Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer–Avionics Rocket Lab · Wallops , Virginia, VA

Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer – Avionics

Rocket Lab

Wallops Island, Virginia, VA Full Time Engineering Posted 08/13/2026

Description:

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.

• 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

• 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 elevate/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

• Experience working in Mission Control…