ABOUT ROCKET LAB
Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.
Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!
ABOUT ENGINEERING AT ROCKET LAB:
Engineering is at the heart of Rocket Lab. Our engineering team has a proven track record of designing and developing world-class rockets and spacecraft that are changing the way we access and use space. You’ll work alongside driven, talented engineers from varied backgrounds and experience levels, all committed to the same mission. Our engineering team members span design, analysis, prototyping, testing, manufacturing, assembly and integration, quality control, engineering documentation, and more.
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:
The Avionics R&D Team covers the Electrical and Electronic engineering discipline, and are responsible for the design, test, and integration of the electrical systems and electronics that form the backbone of our Electron and Neutron launch vehicles, Photon satellite bus, spacecraft components, as well as ground support and test equipment.
The Team Lead - Electron Avionics Development is the subject matter expert and technical lead for avionics testing and automation, and team lead for the avionics test team. This role is comparable to an electrical product development role in other high-reliability industries. This role will have overall responsibility for the testing, qualification, and technical architecture of automated testing systems for Rocket Lab’s avionics components, in conjunction with team management, planning, and personnel management of direct reports.
This includes but is not limited to flight computers, power electronic systems, high-voltage components, FPGAs, RF systems, and components used in guidance, navigation, and control.
Our fundamental goal is to ensure our payloads reach orbit on time, every time. Your role leading the Avionics Test team is critical to this mission, and the main line of defence to ensure the quality and reliability in a fast-paced production environment.
KEY TECHNICAL SKILLS:
- Minimum 8+ years in Avionics, Electrical Engineering or similar field.
- High proficiency in multiple areas of electronic testing, including analog, high-speed digital, and power electronics.
- High proficiency in environmental testing such as vibration, shock, thermal, burn-in, and TVAC.
- Extensive understanding of instrumentation, interfaces, and sensors.
- Programming experience in Python, LabView, or C/C++. Good understanding of software development processes.
- Understanding of electrical schematics and electronics manufacturing to analyze and improve test coverage.
- Strong troubleshooting skills and an aptitude for technical guidance and mentoring of junior engineers.
- Demonstrated engineering judgement, looking at all available options to solve a problem.
KEY COMMUNICATION SKILLS:
- The ability to communicate technical information in clear and concise ways to inform decision making.
- The ability to generate and communicate business cases for capital investment, including test equipment or tools, or entering relationships with vendors or contractors.
- The ability to communicate technical strategy and direction, creating engagement and motivation in the team.
KEY TEAM MANAGEMENT SKILLS:
- Demonstrated ability to function as a technical contributor while managing a small team.
- Ability to mentor junior engineers.
- Effective at collaborating across teams and departments.
If you meet 50% of the requirements in this job ad – we want to hear from you with a variety of openings currentl - Apply Now!
WHAT TO EXPECT
We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.
Important information:
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.
Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Biow at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:
For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.
Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.
