Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer - Avionics

Location: Wallops Island

Lead Test & Launch Engineer - Avionics

Based out of Rocket Lab s Launch Complex 3 in Wallops Island, VA, the Lead Test and Launch Operations Engineer are 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.

WHAT YOU LL GET TO DO:

Lead and manage a team of Engineers responsible for avionics hardware, software, and ground station systems for Electron and Neutron launch operations
Work in Mission Control as the console operator 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
Responsible for leading teams of engineers, managing operational projects, and ensuring the overall readiness and capability of their discipline area.
Develop training programs, conduct operational readiness reviews, and serve as the primary technical authority for their systems during mission-critical operations
YOU LL BRING THESE

QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor s degree in electrical, computer, aerospace, software engineering, or other technical degree
5-8+ years of engineering experience with avionics systems, RF systems, telemetry, flight software, or launch vehicle operations

Demonstrated proficiency with avionics hardware, flight software systems, and ground station operations

Experience with high-reliability software systems and safety-critical aerospace software

Experience with RF systems, ground stations, telemetry systems, or avionics networking infrastructure
Demonstrated leadership competencies, especially change management, conflict resolution, knowing when to escalate/request help, and effectively managing a team
Understanding of operations involving complex software and hardware systems
Experience developing operational procedures, test plans, and conducting mission simulations
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

Experience working in Mission Control or similar operational control environments
Aviation/Aircrew/Flight Test may be considered an alternative

Experience with launch vehicle or spacecraft avionics including integration, testing, launch, or mission operations

Experience with flight software development, verification, or operations

Experience with ground station operations, RF link analysis, or telemetry processing
Track record of leading teams

Experience with real-time embedded systems or flight control software
Knowledge of DO-178C or other software certification standards

Experience with data acquisition systems and real-time monitoring systems
Experience developing HMIs for operational monitoring and control systems

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the state of Virginia s pay transparency requirements. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience.

Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab s compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab s Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits also include medical, dental, and vision…