Head of Vehicle Test & Launch Operations

Moss Interactive, LLC; Virginia, Northern (IL, KY); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 145,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Medical, dental & vision insurance

401(k) retirement plan

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Wallops Island, VA seeks a Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer for end-to-end testing, launch, and mission operations of Electron and Neutron launch vehicles. You will lead vehicle systems readiness and supervise engineers across disciplines.

Based out of Launch Complex 3, you will develop CONOPS, test plans, HMIs, and run readiness reviews, while steering improvements and training programs to support increasing launch cadence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, chemical engineering or other technical field.
• 5+ years of engineering experience with propulsion systems, aviation, launch vehicles, or spacecraft.
• Demonstrated proficiency with rocket propulsion systems and fluid/thermal systems.
• Experience with high-reliability aerospace systems design, test, or operations.
• Experience with vehicle tanking, propellant handling, and pressurized fluid systems.
• Demonstrated leadership competencies, especially change management and team leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of engineers responsible for vehicle mechanical, propulsion, and fluid systems for Electron and Neutron launch operations.
• Serve as console operator for vehicle systems during test campaigns, rehearsals, and launch in Mission Control.
• Develop and maintain CONOPS for vehicle mechanical and propulsion systems.
• Create and continuously improve test plans, procedures, and checklists for vehicle operations.
• Design and implement HMIs for vehicle monitoring and control.
• Lead operational readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals.
• Perform real-time troubleshooting and data analysis during live operations to resolve anomalies.
• Conduct post-test and post-launch data analysis to identify trends and improvements.

Skills

Leadership

Mission Control

Propulsion systems

Fluid systems

System troubleshooting

Team management

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical/aerospace engineering

Job description

Rocket Lab in Wallops Island, VA seeks a Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer for end-to-end testing, launch, and mission operations of Electron and Neutron launch vehicles. You will lead vehicle systems readiness and supervise engineers across disciplines.

Based out of Launch Complex 3, you will develop CONOPS, test plans, HMIs, and run readiness reviews, while steering improvements and training programs to support increasing launch cadence.