Lead Launch Operations Engineer - Ground & Mission Control

Rocket Lab; Wallops Island (VA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Wallops Island, VA is seeking a Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer to own end‑to‑end testing, launch, and mission operations for Electron and Neutron launch vehicles. You will oversee ground systems and related infrastructure, coordinating across disciplines during mission‑critical operations.

As a senior leader, you will develop training programs, conduct operational readiness reviews, and serve as the primary technical authority for your systems to scale up future launch

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering field; 5–8+ years in ground systems or launch operations.
• Experience with cryogenic systems, propellant handling, and high‑reliability ground systems.
• Proven leadership and ability to manage cross‑disciplinary teams and projects.
• Experience developing operational procedures, test plans, and mission simulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage teams responsible for launch pad ground systems and infrastructure for Electron and Neutron.
• Operate from Mission Control as console operator for ground systems during tests and launches.
• Develop CONOPS for launch pad systems and ground support equipment.
• Create and improve test plans, procedures, and checklists for ground operations.
• Design HMIs for monitoring and control of ground systems.
• Lead readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals.
• Perform real‑time troubleshooting and data analysis during live operations.
• Conduct post‑test and post‑launch data analyses to identify improvements.
• Develop training programs and qualification matrices for operators.
• Lead root‑cause analysis and corrective action for ground system anomalies.
• Drive development of Neutron ground systems procedures and testing campaigns.

Skills

Ground systems proficiency

PLC programming

Launch pad systems

Mission readiness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, electrical, chemical engineering, or other technical field

Tools

Ground control software

Job description

Rocket Lab in Wallops Island, VA is seeking a Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer to own end‑to‑end testing, launch, and mission operations for Electron and Neutron launch vehicles. You will oversee ground systems and related infrastructure, coordinating across disciplines during mission‑critical operations.

As a senior leader, you will develop training programs, conduct operational readiness reviews, and serve as the primary technical authority for your systems to scale up future launch