Test and Launch Engineer II - Launch Pad Rocket Lab · Wallops Island, Virginia, VA 08/15/2026

Moss Interactive, LLC; Virginia, Northern (IL, KY); Hybrid; USD 87,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking a Test and Launch Engineer II for Launch Pad operations in Mission Control. You will develop procedures, monitor ground systems, and lead maintenance and improvements across Electron and Neutron programs.

You'll mentor operators, perform real-time data analysis, and drive continuous operational improvements, with emphasis on safety and reliability during test campaigns and launches.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations.
• 4+ years of experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering preferred (Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, or Chemical).

Responsibilities

• Work in Mission Control as a console operator for launch pad systems during test campaigns, rehearsals, and launch operations.
• Develop and maintain test plans, operational procedures, and checklists for ground systems operations.
• Develop and improve HMIs for ground systems monitoring and control.
• Participate in operational readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals.
• Perform real-time troubleshooting and data analysis during live operations to resolve ground systems issues.
• Conduct post-test and post-launch data analysis to support continuous improvement efforts.
• Lead testing projects for ground systems, including cryogenic loading tests and integrated pad operations.
• Mentor and train other operators on launch pad systems and ground operations.

Skills

Engineering experience

Troubleshooting

Mentoring

Project leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

PLCs

SCADA

HMIs

Job description

Test and Launch Engineer II - Launch Pad

TEST AND LAUNCH ENGINEER II – LAUNCH PAD

The Test and Launch Operations team at Rocket Lab manages all aspects of testing, launching, and mission operations for the Electron and Neutron rockets, including facility and equipment oversight. Test and Launch Engineers serve as mission controllers, developing procedures, conducting real-time operations, analyzing data, and ensuring safe and reliable launches from Mission Control. They are responsible for troubleshooting issues, leading training exercises, and making critical decisions during live missions. Test and Launch Engineer II position is an advanced role for operators who can independently manage console operations, mentor junior staff, and lead projects to improve procedures and systems. This engineer plays a key role in continuous operational improvement and support both Electron and Neutron missions.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO

• Work in Mission Control as a console operator for launch pad systems during test campaigns, rehearsals, and launch operations
• Develop and maintain test plans, operational procedures, and checklists for ground systems operations
• Develop and improve Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) for ground systems monitoring and control
• Participate in operational readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals
• Perform real-time troubleshooting and data analysis during live operations to resolve ground systems issues
• Conduct post-test and post-launch data analysis to support continuous improvement efforts
• Develop, operate, and test ground systems relating to Electron and Neutron launch vehicles
• Oversee the configuration and checkout of launch pad systems including GSE, fluid systems, and industrial controls
• Lead and manage testing projects for ground systems, including cryogenic loading tests, pressurization system checkouts, and integrated pad operations
• Mentor and train other operators within the Test and Launch Operations team on launch pad systems and ground operations
• Author, review and carry out operations procedures for launch pad systems
• Support the development of Neutron ground systems and operations procedures
• Receive instructional training and become qualified as a launch operator on Electron launch vehicles

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (preferably Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, or Chemical Engineering)
• 2+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations, with focus on ground systems, industrial controls, or fluid systems
• 4+ years of experience will be considered in lieu of a degree

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE

• 3+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations
• Experience working in Mission Control or similar operational control environments
• Aviation/Aircrew/Flight Test may be considered an alternative
• Experience with launch vehicles or spacecraft including integration, testing, launch, or mission operations
• Experience with ground support equipment, launch pad systems, or industrial control systems
• Solid understanding and experience working with fluid/cryogenic/pressurized/hazardous systems
• Good understanding/experience of real-time hazardous operations
• Experience with PLCs, SCADA systems, or automated control sequences
• Knowledge of propellant handling operations
• Experience developing operational procedures, test plans, or HMIs
• Background in real-time data analysis and troubleshooting

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Base Pay Range (VA Only)

$87,000 - $110,000 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.