Senior Vehicle Test & Launch Operations Lead

HBCUNetwork; Virginia, Northern (IL, KY); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab, based at Wallops Island, VA, seeks a Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer to oversee end-to-end testing, launch, and mission operations for Electron and Neutron vehicles, including facility readiness and instrumentation.

You will lead teams, drive operational readiness reviews, develop CONOPS, training, and procedures, and serve as the technical authority during mission-critical operations, balancing hands-on console work with leadership and strategic planning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, chemical engineering, or other technical degree.
• 5-8+ years of engineering experience with propulsion, 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.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of engineers responsible for vehicle mechanical, propulsion, and fluid systems for Electron and Neutron launches.
• Work in Mission Control as the console operator for vehicle systems during tests, rehearsals, and launches.
• Develop and maintain CONOPS for vehicle mechanical and propulsion systems.
• Create and continually improve test plans, procedures, and checklists for vehicle operations.
• Design and implement HMIs for vehicle monitoring and control.
• Lead operational readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals.
• Perform real-time troubleshooting and data analysis during live operations to resolve anomalies.
• Conduct post-test and post-launch data analysis to identify trends and improvements.

Skills

Team leadership

Mission Control operations

Propulsion systems

Fluid/thermal systems

Operational procedures

Hazardous operations safety

Education

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

Job description

Rocket Lab, based at Wallops Island, VA, seeks a Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer to oversee end-to-end testing, launch, and mission operations for Electron and Neutron vehicles, including facility readiness and instrumentation.

You will lead teams, drive operational readiness reviews, develop CONOPS, training, and procedures, and serve as the technical authority during mission-critical operations, balancing hands-on console work with leadership and strategic planning.