Test and Launch Operations Engineer I

Rocket Lab; Wallops Island (VA); On-site; USD 76,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company stock

Cash incentives

Employee Stock Purchase Program

Medical, dental, vision benefits

401(k) retirement plan

Paid vacation

Paid parental leave

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking a Testing & Launch Operations Engineer I to collaborate in operating the Electron and Neutron launch vehicles. This role will involve executing complex test sequences and making critical go/no-go decisions during launch operations.

Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering and experience in engineering design or operations. You'll support the development and testing of launch systems, lead testing campaigns, and troubleshoot issues in real-time.

Join us in opening access to space while working in a dynamic environment!

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (preferably Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, or Mechatronic Engineering).
• 1+ year of experience in engineering design, test, and/or operations focused on electrical/software engineering.
• 2+ years of relevant experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.

Responsibilities

• Operate Electron and Neutron ground systems as a launch console operator during tests, rehearsals, and launches.
• Support development, integration, and testing of launch pad infrastructure, GSE, and facility systems.
• Lead and execute testing campaigns, including GSE commissioning and ground system readiness checks.

Skills

Engineering design

Test operations

Real-time issue troubleshooting

Fluid systems understanding

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering

Tools

Ground Support Equipment (GSE)

Job description

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is an end‑to‑end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, while we are developing Neutron, a medium‑lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellations. Our Space Systems business designs and builds satellites, payloads, and components, including spacecraft selected for NASA missions and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

About Neutron

Neutron is a medium‑lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega‑constellations of tomorrow, high‑assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron offers a cost‑effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program.

Testing & Launch Operations Engineer I

As a member of Rocket Lab’s Test & Launch Operations team, you will operate the Electron and Neutron launch vehicles from the control room throughout integrated system testing and launch operations. You will execute complex test sequences, monitor real‑time ground systems data, make critical go/no‑go decisions, and command ground support systems during countdown and flight operations. This role is within the Ground Systems discipline, responsible for launch pad infrastructure, ground support equipment (GSE), fluid systems, and all facility operations that enable launch.

What You’ll Get To Do

• Operate Electron and Neutron ground systems as a launch console operator during tests, rehearsals, and launches.
• Support development, integration, and testing of launch pad infrastructure, GSE, and facility systems.
• Lead and execute testing campaigns, including GSE commissioning and ground system readiness checks.
• Manage configuration and verification of launch pad hardware and facility systems.
• Develop operational procedures, test plans, and emergency response protocols for ground operations.
• Design and improve HMIs for ground control systems to enhance operator efficiency.
• Troubleshoot and resolve real‑time issues during test and launch operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (preferably Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, or Mechatronic Engineering).
• 1+ year of experience in engineering design, test, and/or operations focused on electrical/software engineering.
• 2+ years of relevant experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.

Nice to Have

• 2+ years of experience in engineering design, test, and/or operations.
• Background in launch complex infrastructure, pad systems, or GSE design/operations.
• Solid understanding and hands‑on experience with fluid systems, cryogenic systems, pressurized systems, and hazardous materials handling.
• Good understanding and practical experience conducting real‑time hazardous operations with propellants, high‑pressure gases, or hydraulic systems.
• Experience developing operational procedures, test plans, CONOPS documentation, or emergency response procedures.

Technical Conditions

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.

Salary & Benefits

Base Pay Range (VA Only): $76,000 USD–$95,000 USD. Base salary is only one portion of Rocket Lab’s compensation package, which may include company stock, cash incentives, and the Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401(k) retirement plan options, paid vacation, holidays, sick leave, paid parental leave, and additional discounts and perks.

Important Information

US Offices Only

To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident, or meet applicable authorization requirements. Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to protected characteristics. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process should contact Giulia Johnson at [e-mail].

New Zealand Offices Only

Background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers. Eligibility requirements under ITAR include citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the EU, or a NATO member, or holding eligible dual citizenship.