About this opportunity
Rocket Lab USA lists this Test and Launch Engineer II - Vehicle opportunity in wallops island, Virginia. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
ABOUT ROCKET LAB
Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.
NEUTRON
Neutron is a medium-lift launch vehicle being developed by Rocket Lab, a publicly traded end-to-end space company. The rocket can deliver the mega constellations of tomorrow, enable interplanetary payloads, and support human spaceflight. As a reusable platform, Neutron will deliver a very cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab's proven history with Electron - the second most launched rocket, worldwide, in 2024. If you're interested in joining an incredible team in a fast-paced and rewarding environment, this is your opportunity.
HASTE
HASTE (Hypersonic Accelerator Suborbital Test Electron) is a specialized variant of Rocket Lab's proven Electron launch vehicle, designed to support hypersonic flight testing and research missions. Operating from Rocket Lab's Launch Complex 2 at Wallops Island, Virginia, Electron HASTE provides a unique capability to deliver hypersonic test vehicles to the required flight conditions for cutting-edge aerodynamic and propulsion research. The program represents an exciting evolution of the Electron platform, supporting critical national defense and aerospace research objectives while maintaining Rocket Lab's commitment to rapid, reliable launch operations.
TEST AND LAUNCH ENGINEER II - VEHICLE
The Test and Launch Operations team at Rocket Lab manages all aspects of testing, launching, and mission operations for the Electron and Neutron rockets, including facility and equipment oversight. Test and Launch Engineers serve as mission controllers, developing procedures, conducting real-time operations, analyzing data, and ensuring safe and reliable launches from Mission Control. They are responsible for troubleshooting issues, leading training exercises, and making critical decisions during live missions. Test and Launch Engineer II position is an advanced role for operators who can independently manage console operations, mentor junior staff, and lead projects to improve procedures and systems. This engineer plays a key role in continuous operational improvement and support both Electron and Neutron missions.
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:
Work in Mission Control as a console operator for vehicle systems during test campaigns, rehearsals, and launch operations
Develop and maintain test plans, operational procedures, and checklists for vehicle operations
Develop and improve Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) for vehicle systems monitoring and control
Participate in operational readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals
Perform real-time troubleshooting and data analysis during live operations to resolve vehicle system issues
Conduct post-test and post-launch data analysis to support continuous improvement efforts
Develop, integrate, and test mechanical and propulsion systems relating to Electron and Neutron launch vehicles
Oversee the configuration and checkout of launch vehicle systems including propulsion units, fluid systems, and mechanical assemblies
Lead and manage testing projects for launch vehicle systems, including static testing and integrated stage hot fire testing
Mentor and train other operators within the Test and Launch Operations team on launch vehicle mechanical and propulsion systems
Author, review and carry out operations procedures for vehicle systems
Support the development of Neutron vehicle operations procedures
Receive instructional training and become qualified as a launch operator on Electron launch vehicles
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's degree in Engineering(preferably Aerospace, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering)
2+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations, with focus on mechanical systems, propulsion systems, or fluid systems
4+ years of experience will be considered in lieu of a degree
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
3+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations
Experience working in Mission Control or similar operational control environments
Aviation/Aircrew/Flight Test may be considered an alternative
Experience with launch vehicles or spacecraft including integration, testing, launch, or mission operations
Experience with integrated stage thermal/fluid systems design/test/operations, and/or experience in a propulsion test/operations environment
Solid understanding and experience working with fluid/cryogenic/pressurized/hazardous systems
Good understanding/experience of real-time hazardous operations
Experience with rocket propulsion systems or engine testing
Experience
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Worksite address
wallops island, VA, 23337, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.