Ground Systems Engineer II​/Senior - Automation Controls

Ground Systems Engineer II/Senior - Automation Controls

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more. 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. We are working to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment.

GROUND SYSTEMS ENGINEER, AUTOMATION CONTROLS

Based out of Rocket Lab's Stennis Test Complex in Stennis Space Center, MS, the GSE Automation Controls is responsible for commissioning, testing, updating, and troubleshooting ground support software systems as well as engine and test site software interfaces.

The role directly supports Neutron engine test campaigns in close collaboration with operators, the engine development team, software development teams, and the ground systems instrumentation & control teams.

Note: This position can be hired as a Level II, Senior Engineer I, or Senior Engineer II level.

What You’ll Get To Do

• Support propulsion engineers and test operators to troubleshoot software issues across all systems at the test site.
• Collaborate with IT, Ground Systems Instrumentation & Control, and terrestrial and vehicle software teams to deploy and commission test site software systems.
• Support the certification of test pad systems by producing documentation, operator manuals, maintenance procedures, test procedures, and work instructions.
• Develop and execute test plans to validate the performance of ground software systems and engine interfaces.
• Perform post-test data analysis and reporting.
• Be the point of contact for any software-related requests on site, implementing changes yourself or escalating to development teams as required.
• Support test operators remotely or in person during installation, commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting activities.
• Develop and troubleshoot PLC programs for automating test operations.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A LEVEL II ENGINEER:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or equivalent qualification.
• 2+ years of demonstrated experience developing software.
• Hands-on experience with data processing systems.
• Proficiency in Git and working with issue trackers.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR ENGINEER I:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or equivalent qualification.
• 5+ years of demonstrated experience developing software.
• Hands-on experience with data processing systems.
• Proficiency in Git and working with issue trackers.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR ENGINEER II:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or equivalent qualification.
• 8+ years of demonstrated experience developing software.
• Hands-on experience with data processing systems.
• Proficiency in Git and working with issue trackers.

These Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have

• Experience with programming languages such as C++, Python, Go, C#, XAML.
• Experience with object-oriented programming.
• Requirements-driven software design.
• Experience with Beckhoff TwinCAT and IEC 61131-3 PLC languages.
• Experience with Kubernetes & Docker.
• Proficiency working with the Linux command line and Team City.

Additional Requirements

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate 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 work extended hours or weekends as needed for mission-critical deadlines.
• Position requires approximately 10% domestic travel to support test and launch campaigns.

Equal Employment Opportunities

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.