Lead Spacecraft Propulsion Test Engineer

Rocket Lab; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 115,000 - 172,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee Stock Purchase Program

Medical plans (HMO/PPO) and HDHP with

Dental and vision coverage

Paid vacation & sick time

401(k) with company match

EV charging subsidy

Onsite fitness centers

Discounted merch store

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Long Beach, CA, is seeking a Senior Spacecraft Propulsion Test Engineer I to lead engine and propulsion component testing, owning test facilities and data analysis. You will drive test plans, mentor engineers, and ensure compliance with rigorous requirements.

This role focuses on hot-fire testing of liquid rocket engines and instrumentation, with opportunities to influence design and production decisions.

Qualifications

• Bachelors in engineering required; aerospace/mechanical preferred.
• Experience with engine test facilities and hot-fire testing.
• Strong instrumentation, data analysis, and automation skills.

Responsibilities

• Set and maintain best practices for all testing aspects.
• Provide guidance and mentorship on testing methodologies.
• Review and sign off on test plans and reports.
• Support engineers and leadership with risk-based decisions.
• Own the full testing lifecycle: planning, setup, data analysis, and reporting.
• Apply a systems engineering mindset to testing activities.
• Communicate with stakeholders internally and externally.
• Define and uphold standards through training and review.
• Contribute to meaningful projects with exceptional colleagues.

Skills

5+ years rocket engine test

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Travel to test facilities

Hot-fire testing experience

Instrumentation & data acquisition

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering

Tools

National Instruments

Beckhoff PLC

Job description

Rocket Lab in Long Beach, CA, is seeking a Senior Spacecraft Propulsion Test Engineer I to lead engine and propulsion component testing, owning test facilities and data analysis. You will drive test plans, mentor engineers, and ensure compliance with rigorous requirements.

This role focuses on hot-fire testing of liquid rocket engines and instrumentation, with opportunities to influence design and production decisions.