Senior Vehicle Test & Launch Operations Lead

Rocket Lab Corporation; Wallops Island (VA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

401(k)

Medical insurance

Paid time off

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking an experienced Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer to oversee end-to-end testing, launch, and mission operations for Electron and Neutron, including facility readiness and team leadership.

You will develop CONOPS, create robust test plans, and lead readiness reviews while mentoring engineers across multiple propulsion and fluid systems. Collaboration with operations, training, and engineering teams will ensure mission success.

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.

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 CONOPS for vehicle mechanical and propulsion systems.
• Create and continuously improve test plans, operational procedures, and checklists for vehicle operations.
• Design and implement 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.

Skills

Team leadership

Mission Control

Operational readiness

Root-cause analysis

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, chemical engineering

Tools

HMIs

Job description

Rocket Lab is seeking an experienced Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer to oversee end-to-end testing, launch, and mission operations for Electron and Neutron, including facility readiness and team leadership.

You will develop CONOPS, create robust test plans, and lead readiness reviews while mentoring engineers across multiple propulsion and fluid systems. Collaboration with operations, training, and engineering teams will ensure mission success.