Launch Operations Lead: Ground Systems & Mission Control

Rocket Lab Corp.; Virginia (MN); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company stock

Health benefits

401(k) retirement plan

Job summary

Rocket Lab Corp. is seeking a Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer – Launch Pad to oversee end-to-end testing, launch, and mission operations for Electron and Neutron vehicles from Wallops Island, VA.

You will lead engineers, manage projects, develop training, and serve as the technical authority during mission-critical operations, coordinating across disciplines to scale with increasing launch cadence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a technical engineering field.
• 5–8+ years in ground systems, industrial controls, or launch operations.
• Proficiency with ground support equipment and PLC-based automation.
• Experience with cryogenic and pressurization systems and propellant handling.
• Experience in high-reliability ground systems design, testing, or operations.
• Proven leadership competencies and team-management experience.
• Understanding of hazardous operations and safety protocols.
• Experience developing operational procedures and mission simulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of Engineers responsible for launch pad ground systems and infrastructure for Electron and Neutron operations.
• Serve as console operator in Mission Control for launch pad systems during tests and launches.
• Develop and maintain CONOPS for launch pad systems and ground support equipment.
• Create and improve test plans, procedures, and checklists for ground systems operations.
• Design and implement HMIs for ground systems monitoring and control.
• Lead readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals for ground systems operations.
• 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.
• Develop training programs and qualification matrices for operators.
• Lead root-cause analysis and corrective action programs for ground systems.

Skills

Ground systems

Industrial controls

Fluid systems

Launch operations

Ground support equipment

PLCs & automation

Cryogenic systems

Pressurization

Propellant handling

Tanking operations

Reliability design

Leadership

Hazardous operations

Procedures & test plans

Mission simulations

Education

Engineering degree

Job description

Rocket Lab Corp. is seeking a Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer – Launch Pad to oversee end-to-end testing, launch, and mission operations for Electron and Neutron vehicles from Wallops Island, VA.

You will lead engineers, manage projects, develop training, and serve as the technical authority during mission-critical operations, coordinating across disciplines to scale with increasing launch cadence.