Test & Launch Operations Operator (Mechanical Engineer II)

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:

• Self-driven, motivated, and contagiously positive.
• Comfortable and capable working in a highly collaborative team-centric environment.
• Proven communication skills and ability to build strong working relationships.
• Able to maintain situational awareness and real-time communications throughout complex operations.
• Careful work ethic with an eye for detail.
• Ability to work under pressure and to strict deadlines.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Aerospace, mechanical, electrical, mechatronic engineering degree or equivalent work experience.
• Strong hands-on problem-solving skills.
• Strong technical skills with direct experience in test and/or operations.
• Experience with launch vehicles or spacecraft including integration, testing, launch, or mission operations.
• Experience and/or expertise with electrical systems including one or more of avionics, power, communications, networking, software, data handling, RF, instrumentation, or command & control electronics.
• Experience and/or expertise with mechanical systems including one of more of structures, mechanisms, propulsion, pressurization, hydraulics, pneumatics, HVAC, instrumentation, or command & control systems.
  If the above sounds like you, apply now!

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

As a Test & Launch Operations Operator on the Integrated Operations team at Rocket Lab, you will be responsible for and actively participate in some of the most exciting work at Rocket Lab as you perform critical testing of rocket stages and flight ready launch vehicles up to and including the launch and mission operations. You will also test and prepare related test stands, launch facilities, and tracking assets to ensure they’re ready to support vehicle testing and launch operations. This will include system hot-fire testing at stack test facilities near Auckland, NZ, test and operations at the Rocket Lab Mission Control Centre in Auckland, NZ, and pre-launch and launch operations at Rocket Lab’s LC-1 (Mahia, NZ) and LC-2 (Wallops Island, VA) launch facilities.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prepare for and conduct testing, pre-launch operations, and launch operations.
• Define test and operations requirements.
• Prepare test plans and procedures.
• Perform flight vehicle and facility checkouts and readiness testing.
• Troubleshoot and resolve test and operations issues real-time.
• 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.