Test Operations Engineer II/Senior Test Operations Engineer

Rocket Lab USA; Mississippi; On-site; USD 75,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab USA seeks a Test Operations Engineer to work at Stennis Space Center, Mississippi. Responsibilities include activating critical test facilities, conducting safe operations, and collaborating with engineering teams on the Archimedes rocket engine and Neutron launch vehicle. Candidates should have a degree in a relevant field and experience in rocket engine test operations. This role offers an innovative environment within a leading aerospace company, focused on space exploration and technology.

Qualifications

• 2+ years experience for Engineer II or 5+ years for Senior Engineer I operating rocket engine test stands or launch complexes.
• Strong technical discipline and expertise required for mechanical systems and monitoring instrumentation.

Responsibilities

• Perform facility test operations while maintaining situational awareness.
• Lead and be part of teams to set up and operate the test facility.
• Conduct test operations safely to ensure data quality.
• Collaborate with engine and vehicle design teams for testing.

Skills

Facility test operations

Troubleshooting

Team leadership

Communication

Mechanical systems expertise

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, or electrical engineering

Job description

Test Operations Engineer

Based out of Rocket Lab's Test Facility at Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, the Test Operations Engineer is responsible for activation and operations of critical test facilities to support the Archimedes rocket engine and the Neutron launch vehicle. You will collaborate closely with Engine and Vehicle Propulsion groups to develop test procedures and test sequencing requirements. You will be responsible for configuration, checkout and operations of the engine hot fire facility and associated support infrastructure. Your work will require technical discipline and expertise in mechanical systems but also in monitoring instrumentation and command and control systems. You must be responsible for safety of you and those around you. You may be asked to directly support engine hardware and engine checkout operations. You will become skilled in Test Operations roles and be expected to work independently in support of the overall test facility design, build, activation, and engine test efforts.

Note: This position can be hired as a Level II or Senior Engineer I.

What you’ll get to do

• Perform facility test operations on console while maintaining situational awareness and constant communication with others involved in the test activity
• Both lead and be part of a team of technicians and engineers who set up and operate the test facility
• Conduct test operations safely and ensure the quality and integrity of data is maintained
• Perform troubleshooting to resolve facility and test operations issues
• Work to plan and optimize checkout, processing, testing and post-test operations
• Collaborate with Archimedes engine and Neutron vehicle design teams to prepare and perform tests on key engine and stage hardware
• Work hand in hand with the GSE teams to complete design, build, installation and checkout of facility systems
  • This includes helping maintain cleanliness and integrity of systems, ensuring proper checkouts are performed, and data acquisition systems are properly calibrated

You’ll bring the following qualifications as an Engineer II

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, or electrical engineering; or other technical discipline
• 2+ years experience operating rocket engine test stands or launch complexes

You’ll bring the following qualifications as a Senior Engineer I

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, or electrical engineering; or other technical discipline
• 5+ years experience operating rocket engine test stands or launch complexes

Nice to have

• Broad general background in your engineering discipline with ability to design systems and develop computer tools for automation or analysis
• Experience operating facilities for liquid oxygen and liquid methane
• Background that demonstrates personal development which might include pilot training, scouting, sports teams especially any leadership roles in those activities
• Working knowledge of computer networks and IT infrastructure
• Demonstrated experience working with various disciplines, fabricators and suppliers to achieve on-time project execution
• Ability to remain unfazed by ambiguity or changes in strategic direction while maintaining a positive attitude and being self-actualized and self-guided

Additional requirements

• Ability to travel and communicate outside of work hours
• Must be able to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise
• Ability to work extended hours or weekends as needed for mission critical deadlines

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.