Ground Systems Engineer II – Instrumentation and 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.

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!

As a Ground Systems Engineer II – Instrumentation & Controls you will collaborate with electrical, mechanical, and software teams to support our launch operations, testing facilities, and mission‑critical infrastructure. This role is hands‑on and collaborative, requiring you to work closely with suppliers, technicians, and cross‑functional teams to deliver world‑class solutions. From concept to commissioning, you will play a key role in ensuring Rocket Lab’s Ground Systems are reliable, efficient, and ready to support our missions.

• Design launch pad and test site fixed assets including test stands, launch mounts, and gantries.
• Design launch vehicle support equipment including transportation fixtures, lifting apparatuses, and breakover fixtures.
• Design large mechanisms including umbilicals, hold downs, and strongbacks.
• 2D and 3D modelling through the use of CAD software, specifically NX.
• Perform system sizing and analysis by hand calculation and numerical methods.
• Produce risk assessments, system hazard analyses, and FMEAs.
• Component selection, development, and maintenance of BOMs.
• Interact with suppliers and internal teams.
• Perform failure investigations and root cause analysis.
• Support maintenance program development.

• Bachelor’s degree in software, mechatronics, electrical, or related engineering discipline.
• 2+ years of experience in software or control systems engineering, preferably in an aerospace, automotive, or industrial environment.
• Proficiency in text‑based/object‑oriented programming languages (Structured Text, Python, or C++).
• Experience using Git or an alternate software version control system.
• Experience with closed‑loop control design, implementation, and tuning.
• Experience with signal processing, filtering, and data conditioning techniques for noisy sensor environments.
• Knowledge of basic IT networking concepts and industrial communication protocols (UDP, TCP/IP, Modbus, Ether
  
  CAT).
• Basic familiarity with electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and troubleshooting techniques.

• Understanding of common sensors and instrumentation and how they work (pressure transducers, RTDs, thermocouples, etc.).
• Beckhoff/TwinCAT Platform Experience.
• National Instruments/LabVIEW Platform Experience.
• Fluid systems understanding and experience designing control systems for: pressure regulation and flow path management; filling and de‑tanking of pressure vessels; and valve actuation and control.
• Experience designing instrumentation, control, and automation…