Manager, Test & Launch Operations

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is an integrated space company that delivers launch services, spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and related capabilities to expand access to space. Its rockets and satellites support major missions around the world, including scientific research, Earth observation, climate-focused missions, national security programs, and new technology demonstrations.

Electron has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket each year and has already placed more than 230 satellites into orbit. In parallel, Rocket Lab is developing Neutron, a reusable medium-lift launch vehicle designed for larger constellation deployments. The Space Systems division creates satellites, payloads, and components, including hardware selected for NASA lunar and Martian missions and parts used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

Role overview

Rocket Lab is hiring a Manager for Test & Launch Operations to lead frontline engineering teams responsible for critical testing and launch activities for Electron and Neutron. This position is central to sustaining the company’s high launch pace and ensuring operations run safely, reliably, and efficiently.

The role involves building strong teams, shaping operating systems and procedures, and guiding complex missions from preparation through execution. It suits a leader who performs well in demanding, fast-moving environments where safety, precision, and rapid decision-making all matter equally.

What success in this role looks like

You will be expected to navigate regulatory obligations, support continuous improvement, and help keep launch and test operations moving at the speed required in a highly competitive environment. The job is challenging, high-pressure, and closely tied to mission success.

Qualifications and experience

The ideal candidate will bring a strong engineering background, deep operations exposure, and proven leadership in time-sensitive settings. This is not a standard Monday-to-Friday role; it requires commitment, resilience, and a strong appetite for meaningful work with real-world impact.

Important information

For candidates applying to roles in the United States, employment may be subject to export-control rules under ITAR, which can require U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, refugee or asylum status, or eligibility for the relevant authorizations from the U.S. Departments of State or Commerce.

Rocket Lab is an equal opportunity employer and does not tolerate discrimination or harassment on the basis of any legally protected characteristic.

For applicants in the United States who need a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, a dedicated contact is provided for disability-related support only, and responses may take up to two business days.

For candidates applying to New Zealand roles, background checks will be completed before any offer is made. These checks include nationality verification because access to certain equipment and data regulated under U.S. ITAR rules is required for the position. Candidates may be ineligible if they do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a NATO member country, or if they have disallowed dual citizenship or nationality.

Work culture

Rocket Lab emphasizes hard work, determination, teamwork, initiative, and a commitment to solving difficult problems. The environment is fast-paced, deadline-driven, and focused on delivery, with a strong culture of shared accountability and practical problem-solving.