Integrated Operations Engineer I/II - Team X

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive aerospace company dedicated to designing and manufacturing rockets, spacecraft, and essential subsystems that maintain global connectivity and safety while extending human presence to the Moon, Mars, and further. The company prioritizes speed, hands-on hardware development for significant missions, and turning ambitious goals into routine achievements.

Role Overview

The Integrated Operations team manages Electron launch vehicle and Photon spacecraft testing and operations. This includes stack testing, pre-launch processing, launch execution, on-orbit control, and mission disposal. Operations may take place remotely or onsite at various facilities including propulsion test centers, mission control in Auckland, and launch complexes in New Zealand and the USA.

The Integrated Operations Engineer I is a mid-level role requiring a solid understanding of multiple engineering disciplines related to test and operational functions. The engineer is expected to work independently in specific operational areas and actively contribute to projects aimed at enhancing processes and tools.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare for and execute testing activities, pre-launch preparations, and launch procedures.
• Specify requirements for tests and operational processes.
• Create, coordinate, and implement plans and procedures ensuring effective, efficient, and safe test and mission operations.
• Operate on-console during testing and launches, maintaining situational awareness and continuous communication.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues during tests and operations in real time.
• Investigate failures thoroughly and determine root causes to prevent repeat problems.
• Analyze data post-test and post-flight to extract actionable insights.
• Continuously optimize integration, testing, and operational workflows.
• Travel domestically and internationally as required.

Required Qualifications

• A degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or an equivalent field.
• Between two to five years of professional experience in engineering design, testing, or operational roles.
• Familiarity and expertise with mechanical system components such as structures, mechanisms, propulsion, pressurization, hydraulics, pneumatics, HVAC, instrumentation, or command and control systems.
• Ability to maintain high situational awareness and communication during complex operations.
• Detail-oriented with a meticulous approach to work.
• Proven ability to perform under pressure and adhere to tight deadlines.
• Self-motivated, positive, and driven work ethic.

Preferred Qualifications

• Additional two to five years of experience in design, testing, or operations engineering.
• Experience with coding or programming.
• Background in working in high-stress, safety-critical environments.
• Hands-on experience with launch vehicle or spacecraft integration, testing, launch activities, or on-console mission support.

Additional Information

Rocket Lab’s culture embodies determination, innovation, teamwork, and resilience, emphasizing delivering results despite challenges. Employees support each other, set aside egos, and engage in all tasks with commitment. The role requires thriving under stress and meeting tight deadlines.

For U.S. Candidates: Compliance with U.S. Government regulations including ITAR is mandatory. Eligibility includes U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or those legally permitted to obtain necessary export authorizations.

For New Zealand Candidates: Background and nationality checks are required for security compliance with U.S. ITAR regulations. Eligible citizenship includes Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, EU countries, NATO members, and limitations apply for those with certain dual citizenships.

Rocket Lab is an equal opportunity employer prohibiting discrimination across all protected groups and ensures reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities.