Avionics Automation Test Engineer

Avionics Automation Test Engineer I

Long Beach, CA

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 Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it's a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

We're currently seeking an Avionics Automation Test Engineer I for our global headquarters in Long Beach, CA. This team is responsible for automating and improving the testing efficiency of both the individual avionics and the completed satellites.

What You'll Get To Do:

• Develop automated testing software for support of test programs
• Collaborate with the hardware design engineers to develop efficient testing strategies for Acceptance and Qualification test programs
• Support the design and development of space flight hardware to increase the level of design for testability and manufacturability
• Support and improve manufacturing and production software tools
• Contribute to the development of engineering and business processes, including engineering and test processes, as well as other business processes to support Rocket Lab growth and capability

You'll Bring These Qualifications As Avionics Automation Test Engineer I:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or other technical discipline
• Programming experience in Python
• Experience with software development on a Linux platform
• Experience with hardware development or electronics test engineering
• Understanding of electrical test equipment, test procedures, data acquisition systems, and instrumentation
• U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements

These Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have:

• Space industry experience in integration and/or test with spacecraft
• Experience with communication protocols like TCP/ UDP, serial communication or similar
• Experience working with software unit testing, such as pytest or robot framework
• Experience working in a hardware or spacecraft production environment
• Experience with JavaScript or Type Script

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.

Other perks include:
Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts. Eligibility for benefits may vary based on…