About the Job
While other companies talk about it, we do it!
Rocket Lab’s Electron team is responsible for building, testing, and launching our Electron rocket across our launch sites and test facilities in the United States and New Zealand. Electron is one of the world’s most frequently-launched rockets, and our team behind its success are diligent, move fast, and have each ...
In this role you will be responsible for:
Key Responsibilities
Mission design including trajectory design and optimization, auto-sequence planning & design, Monte Carlo analysis, configuration management, and any other mission design, launch operations, verification and validation tasks as required.
GNC system development including writing GNC flight software, developing algorithms and models, analyzing GNC hardware performance, analyzing flight data.
Working with the GNC Team Lead to support and mentor the team.
Trajectory Optimization & Mission Design
Assisting with trajectory optimization/design for launch vehicle orbital missions and suborbital missions (HASTE).
Assisting with auto sequence design (maneuvers, telemetry, ground station contacts), implementation and verification for flight, stack tests and wet dress rehearsals
Analysis and missionization of optimized 3DOF trajectories for implementation in 6DOF and flight scenarios
Monte-Carlo analysis pre-flight, launch day and post-flight analysis
Design and verification of spacecraft separation sequences and dynamics
GNC R&D / Support
Assisting with all areas of GNC development and maintenance for Electron, Neutron and/or other programs including:
Core GNC R&D (Guidance, Navigation, and Control)
Vehicle parameter modelling / prediction and/or configuration control
6DOF simulator design and development
Launch and HITL operations
Health and Safety
Ensure health and safety policies and standard operating procedures are followed
Correct PPE is worn in designated areas
Near misses and incidents are reported promptly
Required Skills & Abilities
Bachelor, Masters or Ph.D. in Electronics, Software, Mechatronics or Aerospace Engineering
5+ years’ experience developing in C/C++ including some embedded or high reliability development
5+ years’ experience developing in Python or MATLAB
The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
Excellent communication skills with the ability to build strong working relationships
Experience with optimization for launch-vehicle or spacecraft missions
Experience with GMAT, STK, ASTOS and/or POST
Publications in the fields of guidance, navigation, control or other adjacent fields
