Lead Test & Launch Operations 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

• 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 insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.

Base Pay Range (VA Only)

$110,000-$140,000 USD

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.