Launch Operations Engineer II — Mission-Critical Space Ops

Rocket Lab Corporation; Auckland; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab seeks an Integrated Operations Engineer II for the Auckland Production Complex. You will lead mission-critical launch operations, from stack testing to on-orbit activities, working hands-on with Electron vehicles from our Mission Control Centre.

Role requires 3+ years in engineering design, test, or operations, plus programming in Java/Python and familiarity with HTML/XML, networking, and real-time problem solving. Travel may be involved.

Qualifications

• Education in aerospace, mechanical, electrical, or mechatronic engineering with 3+ years in design, test, or operations.
• Proven ability to work in fast-paced, high-stakes environments.
• Strong communication and teamwork across diverse disciplines.

Responsibilities

• Execute testing and launch operations for Electron vehicles, performing on-console duties with real‑time situational awareness.
• Configure and operate electrical systems, avionics, RF, tracking & telemetry, and command & control systems.
• Drive continuous improvement to optimize checkout procedures and increase launch cadence.

Skills

Java

Python

Networking TCP/IP

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Aerospace/Mechanical/Electrical/Mechatronic engineering degree

Tools

HTML

XML

Job description

Rocket Lab seeks an Integrated Operations Engineer II for the Auckland Production Complex. You will lead mission-critical launch operations, from stack testing to on-orbit activities, working hands-on with Electron vehicles from our Mission Control Centre.

Role requires 3+ years in engineering design, test, or operations, plus programming in Java/Python and familiarity with HTML/XML, networking, and real-time problem solving. Travel may be involved.