- Conduct critical analyses including FMECA, derating, root-cause analysis for component failures, and risk assessments with mitigation strategies
- Collaborate cross-functionally with teams across the company to achieve ambitious program goals
- Review and approve engineering changes, schematics, PCB designs, test documentation, and other technical documents
- Develop documentation for test procedures, maintenance, and calibration of new systems while providing training and ongoing support
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related discipline
- 1+ years of experience with electronics hardware development from concept through production
- Strong understanding of instrumentation, interfaces, and sensors including power supplies, serial devices, switch topologies, accelerometers, thermocouples, RTDs, and 4-20mA sensors
- Hands-on proficiency with lab test equipment including power supplies, oscilloscopes, electronic loads, DMMs, function generators, and process calibrators
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
- Ownership mentality with the ability to drive tasks and projects to completion independently
- Problem-solving mindset with the ability to identify challenges and develop solutions that improve cost, quality, reliability, and delivery
- Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as needed
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
- Experience with environmental testing including vibration, shock, thermal, EMI/EMC, and TVAC
- Proficiency in Altium Designer
- Programming experience with Python, C, and C++
If the above sounds like you apply now!
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.
Ready to apply?
Apply to Rocket Lab Corporation
Avionics Engineer II – Test
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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 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.
ABOUT SPACE SYSTEMS AT ROCKET LAB:
Rocket Lab’s Space Systems team is responsible for every satellite and satellite component made by Rocket Lab: from complete satellites destined for missions to the Moon and Mars, to the individual components and subsystems that make up a satellite like solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels and star trackers, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team is made up of engineers and technicians who design, create, and put together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defense sectors, or who build and assemble satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions.
ABOUT THE ROLE:
As a member of the Ion Propulsion Team, you will be on the front-line of cutting-edge avionics hardware development. You will have the unique opportunity to support the creation, test, and deployment of avionics hardware and systems that go into orbit. This includes, but is not limited to, power electronic systems, high-voltage components, and high reliability control electronics. Your role working with avionics hardware is critical in ensuring quality and reliability in a fast-paced development environment all the way through to scale production.
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:
- Plan, develop, and execute test campaigns for avionics components and subsystems, including high-voltage and power electronic systems.
- Collaborate with design engineers and customers to generate and document test requirements.
- Perform hands-on troubleshooting during component bring-up, integration, and operations.
- Conduct root-cause failure investigations and implement corrective actions.
- Develop and verify analytical and empirical models for electrical systems.
- Design and implement automated test architectures and data analysis tools.
- Write automation software (Python, C/C++) for test equipment and data acquisition.
- Support the design and development of electronic circuits and assemblies for automated testing.
- Review and analyze system-level test data from integrated testing and launch campaigns.
- Provide guidance and support to production technicians and manufacturing engineers.
- Create and maintain technical documentation, procedures, and training materials.
- Ensure compliance with health and safety policies and procedures.
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a related field.
- 4+ years of experience in hardware development or electronics test engineering.
- Hands-on experience with instrumentation and sensors (oscilloscopes, power supplies, accelerometers, thermocouples, RTDs, 4-20mA sensors).
- Experience conducting aerospace environmental testing (vibration, shock, thermal, TVAC).
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills for electronic hardware.
- Proficiency with electrical test equipment and data acquisition systems.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, autonomous, and collaborative environment.
- Excellent communication and documentation skills.
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
- Experience designing hardware from concept through to production.
- 3+ years of programming experience in Python, C, C++, or Matlab.
- Experience with FPGA-based systems and high-voltage electronics.
- Familiarity with PCB design tools (Altium, Eagle, KiCAD, etc.).
- Experience developing automated test equipment and data analysis tools.
- Knowledge of root cause analysis methodologies such as FMECA.
- Prior experience in the aerospace or space systems industry.
- Experience supporting production lines and training technicians.
If this sounds like you - Apply today!
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.
Ready to apply?
Apply to Rocket Lab Corporation
Manufacturing Engineer I - Avionics
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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 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.
As an Avionics Manufacturing Engineer, you will play a critical role in ensuring the quality, reliability, and performance of integrated electrical and mechanical systems within a high-growth, high-consequence production environment.
You will take ownership of test and production activities, support build rate targets, and make risk-based engineering decisions that directly impact mission success.
Key Responsibilities
- Assess and make risk-based decisions on product quality issues, especially when failures occur close to launch timelines
- Determine disposition of failed units (rework, accept, or scrap) based on technical risk, performance impact, and delivery constraints
- Plan and execute environmental testing (thermal, vibration, shock) using complex multi-unit test systems
- Diagnose failures by distinguishing between product faults and test equipment issues in highly integrated setups
- Conduct testing of electronic and electromechanical systems, including PCB assemblies integrated with motors and mechanical components
- Validate system-level performance to ensure reliable interaction between electrical and mechanical subsystems
- Support PCB integration and production testing within internal test environments
- Take ownership of production lines- removing blockers, improving yield, and increasing build rate
- Drive process improvements across manufacturing, test, and integration
- Contribute to change management, assessing risk and impact of design or process changes
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (design, mechanical, test) to resolve issues and enable informed decision-making
YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Electrical, Electronic, or Mechatronics Engineering
- Experience with electrical hardware systems, PCBA assemblies, or instrumentation/control systems
- Experience designing or debugging test systems or automated test infrastructure
- Hands-on experience troubleshooting complex electrical or integrated systems in production environments
- Experience with Python, C, or similar for automation or data analysis
- Strong risk assessment and decision-making capability
- Strong communication skills and a proactive, can-do mindset
NICE TO HAVE
- Experience with ERP/PLM systems (e.g. Teamcenter, Infor LN)
- Knowledge of production quality metrics and configuration control
- Experience with environmental testing (thermal, vibration, vacuum, shock)
- Familiarity with DFMEA, PFMEA, Fault Tree Analysis, and root cause methods
- Understanding of sensors and instrumentation (thermocouples, accelerometers, pressure sensors, etc.)
- Experience with engineering change processes in production environments
- Background in new product introduction (NPI)
WHY JOIN US
You’ll be part of a team tackling challenging problems, delivering on ambitious missions, and shaping the future of space. This role offers the opportunity to work across test, manufacturing, and system integration, with real ownership and impact.
If this sounds like you, apply now!
If you meet at least 50% of the requirements, we still encourage you to apply.
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.
Ready to apply?
Apply to Rocket Lab Corporation
Senior Avionics Engineer
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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 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.
ABOUT SPACE SYSTEMS AT ROCKET LAB:
Rocket Lab’s Space Systems team is responsible for every satellite and satellite component made by Rocket Lab: from complete satellites destined for missions to the Moon and Mars, to the individual components and subsystems that make up a satellite like solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels and star trackers, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team is made up of engineers and technicians who design, create, and put together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defense sectors, or who build and assemble satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions.
ABOUT THE ROLE:
The Senior Power Electronics Engineer will lead the design, development, and verification of high-power flight electronics, focusing on ion propulsion power processing units and high-voltage distribution systems. You’ll own projects from concept through production, ensuring robust, efficient, and reliable hardware for space environments. Key responsibilities include designing high-voltage DC-DC converters, precision power distribution units, and custom magnetics, while meeting strict efficiency, thermal, and EMC requirements. Your expertise will guide technical decisions and maintain the integrity of spacecraft avionics across multiple flight programs.
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:
- Own the full development lifecycle of high-reliability, high-voltage power processing units for ion propulsion systems, focusing on advanced power conversion, high-voltage isolation, and precision current/voltage control.
- Architect and design high-power DC-DC converters and power distribution electronics, ensuring optimal topology selection, effective thermal management, and minimal EMI for mission-critical propulsion applications.
- Design and prototype vehicle-level high-voltage distribution units and interface modules, ensuring robust circuit protection, arc suppression, and compliance with complex system-level safety and interface requirements.
- Perform comprehensive electrical analyses, including Worst-Case Analysis (WCA), FIDES, Power Integrity (PI), thermal simulations, and high-voltage stress analysis to ensure mission reliability.
- Select space-grade high-voltage components for in-orbit applications, addressing radiation tolerance (TID/SEE), corona discharge risks, outgassing, and lead-time risks.
- Lead the design of complex power electronics, including custom magnetics (transformers, inductors), switching regulator optimization, high-voltage filtering, and high-efficiency power distribution networks.
- Develop grounding, bonding, and EMI/EMC strategies for high-power integrated avionics suites to ensure electromagnetic compatibility across spacecraft and propulsion systems.
- Oversee bring-up, "smoke testing," and diagnostic verification of first-article high-voltage flight hardware, performing precision rework and high-voltage diagnostics as needed.
- Define and lead environmental qualification and risk-reduction testing campaigns for power electronics, including Thermal Vacuum (TVAC), random vibration, high-voltage breakdown, and EMI/EMC testing.
- Mentor junior and intermediate engineers through peer reviews of power electronics schematics, high-voltage PCB layouts, and technical budgets (power, mass, efficiency).
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Propulsion, GNC, Flight Software, Thermal) to resolve high-voltage interface challenges and ensure seamless system integration.
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Electronics, or a related field
- 7+ years of experience in high-reliability power electronics design, with a proven track record of delivering flight-proven or mission-critical high-power hardware
- Mastery of high-voltage power electronics design, simulation, and layout using industry-standard digital tools
- Experience with high-efficiency DC-DC converters operating below 1kV, magnetics design (transformers, inductors), and high-voltage isolation techniques, including mitigations for creepage and corona/arcing
- Hands-on expertise with advanced lab instrumentation for high-voltage hardware bring-up and characterization (e.g., high-bandwidth oscilloscopes, high-voltage probes, current sensing equipment)
- Strong understanding of Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Test (DFT) for high-reliability, production-scale high-voltage electronics
Required Tools:
- Expert-level proficiency in eCAD software (Altium Designer)
- Power electronics simulation tools (LTspice, PLECS, PSIM, or similar)
- Power Integrity and thermal analysis tools (HyperLynx, ANSYS Icepak, or similar)
- Requirement management and verification tools (JAMA)
- Product Lifecycle Management and configuration management (Teamcenter)
- Mechanical integration and harness oversight (Siemens NX)
- Production and task management software (Jira, Confluence, Smartsheet)
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
- Understanding of space-specific design constraints, including radiation mitigation (TID/SEE), thermal management in a vacuum, and material outgassing for high-voltage applications
- Experience with FPGA development or low-level embedded software for hardware verification and diagnostic tool development for power systems
- Background in designing ion propulsion power processing units, Hall effect thruster controllers, or gridded ion engine electronics
- Experience leading environmental qualification campaigns (TVAC, Vibration, Shock, EMI/EMC, high-voltage breakdown testing) to aerospace standards
- Experience with automated test equipment (ATE) development for production-level high-voltage PCBA verification
- Demonstrated success mentoring junior engineering staff and driving technical process improvements within an organization
- Familiarity with the unique constraints of the NewSpace industry, specifically the application of COTS components in high-reliability, high-power systems
- Knowledge of custom magnetics winding techniques and vendor management for space-qualified magnetic components
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.
Ready to apply?
Apply to Rocket Lab Corporation
Senior Manufacturing Engineer - Avionics
Share this job
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 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.
ABOUT SPACE SYSTEMS:
It began with the CAPSTONE mission, supporting NASA’s NASA Artemis program by launching a satellite into a unique Near Rectilinear Halo Orbit around the Moon. From there, the team reached another milestone - becoming only the second company ever to successfully complete re-entry from orbit, opening new possibilities in microgravity manufacturing. Now, the journey continues. Be part of the team supporting missions beyond Earth, including work with Rocket Lab and its twin spacecraft headed to Mars on NASA’s ESCAPADE mission.
ABOUT THE ROLE:
As a Senior Manufacturing Engineer, you’ll play a critical role in shaping the future of Ion Propulsion systems, from early-stage development through to scaled production. You’ll be embedded in a fast-moving environment where R&D meets high-volume manufacturing - providing input during design phases, solving complex production challenges, and ultimately enabling reliable delivery of advanced propulsion systems to orbit.
WHAT YOU’LL BE WORKING ON:
You’ll contribute across a diverse portfolio of space technologies:
Ion Propulsion
New engine development in early-stage research and design. You’ll help guide its transition from prototype into scalable manufacturing.
Reaction Wheel Production
High-volume manufacturing involving complex mechatronics systems, improving the line and introducing new products.
Satellite Buses
Short-run builds spanning both design and production, offering broad exposure across the product lifecycle.
There’s a strong technical focus on electrical systems, testing, harnessing, and PCB inspection/testing.
Team & Culture
- You’ll work closely with Avionics Test and Avionics Manufacturing teams, partnering with engineers, technicians, and key stakeholders across the business
- A collaborative, down-to-earth culture with team members from around the world
- Strong cross-functional engagement and knowledge sharing
- A balance of R&D innovation and production delivery
WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:
- Develop, implement, and improve quality documentation (procedures, work instructions, inspection records)
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and other methodologies
- Drive process optimisation and waste reduction in manufacturing workflows
- Organize and lead process reviews and audits at an organizational level
- Analyse production and test data to identify trends and implement corrective actions
- Collaborate cross-functionally to improve product quality and performance
- Train and mentor production staff on best practices and quality standards
TECHNICAL EXPECTATIONS:
This is a hands-on, senior-level role requiring:
- Strong electrical and/or mechanical engineering expertise
- Ability to troubleshoot and resolve non-conformances
- Experience developing and operating test rigs and systems
- Capability to write code and analyze test data
Programming is a key requirement, particularly for:
- Test system development
- Automation
- Data analysis
IDEAL SKILLS:
- Python
- C++
- SQL
- Controls / Electrical competency
WHAT YOU’LL BRING:
- 5+ years’ experience in manufacturing, quality, project, or design engineering
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Materials Engineering
- Experience with process and test method validation
Strong knowledge of:
- Lean & Six Sigma, Root Cause Analysis & Corrective Actions, FMEA, APQP, Control Plans
- Experience working within Quality Management Systems
- Proven ability to make sound engineering decisions and assess feasibility
NICE TO HAVE:
- Experience with Siemens Teamcenter or Infor LN
- Knowledge of production quality metrics
- Experience transitioning products from prototype to production
- Change implementation in compliance-driven environments
- PPS problem solving
This is a rare opportunity to work at the intersection of cutting-edge space exploration, advanced manufacturing, and real-world impact - helping deliver the next generation of propulsion systems that will power missions beyond Earth.
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.
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