Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer-Avionics

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.

Neutron is a medium‑lift launch vehicle being developed by Rocket Lab. The rocket can deliver the mega‑constellations of tomorrow, enable interplanetary payloads, and support human spaceflight. As a reusable platform, Neutron will deliver a very cost‑effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab's proven history with Electron – the second most launched rocket worldwide in 2024. Join an incredible team in a fast‑paced and rewarding environment.

HASTE (Hypersonic Accelerator Suborbital Test Electron) is a specialized variant of Rocket Lab's proven Electron launch vehicle, designed to support hypersonic flight testing and research missions. Operating from Rocket Lab's Launch Complex 3 at Wallops Island, Virginia, Electron HASTE provides a unique capability to deliver hypersonic test vehicles to the required flight conditions for cutting‑edge aerodynamic and propulsion research. The program represents an exciting evolution of the Electron platform, supporting critical national defense and aerospace research objectives while maintaining Rocket Lab's commitment to rapid, reliable launch operations.

Based out of Rocket Lab's Launch Complex 3 in Wallops Island, VA, the Lead Test and Launch Operations Engineer is responsible for the end‑to‑end testing, launch, and mission operations of Electron and Neutron launch vehicles, including the configuration and operation of related facilities and infrastructure. As a senior operational leader, you will oversee teams of engineers, manage operational projects, and ensure the readiness and capability of your discipline area.

You will develop training programs, conduct operational readiness reviews, and serve as the primary technical authority for your systems during mission‑critical operations. In this role, you will coordinate across disciplines to resolve complex issues, drive process improvements, and ensure operational procedures and infrastructure scale to support an increasing launch cadence. The Lead Test and Launch Operations Engineer balances time between Mission Control operations, team leadership, and strategic planning for future operational capabilities.

• Lead and manage a team of engineers responsible for avionics hardware, software, and ground station systems for Electron and Neutron launch operations.
• Operate the Mission Control console for avionics systems during test campaigns, rehearsals, and launch operations.
• Develop and maintain Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for avionics systems, flight software, and ground networks.
• Create and continuously improve test plans, operational procedures, and checklists for avionics operations.
• Design and implement Human‑Machine Interfaces (HMIs) for avionics monitoring, telemetry display, and ground station control.
• Lead operational readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals for avionics operations.
• Perform real‑time troubleshooting and data analysis during live operations to resolve avionics and communication system anomalies.
• Conduct post‑test and post‑launch data analysis to identify trends, anomalies, and improvement opportunities.
• Develop comprehensive training programs and qualification matrices to ensure operators are prepared for console positions.
• Lead structured root‑cause analysis and corrective action programs for avionics anomalies.
• Drive the development of Neutron avionics operations procedures and testing campaigns.
• Ensure overall readiness and capability of your discipline area.
• Serve as the primary technical authority for your systems during mission‑critical operations.

• Bachelor's degree in…