Test Operations Engineer II​/Senior Test Operations Engineer

Test Operations Engineer

Based out of Rocket Lab's Test Facility at Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, the Test Operations Engineer is responsible for activation and operations of critical test facilities to support the Archimedes rocket engine and the Neutron launch vehicle. You will collaborate closely with Engine and Vehicle Propulsion groups to develop test procedures and test sequencing requirements. You will be responsible for configuration, checkout, and operations of the engine hot fire facility and associated support infrastructure.

Your work will require technical discipline and expertise in mechanical systems as well as monitoring instrumentation and command and control systems. You must be responsible for the safety of yourself and those around you. You may be asked to directly support engine hardware and engine checkout operations, becoming skilled in Test Operations roles and working independently to support the overall test facility design, build, activation, and engine test efforts.

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

• Perform facility test operations on console while maintaining situational awareness and constant communication with others involved in the test activity
• Lead and be part of a team of technicians and engineers who set up and operate the test facility
• Conduct test operations safely and ensure the quality and integrity of data are maintained
• Perform troubleshooting to resolve facility and test operations issues
• Work to plan and optimize checkout, processing, testing, and post‑test operations
• Collaborate with Archimedes engine and Neutron vehicle design teams to prepare and perform tests on key engine and stage hardware
• Work hand in hand with the GSE teams to complete design, build, installation, and checkout of facility systems
  • This includes helping maintain cleanliness and integrity of systems, ensuring proper checkouts are performed, and data acquisition systems are properly calibrated

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or electrical engineering; or other technical discipline
• 2+ years experience operating rocket engine test stands or launch complexes

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or electrical engineering; or other technical discipline
• 5+ years experience operating rocket engine test stands or launch complexes

• Broad general background in your engineering discipline with ability to design systems and develop computer tools for automation or analysis
• Experience operating facilities for liquid oxygen and liquid methane
• Background that demonstrates personal development which might include pilot training, scouting, sports teams especially any leadership roles in those activities
• Working knowledge of computer networks and IT infrastructure
• 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 and being self‑actualized and self‑guided

• Ability to travel and communicate outside of work hours
• Must be able to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed
• 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

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. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.