Senior Launch Operations Lead — Vehicle Testing

Sustainable World, Inc.; Virginia; On-site; USD 110,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab seeks a Lead Test & Launch Engineer – Vehicle to command end-to-end testing, launch, and mission operations for Electron and Neutron at Launch Complex 3, Wallops Island, VA. You will oversee discipline teams, develop procedures, and serve as the primary technical authority during mission-critical operations.

The role blends hands-on engineering leadership with mission-control responsibilities and strategic planning for future operational capabilities, including Neutron procedures, in

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, chemical engineering, or other technical degree.
• 5–8+ years of engineering experience with propulsion systems, aviation, launch vehicles, or spacecraft.
• Demonstrated leadership competencies, especially change management, conflict resolution, knowing when to scale/request help, and effectively managing a team.
• Experience with rocket propulsion systems and fluid/thermal systems.
• Experience with high-reliability aerospace systems design, test, or operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of Engineers responsible for vehicle mechanical systems, propulsion systems, and fluid systems for Electron and Neutron launch operations.
• Work in Mission Control as the console operator for vehicle systems during test campaigns, rehearsals, and launch.
• Develop and maintain Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for vehicle mechanical and propulsion systems.
• Create and continuously improve test plans, operational procedures, and checklists for vehicle operations.
• Design and implement Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) for vehicle systems monitoring and control.
• Lead operational readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals for vehicle operations.
• Perform real-time troubleshooting and data analysis during live operations to resolve vehicle 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 vehicle anomalies.
• Drive the development of Neutron vehicle operations procedures and testing campaigns.
• Lead Engineers are highly experienced operators who have demonstrated mastery across multiple systems and operational scenarios.

Skills

Team leadership

Propulsion systems experience

Operations experience

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, chemical engineering, or other technical degree

Job description

Rocket Lab seeks a Lead Test & Launch Engineer – Vehicle to command end-to-end testing, launch, and mission operations for Electron and Neutron at Launch Complex 3, Wallops Island, VA. You will oversee discipline teams, develop procedures, and serve as the primary technical authority during mission-critical operations.

The role blends hands-on engineering leadership with mission-control responsibilities and strategic planning for future operational capabilities, including Neutron procedures, in