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Rocket Lab
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 the Role:
As a key member of Rocket Lab’s Integrated Operations team, you’ll play an essential role in the testing, launch, and mission operations of our Electron launch vehicles. From stack testing and pre-launch processing to launch and on-orbit operations, you’ll be involved in it all. Integrated Operations also oversees the configuration, checkout, and operation of critical facilities, equipment, and infrastructure. Whether remotely or on-site at locations like the Auckland Mission Control Centre, LC-1 (Mahia), LC-2 (Wallops Island, VA), or others, your work will directly support our world-class missions.
The Engineer II position is an advanced role within this dynamic environment, focusing on software development to enhance launch operations. You’ll have the opportunity to develop a broad set of skills across multiple operational areas while also taking on leadership responsibilities. This includes mentoring and training other team members and owning testing and operations projects, as well as process and tool development. It’s a fast-paced, challenging role that will push you to learn quickly and tackle impactful projects head-on.
Key Software Projects You’ll Work On:
Procedure Automation – Fully automate the launch operator role to streamline operations.
Data Analysis Pipeline – Build tools that define checks to perform during and after launch operations.
Operations Simulator – Expand the System in the Loop (SITL) to train the operations team on off-nominal activities.
Required Skills & Experience:
Degree in Software, Aerospace, Mechatronics Engineering, or equivalent.
2+ years of experience in software design, testing, or operations.
Proficient with Python, Pandas, Qt, Bash/TCL.
Strong understanding of statistics and probability.
Motivated, self-driven, and positively contagious in your work ethic.
Excellent communication skills with the ability to foster collaborative relationships.
Attention to detail, especially under pressure, and the ability to meet strict deadlines.
Solid understanding of networking protocols (TCP/IP, UDP, multicast, etc.).
Desired Skills & Experience:
3+ years of experience in software design, testing, or operations.
Experience with large data analysis pipelines and data models.
Familiarity with C# and/or WPF.
Proficiency in JavaScript and web application development.
A deep understanding of probability and statistics.
Hands-on experience with launch vehicles or spacecraft, particularly in integration, testing, or mission operations.
Rocket Lab Employee Benefits:
Work on cutting-edge, innovative technology.
Employee stock purchase program for a stake in Rocket Lab's success.
Access to world-class experts to accelerate your career growth.
Unlimited barista coffee, fruit, and snacks to fuel your workday.
Cool Rocket Lab merchandise (T-shirts, mission patches, etc.).
Discounted health insurance with Southern Cross.
Additional parental leave entitlements.
A vibrant, social team culture with events throughout the year.
If this sounds like the perfect fit for you, we’d love to hear from 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 [email protected].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.