Test Operations Engineer II​/Senior Test Operations Engineer

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 space. The rockets and satellites we build, and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

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 will deliver a highly cost‑effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program.

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, and 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, monitoring instrumentation, and command‑and‑control systems. You must be responsible for the safety of yourself and those around you, may be asked to directly support engine hardware and engine checkout operations, and will 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.

• Perform facility test operations on console while maintaining situational awareness and constant communication with others involved in the test activity
• 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
• 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

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

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

• 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…