Director, Rocket Engine Test Operations

Rocket Lab; Mississippi; On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab seeks a Director of Test Site Operations to lead engine test operations at its Test Facility on site at NASA Stennis Space Center. You will own test infrastructure, oversee test programs from engine test operations to production testing, and wear many hats in a fast-moving environment.

You’ll guide engineers and technicians, manage schedules and budgets, and drive safety and logistics across the site to ensure high‑cadence testing and successful mission results.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering or other technical discipline.
• 10+ years of experience in propulsion engineering and/or propulsion test leadership.
• Demonstrated experience supporting high paced technical projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support a team of technical staff for engine test operations and test stand build.
• Mentor technical teams in a high‑pressure environment to ensure mission success.
• Develop and maintain plans, budgets and schedules for multi‑department projects.
• Manage external contractors and suppliers.
• Improve test site infrastructure for multiple engine tests per day.
• Oversee site administration, supply chain and logistics.
• Ensure health and safety of the team.

Skills

Team leadership

Propulsion engineering

Project leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering

Masters or PhD in engineering

Experience with liquid methane or LNG propulsion

Job description

Rocket Lab seeks a Director of Test Site Operations to lead engine test operations at its Test Facility on site at NASA Stennis Space Center. You will own test infrastructure, oversee test programs from engine test operations to production testing, and wear many hats in a fast-moving environment.

You’ll guide engineers and technicians, manage schedules and budgets, and drive safety and logistics across the site to ensure high‑cadence testing and successful mission results.