Lead Spacecraft Operations Engineer — Automation & Missions

Rocket Lab Corporation; Auckland; Hybrid; NZD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab Corporation in Auckland seeks a Senior Spacecraft Operations Engineer to own operations across a growing fleet, from LEO to deep-space missions. You will design operation concepts, shaping automation and software for mission success from concept to re-entry.

You’ll collaborate with propulsion, flight software, GNC, and mission design teams to turn bold ideas into reality, with fast-paced delivery and robust reliability.

Qualifications

• This role requires a degree in aerospace, systems or related engineering field.
• 4+ years in space mission design, satellite subsystems, ground systems, or spacecraft operations.
• Background in mission design, satellite subsystems, ground systems, or spacecraft operations/command.
• Familiarity with Linux and software development with Python, C++, or similar languages.
• Strong understanding of spacecraft systems (ADCS, power, comms, C&DH, thermal).
• Solid grasp of orbital mechanics, space environment, and dynamics.
• Proven ability to thrive in fast-paced, multi-priority environments.

Responsibilities

• Command and operate spacecraft with automation at the core.
• Develop and test ground and flight software for long-term missions.
• Build robust operational scripts and telemetry/FDIR configurations.
• Lead validation using simulation tools (HITL, flatsat).
• Support spacecraft through integration, testing, launch, and on-orbit life.
• Drive continuous improvement across systems, processes, and performance.

Skills

Linux

Python

C++

Spacecraft operations

Orbital mechanics

GNC

Mission design

Education

Bachelor’s degree in aerospace, systems, software or engineering

Tools

Git

CI/CD

Cloud

Job description

Rocket Lab Corporation in Auckland seeks a Senior Spacecraft Operations Engineer to own operations across a growing fleet, from LEO to deep-space missions. You will design operation concepts, shaping automation and software for mission success from concept to re-entry.

You’ll collaborate with propulsion, flight software, GNC, and mission design teams to turn bold ideas into reality, with fast-paced delivery and robust reliability.