Senior Spacecraft Propulsion Test Engineer

Rocket Lab; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 132,000 - 198,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Paid time off

11 paid holidays

401(k) match

Job summary

Rocket Lab, based in Long Beach, CA, seeks a Senior Spacecraft Propulsion Test Engineer II to plan, prepare, and execute engine and propulsion component testing. You will own the test facility, manage equipment, and guide test operations to support successful development, qualification, and production testing for our missions and products.

You will lead testing across the lifecycle, mentor teammates, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve reliability and performance.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of rocket engine test engineering experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (aerospace, mechanical, mechatronics or related).
• Ability to travel to test facilities and work off-site for extended periods.
• Experience with engine test facilities and hot fire testing of liquid rockets, including instrumentation and data analysis.
• Proficiency in instrumentation, automation, and data acquisition using NI or Beckhoff PLC.

Responsibilities

• Set and maintain best practices for all aspects of engine testing.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship on testing methodologies.
• Review test plans, reports, and ensure compliance with requirements.
• Support risk-based decision making to guide development.
• Own the full testing lifecycle from planning to data reporting.
• Communicate with internal and external stakeholders regularly.
• Document and uphold standards of excellence in testing.

Skills

Rocket engine test experience

Instrumentation & data acquisition

Automation expertise

Test planning & leadership

Travel to test facilities

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering (aerospace/mechanical/mechatronics)

Tools

National Instruments

Beckhoff PLC

Job description

Rocket Lab, based in Long Beach, CA, seeks a Senior Spacecraft Propulsion Test Engineer II to plan, prepare, and execute engine and propulsion component testing. You will own the test facility, manage equipment, and guide test operations to support successful development, qualification, and production testing for our missions and products.

You will lead testing across the lifecycle, mentor teammates, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve reliability and performance.