Senior Test & Launch Operations Lead

Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers; Virginia; On-site; USD 110,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Virginia seeks a Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer for electron and neutron launch vehicle operations. You will oversee testing, launch readiness, and mission operations, coordinating across disciplines to ensure safety, reliability, and on-time cadence.

Requires 5–8+ years in propulsion or aerospace with leadership capabilities; experience with high‑reliability systems and mission simulations is preferred. Base pay VA range posted, with ITAR considerations.

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 proficiency with rocket propulsion systems and fluid/thermal systems.
• Experience with high-reliability aerospace systems design, test, or operations.
• Experience with vehicle tanking, propellant handling, and pressurized fluid systems.
• Demonstrated leadership competencies, especially change management, conflict resolution, knowing when to scale/request help, and effectively managing a team.
• Understanding of hazardous operations and safety protocols for propulsion systems.
• Experience developing operational procedures, test plans, and conducting mission simulations.
• Experience with launch vehicle operations including integration, testing, launch, or mission operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage teams of engineers for vehicle mechanical, propulsion, and fluid systems across Electron and Neutron operations.
• Serve as console operator in Mission Control during test campaigns, rehearsals, and launches.
• Develop CONOPS for vehicle systems and oversee test plans and procedures.
• Create HMIs for monitoring and control of vehicle systems.
• Lead readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals for vehicle operations.
• Perform real-time troubleshooting and data analysis during live operations to resolve anomalies.
• Analyze post-test data to identify trends and improvements.
• Develop training programs and qualification matrices for operators.

Education

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

Job description

Rocket Lab in Virginia seeks a Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer for electron and neutron launch vehicle operations. You will oversee testing, launch readiness, and mission operations, coordinating across disciplines to ensure safety, reliability, and on-time cadence.

Requires 5–8+ years in propulsion or aerospace with leadership capabilities; experience with high‑reliability systems and mission simulations is preferred. Base pay VA range posted, with ITAR considerations.