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# Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer - Vehicle in 23337

- **Company:** Energy Jobline
- **Location:** Accomack County, VA, United States
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Salary:** $110,000.0 - $145,000.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Testing (Software), Health Information Management, Openstack Neutron
- **Published:** September 4, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.energyjobline.com/job/lead-test-launch-operations-engineer-vehicle-23337-31460986

## About the Role

Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, chemical engineering, or other technical degree
\n 5-8+ years of engineering experience with propulsion systems, aviation, launch vehicles, or spacecraft
\n Aviation/aircrew may be considered an alternative to this
\n Demonstrated proficiency with rocket propulsion systems and fluid/thermal systems
\n Experience with high-reliability aerospace systems design, test, or operations
\n Experience with vehicle tanking, propellant handling, and pressurized fluid systems
\n Demonstrated leadership competencies, especially change management, conflict resolution, knowing when to escalate/request help, and effectively managing a team
\n Understanding of hazardous operations and safety protocols for propulsion systems
\n Experience developing operational procedures, test plans, and conducting mission simulations
\n THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

\n

Experience working in Mission Control or similar operational control environments
\n Aviation/Aircrew/Flight Test may be considered an alternative
\n Experience with launch vehicle operations including integration, testing, launch, or mission operations
\n Experience with integrated stage thermal/fluid systems design/test/operations, and/or experience in a propulsion test/operations environment
\n Experience with spacecraft or crew-rated vehicle systems
\n Track record of leading teams
\n Experience leading hot fire testing programs or static test campaigns
\n Solid understanding of cryogenic systems and high-pressure gas systems
\n Experience developing HMIs for operational monitoring and control systems
\n ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

## Description

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


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