Recovery Controller

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. If you’re interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re‑usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!

Rocket Lab is actively seeking an individual to join the Neutron Recovery team in Baltimore MD. The Recovery Controller will be a key stakeholder in developing and coordinating Neutron landing operations as part of the on console launch team. Our Recovery Controller will be responsible for controlling our recovery barge and related launch vehicle systems to ensure a successful landing.

• Lead the execution of Neutron landing and recovery operations while controlling recovery vessels/sites, flight proven boosters, and launch countdown automation from the control room
• Optimize, coordinate, and troubleshoot offshore operations remotely with supporting engineering teams and a skilled technician workforce
• Set up and operate remote control systems to facilitate marine vessel operations and Neutron landing
• Complete post-landing securing, safing, and monitoring of Neutron
• Develop automation for Rocket Lab’s marine and recovery system operations
• Collaborate with Neutron launch operations, vehicle design, guidance navigation & control, avionics, and fluids and other teams to prepare and perform key operations
• Identify and propose potential upgrades to marine and recovery hardware, software, and procedures – drive continuous improvement in these areas by interfacing regularly with various teams across Rocket Lab

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline
• 2+ years of experience in a test, automation, dynamic positioning, and/or integration engineering role.

• Experience working at a rocket launch/test facility and supporting launch/test campaigns
• Experience working on marine systems including dynamic positioning, automation, engine room and pump room operations, ballast control room, bridge operations
• Experience in control and monitoring of complex automated systems and risk assessment/reduction of the system
• Experience working on projects that involve the integration of fluid, electrical, mechanical, and software systems
• Experience testing and operating with or around hazardous systems (high pressure, high energy, hazardous gases and fluids, etc.)
• Familiarity with instrumentation and control components (pressure transducers, thermocouples, RTDs, strain gauges, accelerometers, flow meters, load cells, relays, solenoid, pneumatic valves)
• Strong work ethic and drive to succeed balanced with the ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Able to work in a fast paced, autonomously driven and demanding atmosphere
• Able to communicate clearly and accurately with a wide range of…