Lead Avionics Test & Launch Engineer

AFE; Virginia; On-site; USD 110,000 - 145,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee stock purchase program

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) retirement plan

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Wallops Island, VA is seeking a Lead Test & Launch Engineer – Avionics to lead end-to-end testing, launch, and mission operations for Electron and Neutron.

You will oversee teams of engineers, develop CONOPS, and ensure readiness of avionics systems, with a focus on high‑reliability software and RF/telemetry.

The role requires strong leadership, hands-on testing, and collaboration across disciplines to scale operations and improve safety and cadence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required in a technical field.
• 5–8+ years of engineering experience in avionics or related areas.
• Experience with avionics hardware, flight software, and ground station operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead avionics hardware, software, and ground station operations for Electron and Neutron.
• Operate in Mission Control as console operator for avionics during tests and launches.
• Develop and maintain CONOPS for avionics systems, flight software, and ground networks.
• Create test plans, procedures, and checklists for avionics operations.
• Design HMIs for avionics monitoring and ground station control.
• Lead readiness reviews, simulations, and training for avionics teams.
• Analyze live data to troubleshoot avionics and comms anomalies.
• Contribute to procedures and infrastructure scale for future cadence.
• Provide training programs and qualification matrices for operators.

Skills

Avionics systems

RF systems

Telemetry

Flight software

Launch vehicle operations

Education

Bachelor's degree in electrical, computer, aerospace, software engineering, or other technical degree

Tools

Ground station software

RF analysis tools

Job description

Rocket Lab in Wallops Island, VA is seeking a Lead Test & Launch Engineer – Avionics to lead end-to-end testing, launch, and mission operations for Electron and Neutron.

You will oversee teams of engineers, develop CONOPS, and ensure readiness of avionics systems, with a focus on high‑reliability software and RF/telemetry.

The role requires strong leadership, hands-on testing, and collaboration across disciplines to scale operations and improve safety and cadence.