Ground Systems Engineer II - Electrical

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 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.

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program.

Based out of Rocket Lab's Test Facility at Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, the Ground Systems Electrical Engineer II is responsible for critical test facilities to support the Archimedes rocket engine and the Neutron launch vehicle. You will work from conceptual design through build-out and activation of a brand new, from the ground up test facility. You will support the Fluid Systems and Propulsion organizations through delivery of functional ground systems required to perform necessary hot fire tests and checkout functions to ensure successful development and operations of engines and vehicle systems.

You will become skilled in Test Operations roles and be expected to work independently in support of the overall test facility design, build and activation efforts!

• Design critical test infrastructure including process diagrams; line drawings; electrical system layout for power, lighting, computer systems; data acquisition system front and back ends; and instrumentation systems
• Specify and procure electrical and computer systems equipment including data acquisition, PLC, and instrumentation
• Coordinate with vendors and facilities groups to design, purchase, and fabricate key subsystems.
• Collaborate closely with other Rocket Lab test and launch sites to ensure safety and seamless operation of electrical ground systems
• Work onsite at our test facility for build-out & activation including preparation of test procedures, interfacing with data acquisition and control systems, and collecting and interpreting critical data to support test facility readiness
• Collaborate with Archimedes engine and Neutron vehicle design teams to prepare and perform tests on key engine and stage hardware

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, electronics engineering, computer engineering or equivalent disciplines
• 2+ years’ experience designing and operating electrical systems for test stands or large industrial complexes
• Demonstrated experience designing, building and operating electrical systems at aerospace test or launch facilities either in internships, college activities or prior employment

• A Masters degree or PHD in Electrical Engineering or related engineering field.
• Experience operating facilities for liquid oxygen and liquid methane
• Knowledge of electrical safety and design codes like NFPA 70A
• Experience with National Instruments LabVIEW software and hardware
• Ability to trouble shoot facility electrical systems and generate corrective work instructions
• Working knowledge of computer networks and IT infrastructure
• Knowledge of PLCs, data acquisition and instrumentation is a big plus
• Demonstrated experience working with various disciplines,…