Ground Systems Engineer I - Instrumentation & Control

Rocket Lab; Auckland; On-site; NZD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A global aerospace company in Auckland is looking for a Ground Systems Engineer to work on control systems for testing and launching rockets. Successful candidates will have a background in Mechatronics, Electrical, or Control Systems Engineering, and experience in programming and troubleshooting. Being part of the team means contributing to pioneering innovations in space technology.

Qualifications

• Tertiary qualification in Mechatronics, Electrical, or Control Systems Engineering required.
• Proficiency in at least two programming languages such as Python or C++.
• Strong debugging and troubleshooting skills.

Responsibilities

• Own and deliver small-scale control projects from concept to commissioning.
• Provide hands-on and remote support for ICE system installation.
• Analyse post-flight and post-test data for continuous improvement.

Skills

Proficiency in at least two programming languages (e.g., Python, C++, Structured Text)

Strong debugging and troubleshooting skills

Excellent documentation and communication abilities

Collaborative mindset with proactive approach

Education

Tertiary qualification in Mechatronics, Electrical, or Control Systems Engineering

Tools

Familiarity with PLC platforms such as Beckhoff or Codesys

Experience with Git/GitLab version control

Job description

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!

ABOUT THE ROLE

As a Ground Systems Engineer in the Instrumentation and Control (ICE) team, you\'ll maintain and develop control systems that support our world-class facilities. These systems are critical to enabling the testing, build, and launch of our Electron and Neutron launch vehicles—at a speed faster than they are manufactured.

You'll work on both new control system development and supporting operational systems. This includes designing automation solutions, supporting infrastructure commissioning, and collaborating with operations and test teams to ensure systems run smoothly, safely, and effectively.

Whether you’re delivering a project from concept to implementation or taking ownership, you’ll work under the guidance of senior engineers while developing the skills to lead increasingly complex technical work.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Design & Development

• Own and deliver small-scale control projects from concept to commissioning
• Contribute to larger engineering sprint teams by executing tasks aligned with architectural guidance
• Simulate, validate, and document system functions before deployment
• Write and maintain operator manuals, test procedures, and maintenance documentation

Operational Support

• Provide hands-on and remote support for ICE system installation, commissioning, and testing
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues quickly to minimize downtime
• Ensure proper usage and safety of systems, advising teams when configurations are used outside of intended design
• Analyse post-flight and post-test data to inform continuous improvement.

WHAT YOU BRING

Required Skills & Experience

• Tertiary qualification in Mechatronics, Electrical, or Control Systems Engineering
• Proficiency in at least two programming languages (e.g., Python, C++, Structured Text)
• Strong debugging and troubleshooting skills
• Excellent documentation and communication abilities
• A collaborative mindset with a proactive, ownership-driven approach

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience automating industrial or high-reliability systems
• Familiarity with PLC platforms such as Beckhoff or Codesys
• Understanding of object-oriented programming
• Experience with Git/GitLab version control
• Hands-on exposure to instrumentation, control systems, or machinery

READY TO LAUNCH?

Apply now and be part of a team that’s redefining what’s possible in space and on 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 ITAR, Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident, or be eligible to obtain required authorizations. Learn more about ITAR.

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 should contact the dedicated resource. 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. 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 ITAR. 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 NATO country, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. More information about ITAR Regulations.