Operations Engineer

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space company responsible for constructing rockets, spacecraft, and vital subsystems that connect and protect the world, while expanding human exploration to the Moon, Mars, and further. We prioritize rapid innovation and tangible outcomes, making the extraordinary routine.

Space Systems Team

This team oversees every satellite and its components produced by Rocket Lab, ranging from full satellites targeting lunar and Martian missions to individual parts such as solar arrays, flight control software, reaction wheels, star trackers, separation mechanisms, and communication devices. Comprised of engineers, technicians, and designers, this team designs, builds, and assembles satellites for commercial, government, and defense clients, as well as satellite hardware and software supporting various missions.

Role Overview

As an Operations Engineer II stationed at our Auckland Production Complex, you will manage spacecraft operations across a varied and expanding collection of missions—from Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations to deep space exploration endeavors. Your responsibilities will encompass not only spacecraft control but also developing the operational methods by designing automation, software solutions, and ensuring mission success from initial concept to spacecraft re-entry.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate spacecraft predominantly through automation-centered command systems.
• Design, develop, and test both ground and flight software for missions expected to span extended durations.
• Create and maintain dependable operational scripts along with telemetry and Fault Detection, Isolation, and Recovery (FDIR) configurations.
• Lead validation efforts utilizing simulation tools such as Hardware-In-The-Loop (HITL) and flatsat platforms.
• Provide support throughout spacecraft integration, testing phases, launch, and on-orbit operations.
• Promote ongoing enhancements in systems, procedural workflows, and overall performance.

Preferred Attributes

• Strong technical expertise paired with decisiveness, curiosity, and a solution-driven mindset.
• Capability to solve intricate engineering challenges and identify viable pathways forward.
• Complete ownership of projects with the ability to deliver high-quality outcomes under pressure.
• Effective communication skills, respectful challenge of ideas, and commitment to deep collaboration.
• Systematic thinking with risk-awareness and optimization for practical, real-world results.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in aerospace, systems, software engineering, or related engineering disciplines.
• At least three years of experience in space mission design, satellite subsystem development, ground system operation, or spacecraft commanding.
• Experience with mission planning, satellite subsystems, ground system management, or spacecraft operational command.
• Proficiency working with Linux operating systems and development experience in programming languages such as Python, C++, or comparable high-level languages.
• Comprehensive understanding of spacecraft systems including attitude determination and control system (ADCS), power, communications, command and data handling (C&DH), and thermal management.
• Knowledge of orbital mechanics, space environment factors, and spacecraft dynamics.
• Demonstrated success working effectively in fast-paced environments requiring management of multiple priorities.

Desirable Qualifications

• Postgraduate degree in Aerospace Engineering.
• Hands-on experience with spacecraft operations, satellite design, or ground systems.
• Familiarity with current development tools such as Git, Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD), and cloud platforms.
• Experience conducting Hardware-In-The-Loop (HITL) testing.

Additional Information

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to creating spacecraft that push beyond current limits by operating smarter and achieving unprecedented mission success.

Work Culture and Expectations

Our mission is to unlock space's potential to benefit life on Earth, which demands hard work, innovation, resilience, and teamwork. We emphasize humility, dedication, and a results-focused approach, thriving under pressure and tight deadlines with a priority on delivery rather than obstacles.

Location-Specific Regulatory Requirements

For candidates applying to U.S. offices, compliance with U.S. Government export regulations (ITAR) is mandatory. Eligibility requires U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residency, refugee or asylum status, or obtaining necessary authorizations from U.S. departments.

For candidates in New Zealand offices, security and nationality checks are conducted to ensure access compliance under ITAR regulations. Eligibility includes citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the EU, NATO members, and restrictions may apply with dual citizenships.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Rocket Lab is committed to equal employment opportunities, prohibiting discrimination or harassment based on protected characteristics in all employment aspects, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, and training.