Ground Systems Engineer , Controls

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.

Based out of Rocket Lab’s Test Facility at Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, the Ground Systems Engineer supports critical test facilities for 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, supporting the Fluid Systems and Propulsion organizations through delivery of functional control systems required to perform hot‑fire tests and checkout functions.

• 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 and 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, mechatronics, or controls engineering.
• Demonstrated experience designing, building, and operating controls or mechatronic systems at aerospace test or launch facilities in internships, college activities, or prior employment.

• Master’s degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering or a related 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 troubleshoot facility electrical systems and generate corrective work instructions.
• Working knowledge of computer networks and IT infrastructure.
• Knowledge of PLCs, data acquisition, and instrumentation.
• Demonstrated experience working with various disciplines, 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.

• Specific vision abilities required: close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
• 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 levels of noise.
• Ability to support nights and weekend work as needed.

US Office Eligibility: 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, or be 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.

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.

New Zealand Office Eligibility: For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers. 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 ITAR. Candidates must hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or must not hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality.