Ground Systems Engineer II​/Senior - Automation Controls

Overview

Ground Systems Engineer II/Senior - Automation Controls at Rocket Lab. Based out of Rocket Lab's Stennis Test Complex in Stennis Space Center, MS. The GSE Automation Controls is responsible for commissioning, testing, updating, and troubleshooting ground support software systems as well as engine and test site software interfaces. The role directly supports Neutron engine test campaigns in close collaboration with operators, the engine development team, software development teams and the ground systems instrumentation & control teams.

This role may support other activities on occasion such as Neutron test and launch campaigns at Rocket Lab’s Launch Complex in Wallops Island, VA.

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

• Support propulsion engineers and test operators to troubleshoot software issues across all systems at the test site, including but not limited to cloud-based data processing services, site and engine data interfaces, and operator consoles.
• Collaborate with IT, Ground Systems Instrumentation & Control, and terrestrial and vehicle software teams to deploy and commission test site software systems.
• Support the certification of test pad systems by producing documentation, operator manuals, maintenance procedures, test procedures, and work instructions.
• Develop and execute test plans to validate the performance of ground software systems and engine interfaces.
• Perform post-test data analysis and reporting.
• Be point of contact for any software-related requests on site, implementing changes yourself or escalating to development teams as required.
• Support test operators remotely or in person during installation, commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting activities.
• Developing and troubleshooting PLC programs for automating test operations.

As a Level II Engineer

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or equivalent qualification
• 2+ years of demonstrated experience developing software
• Hands-on experience with data processing systems
• Proficiency in Git and working with issue trackers

As a Senior Engineer I

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or equivalent qualification
• 5+ years of demonstrated experience developing software
• Hands-on experience with data processing systems
• Proficiency in Git and working with issue trackers

As a Senior Engineer II

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or equivalent qualification
• 8+ years of demonstrated experience developing software
• Hands-on experience with data processing systems
• Proficiency in Git and working with issue trackers

• Experience with programming languages such as C++, Python, Go, C#, XAML
• Experience with object-oriented programming
• Experience with Beckhoff TwinCAT and IEC 61131-3 PLC languages
• Experience with Kubernetes & Docker
• Proficiency working with the Linux command line and Team City

• 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
• Position requires approximately 10% domestic travel to support test and launch campaigns

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.

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident, or otherwise eligible for required authorizations. See ITAR information.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process should contact the provided resource.

Security background checks are undertaken prior to any employment offers, including nationality checks to access equipment and data regulated by ITAR.