ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

ABOUT SPACE SYSTEMS AT ROCKET LAB:

Rocket Labs Space Systems team is responsible for every satellite and satellite component made by Rocket Lab: from complete satellites destined for missions to the Moon and Mars, to the individual components and subsystems that make up a satellite like solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels and star trackers, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team is made up of engineers and technicians who design, create, and put together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defense sectors, or who build and assemble satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions.

AVIONICS ENGINEER II - TEST

As an Avionics Engineer II - Test, you will be planning and executing test campaigns for avionics and power electronic systems, including hands-on troubleshooting, failure analysis, and developing automated test tools using programming languages like Python and C/C++.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

Plan, develop, and execute test campaigns for avionics components and subsystems, including high-voltage and power electronic systems.
Collaborate with design engineers and customers to generate and document test requirements.
Perform hands-on troubleshooting during component bring-up, integration, and operations.
Conduct root-cause failure investigations and implement corrective actions.
Develop and verify analytical and empirical models for electrical systems.
Design and implement automated test architectures and data analysis tools.
Write automation software (Python, C/C++) for test equipment and data acquisition.
Support the design and development of electronic circuits and assemblies for automated testing.
Review and analyze system-level test data from integrated testing and launch campaigns.
Provide guidance and support to production technicians and manufacturing engineers.
Create and maintain technical documentation, procedures, and training materials.
Ensure compliance with health and safety policies and procedures.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a related field.
4+ years of experience in hardware development or electronics test engineering.
Hands-on experience with instrumentation and sensors (oscilloscopes, power supplies, accelerometers, thermocouples, RTDs, 4-20mA sensors).
Experience conducting aerospace environmental testing (vibration, shock, thermal, TVAC).
Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills for electronic hardware.
Proficiency with electrical test equipment and data acquisition systems.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, autonomous, and collaborative environment.
Excellent communication and documentation skills.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

Experience designing hardware from concept through to production.
3+ years of programming experience in Python, C, C++, or Matlab.
Experience with FPGA-based systems and high-voltage electronics.
Familiarity with PCB design tools (Altium, Eagle, KiCAD, etc.).
Experience developing automated test equipment and data analysis tools.
Knowledge of root cause analysis methodologies such as FMECA.
Prior experience in the aerospace or space systems industry.
Experience supporting production lines and training technicians.

If this sounds like you - Apply today!

WHAT TO EXPECT

Were on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but thats 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 others 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.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.

Avionics Engineer II – Test

Rocket Lab USA

Job Description