Propulsion Automation & Test Systems Engineer

at  Rocket Lab USA

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.
Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering or demonstrated equivalent level of knowledge
• Experience in plant and process automation
• Hardware testing applications
• Experience working directly with Engineering or R&D teams
• Clear and confident verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent problem-solving ability
• Can work alone at remote sites and has a “can do” attitude
• Linux-based systems
• Acquisition and processing of data signals

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Preparing and maintaining test plans and test cases in accordance with engineer specifications.
• National Instruments ecosystem
• Test Stand
• Flexlogger
• Data visualization (Tableau)
• SQL and Postgres.
• PLC programming
• Networking and firewalls.
• GUI design and implementation
• Application and measurement of various instruments including
• Pressure sensors
• Thermocouples
• Strain gauges
• Load cells
• Accelerometers
• Voltage/Current
• Serial communications
  If the above sounds like you apply now!

Rocket Lab operates two propulsion test facilities in the Waikato region used to assess various propulsion products flight worthiness. The test cells within these facilities require onsite support and automation to improve both the rate and quality of output, as well as continuous improvement to the software tooling used in test analysis.
The purpose of the Propulsion Automation & Test Systems Engineer is to drive a fiercely efficient production test process with the aim to increase total cell throughput without compromise on quality or safety of the testing processes. The scope of the role will primarily be automation of both physical tasks and administrative tasks in the testing sequence through application of software knowledge and integration of the test systems with the wider business information systems.
The Propulsion Automation & Test Systems Engineer will be based onsite at PTC and will be responsible for the system setup, configuration, improvement, and maintenance of all test systems at the Propulsion Test Complex (PTC) including software tools and architecture for data capture, processing, and analysis. The position will require a broad range of knowledge across software systems including PLC, SQL, TestStand and the National Instruments ecosystem as well as an understanding of electrical, mechanical, and fluid systems.