Test Operations Engineer II

Test Operations Engineer II

Based out of Rocket Lab’s Test Facility at Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, the Test Operations Engineer II is responsible for activation and operation of critical test facilities to support the Archimedes rocket engine and the Neutron launch vehicle. You will collaborate closely with Engine and Vehicle Propulsion groups to develop test procedures and sequencing requirements, and you will be responsible for configuration, checkout, and operation of the engine hot‑fire facility and its support infrastructure.

Your work requires technical discipline in mechanical systems as well as strong expertise in monitoring instrumentation and command‑and‑control systems. You must uphold safety for yourself and others and may be asked to support engine hardware, checkout operations, and broader test facility design, build, activation, and engine test efforts.

• Perform facility test operations from the console while maintaining situational awareness and constant communication with other team members.
• Lead and collaborate with technicians and engineers who set up and operate the test facility.
• Conduct test operations safely to ensure the quality and integrity of data.
• Perform troubleshooting to resolve facility and test operations issues.
• Plan and optimize checkout, processing, testing, and post‑test operations.
• Collaborate with Archimedes engine and Neutron vehicle design teams to prepare and perform tests on key engine and stage hardware.
• Work hand in hand with the GSE teams to complete design, build, installation, and checkout of facility systems, including maintaining cleanliness and integrity of systems, ensuring proper checkouts, and calibrating data acquisition systems.

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or electrical engineering (or other technical discipline).
• At least 2 years of experience operating rocket engine test stands or launch complexes.
• Knowledge of National Instruments LabVIEW software and hardware.

• Broad background in engineering with ability to design systems and develop computer tools for automation or analysis.
• Experience operating facilities for liquid oxygen and liquid methane.
• Experience in leadership roles, such as pilot training, scouting, or sports teams.
• Working knowledge of computer networks and IT infrastructure.
• Experience collaborating with fabricators and suppliers to achieve on‑time project execution.
• Ability to remain unfazed by ambiguity or changes in strategic direction while maintaining a positive attitude.

• Ability to travel and communicate outside of work hours.
• Must be able to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed.
• Specific vision abilities required, including close, distance, peripheral, and depth perception.
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate a computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings.
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes, and moderate noise levels.

At Rocket Lab, we strive to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth. Our culture demands hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others deem impossible. We thrive under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and focus on delivering results.

To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or otherwise authorized to obtain the required U.S. Department of State and/or Commerce authorizations. Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application or interview process may contact Giulia Johnson at .

For government reporting purposes, we ask candidates to respond to a voluntary self‑identification survey. Completion of the form is entirely voluntary and will not be considered in the hiring process.