Spacecraft Operations Engineer Pipeline

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive aerospace company engaged in the design and manufacture of rockets, spacecraft, and essential subsystems. Our mission is to enable global connectivity, protection, and expand human presence to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We operate with speed, focus on building tangible hardware for impactful missions, and normalize extraordinary achievements. Join us to contribute to the advancement of space exploration.

Space Systems Team

The Space Systems team at Rocket Lab develops complete satellites and individual satellite components such as solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels, star trackers, separation systems, and radios for missions serving commercial, governmental, and defense clients. Our multidisciplinary team of engineers, technicians, and designers create and assemble satellites and supporting hardware/software internally or for third parties.

Role Overview

Situated at our Auckland Production Complex, the Spacecraft Operations Engineer is responsible for managing operations across a varied and expanding satellite fleet ranging from Low Earth Orbit constellations to deep space exploration projects. You will design operation methodologies emphasizing automation, oversee software development and mission success from initial design through re-entry, and collaborate closely with experts in propulsion, flight software, guidance, navigation and control (GNC), and mission design to transform bold concepts into reality quickly.

Primary Responsibilities

• Operate spacecraft with a focus on automated command and control
• Develop and evaluate ground and onboard software supporting long-duration missions
• Create resilient operational scripts and configure telemetry and fault detection, isolation, and recovery (FDIR) systems
• Lead mission validation efforts utilizing simulation resources such as Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) and flatsat testing
• Provide operational support throughout integration, testing, launch, and in-orbit phases
• Continuously enhance systems, operational procedures, and performance metrics

Preferred Attributes

• Technically adept with decisive and inquisitive problem-solving skills
• Ability to navigate complex engineering challenges and identify pragmatic solutions
• Complete ownership of tasks and deliver results effectively under pressure
• Communicate clearly, embrace constructive challenge, and work collaboratively
• System-level thinker who assesses risks and optimizes for practical outcomes

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Software Engineering, or related engineering discipline
• At least three years of experience in space mission design, satellite subsystems, ground systems, or spacecraft operations/command
• Strong foundation in spacecraft subsystems including Attitude Determination and Control System (ADCS), power management, communications, Command and Data Handling (C&DH), and thermal control systems
• Proficient with Linux operating environments and experience with software development in Python, C++, or similar languages
• Deep understanding of orbital mechanics, space environment, and spacecraft dynamics
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in fast-paced, multi-tasking environments

Desirable Qualifications

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

Additional Information

This position entails crucial regulatory adherence due to U.S. Government space technology export controls (ITAR). Prospective candidates for U.S. offices must fulfill U.S. citizenship or legal residency requirements or be eligible for required government authorizations.

For candidates applying to the New Zealand office, pre-employment background checks including nationality verification will be conducted to ensure compliance with ITAR regulations. Eligibility is restricted to citizens of certain countries including Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, NATO members, or those without conflicting dual citizenship.

Rocket Lab is committed to equal opportunity employment and prohibits discrimination based on diverse protected characteristics. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities during hiring processes.