Senior GNC Engineer: Trajectory & Flight Dynamics

Rocket Lab; Auckland; On-site; NZD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab in New Zealand seeks a Senior GNC Engineer to own trajectory design, GNC development, and team mentorship for Electron, Neutron and other programs. You will design mission trajectories, develop GNC algorithms, and collaborate with the team to ensure safe, reliable launches from NZ sites.

The role emphasizes hands-on GNC R&D, software development in C/C++/Python, and rigorous mission analysis under tight schedules. Expect active involvement across design, test, and launch operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor/Master/PhD in Electronics, Software, Mechatronics or Aerospace Engineering.
• 5+ years’ experience developing in C/C++ including embedded/high-reliability development.
• 5+ years’ experience developing in Python or MATLAB.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to build relationships.

Responsibilities

• Trajectory Optimization & Mission Design: assist with trajectory optimization/design for orbital/suborbital missions (HASTE).
• Auto sequence design (maneuvers, telemetry, ground station contacts) and verification for flight, stack tests and wet dress rehearsals.
• Analysis and missionization of optimized 3DOF trajectories for 6DOF flight scenarios.
• Monte-Carlo pre-flight, launch day and post-flight analyses.
• Design and verification of spacecraft separation sequences and dynamics.
• GNC R&D/Support: assist with all areas of GNC development and maintenance for Electron, Neutron and/or other programs.
• Core GNC R&D, vehicle parameter modelling/prediction and configuration control.
• 6DOF simulator design and development; Launch and HITL operations.
• Health and Safety: ensure health and safety policies are followed; wear PPE; report near misses/incidents.

Skills

C/C++ development

Python or MATLAB

Embedded systems

Communication skills

Under pressure

Education

Bachelor, Master or PhD in Electronics or Aerospace Engineering

Job description

Rocket Lab in New Zealand seeks a Senior GNC Engineer to own trajectory design, GNC development, and team mentorship for Electron, Neutron and other programs. You will design mission trajectories, develop GNC algorithms, and collaborate with the team to ensure safe, reliable launches from NZ sites.

The role emphasizes hands-on GNC R&D, software development in C/C++/Python, and rigorous mission analysis under tight schedules. Expect active involvement across design, test, and launch operations.