Lead Spacecraft Operations Engineer – Automation & Missions

Rocket Lab Corporation; Auckland; On-site; NZD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab Corporation in Auckland is seeking a Senior Spacecraft Operations Engineer to own spacecraft operations across a growing fleet, from LEO to deep space, shaping automation, software and mission success from concept to re-entry.

You will collaborate with engineers across propulsion, flight software, GNC, and mission design to turn ambitious ideas into reality, fast. A strong background in space systems and hands-on ops is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace, systems, software engineering or related field.
• 5+ years in space mission design, satellite subsystems, ground systems or spacecraft operations.
• Experience with Linux systems and software development (Python, C++, or similar).
• Strong understanding of spacecraft systems (ADCS, power, comms, C&DH, thermal).
• Solid grasp of orbital mechanics and space environment.

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 systems

Python

C++

Spacecraft systems

Orbital mechanics

Mission design

Spacecraft operations

Strong problem solving

Education

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

Tools

Git

CI/CD

Cloud

Job description

Rocket Lab Corporation in Auckland is seeking a Senior Spacecraft Operations Engineer to own spacecraft operations across a growing fleet, from LEO to deep space, shaping automation, software and mission success from concept to re-entry.

You will collaborate with engineers across propulsion, flight software, GNC, and mission design to turn ambitious ideas into reality, fast. A strong background in space systems and hands-on ops is essential.