Lead Avionics Test & Launch Operations Engineer

Rocket Lab Corporation

Wallops Island (VA)

On-site

USD 110,000 - 140,000

Full time

14 days+

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Benefits offered by this job

Stock Purchase Program

Medical Insurance

401(k) retirement plan

Paid vacation

Job summary

Rocket Lab, a leader in orbital launch services, seeks a Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer – Avionics to drive end-to-end avionics testing, mission control operations, and procedural development for Electron and Neutron programs.

You will lead a team, develop CONOPS, and craft tests, HMIs, and readiness processes to ensure safe, reliable flight operations across campaigns and launches. Strong leadership and technical depth are essential.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in electrical, computer, aerospace, software engineering, or other technical field.
5–8+ years of engineering experience with avionics systems, RF, telemetry, flight software, or launch vehicle operations.
Proficiency with avionics hardware, flight software, and ground station operations.
Experience with high‑reliability software systems and safety‑critical aerospace software.
Experience with RF systems, ground stations, telemetry processing.
Demonstrated leadership competencies, especially change management and team management.
Experience developing operational procedures, test plans, and conducting mission simulations.

Responsibilities

Lead and manage a team of engineers responsible for avionics hardware, software, and ground station systems for Electron and Neutron launch operations.
Work in Mission Control as the console operator for avionics systems during test campaigns, rehearsals, and launch operations.
Develop and maintain Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for avionics systems, flight software, and ground networks.
Create and continuously improve test plans, operational procedures, and checklists for avionics operations.
Design and implement Human‑Machine Interfaces (HMIs) for avionics monitoring, telemetry display, and ground station control.
Lead operational readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals for avionics operations.
Perform real‑time troubleshooting and data analysis during live operations to resolve avionics and communication system anomalies.
Conduct post‑test and post‑launch data analysis to identify trends, anomalies, and improvement opportunities.
Develop comprehensive training programs and qualification matrices to ensure operators are prepared for console positions.
Lead structured root‑cause analysis and corrective action programs for avionics anomalies.
Drive the development of Neutron avionics operations procedures and testing campaigns.
Responsible for leading teams of engineers, managing operational projects, and ensuring the overall readiness and capability of their discipline area.