Senior Ground Systems Engineer II, Instrumentation & Controls

Rocket Lab USA; Virginia, Wallops Island (MN, VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative company at the forefront of space technology is seeking a Senior Ground Systems Engineer II to join their dynamic team. This role focuses on developing and automating fluid and gas systems at a cutting-edge launch complex. You will be instrumental in designing complex control systems, supporting technicians during critical operations, and analyzing data post-tests. With a commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration, this position offers the chance to work on groundbreaking projects that make a real impact. If you are passionate about engineering and ready to take your career to new heights, this opportunity is for you.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience designing instrumentation and controls for launch vehicles.
• Hands-on experience with data acquisition and automation systems.
• Experience with object-oriented PLC programming.

Responsibilities

• Design control systems for complex launch range systems.
• Support certification of systems and produce documentation.
• Perform test operations and post-test data analysis.

Skills

Instrumentation and Controls

Data Acquisition

Automation Systems

PLC Programming

Software Development

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

C/C++

Python

NI LabVIEW

TeamCity

EPlan

Beckhoff PLC Programming

NI cRio Controller Programming

Perforce Version Control System

Gitlab/Git Version Control System

Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

NEUTRON

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab's proven execution history with the Electron program. If you're interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re-usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!

SENIOR GROUND SYSTEMS ENGINEER II, INSTRUMENTATION AND CONTROLS

Based out of Rocket Lab's Launch Complex in Wallops VA, the Senior Ground Systems Engineer II, Instrumentation and Controls is responsible for the development, automation, testing and commissioning of fluid and gas systems at the Launch Complex site. You will support the test operations team and be responsible for software, PLC, networks, instrumentation and controls.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Design control systems for complex launch range systems.

• Support certification of systems including producing documentation operator manuals, maintenance procedures, test procedures, and work instructions

• Support technicians remotely or in person during installation, commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting activities

• Become a subject matter expert in one or more of the necessary disciplines dealing with instrumentation, control systems, HMI, PLCs, software, and networks.

• Perform test operations activities.

• Post-test data analysis

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• 
  

  Bachelor's Degree in electrical engineering or other technical discipline

  
  

• 
  

  8+ years of experience designing instrumentation and controls and related infrastructure for liquid launch vehicles

  
  

• 
  

  Hands-on experience with data acquisition, control, and automation systems

  
  

• 
  

  Experience with object Oriented PLC programming

  
  

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• 
  

  Experience implementing functional safety (IEC 61508 & IEC 61511)

  
  

• 
  

  Experience with NI LabVIEW

  
  

• 
  

  Development with tools including: C/C++, Python, TeamCity, EPlan, Beckhoff PLC Programming, NI cRio controller programming, Perforce Version Control System, Gitlab/Git Version Control System

  
  

• 
  

  Experience with complex industrial systems for flow of fluids, especially cryogenics and high pressures

  
  

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• 
  

  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.

  
  

• 
  

  Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.

  
  

• 
  

  Must be physically able to commute to buildings

  
  

• 
  

  Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise.

  
  

WHAT TO EXPECT

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at [e-mail] dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click hereITAR Regulations.