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Test and Launch Engineer II - Vehicle

Rocket Lab
Wallops Island, VA Full Time USD 87,000 - 110,000 p.a. Sep 17, 2026

About the Job

Neutron is a medium-lift launch vehicle being developed by Rocket Lab, a publicly traded end-to-end space company. The rocket can deliver the mega constellations of tomorrow, enable interplanetary payloads, and support human spaceflight. As a reusable platform, Neutron will deliver a very cost-effective and reliable...

HASTE (Hypersonic Accelerator Suborbital Test Electron) is a specialized variant of Rocket Lab's proven Electron launch vehicle, designed to support hypersonic flight testing and research missions. Operating from Rocket Lab's Launch Complex 2 at Wallops Island, Virginia, Electron HASTE provides a unique capability t...

The Test and Launch Operations team at Rocket Lab manages all aspects of testing, launching, and mission operations for the Electron and Neutron rockets, including facility and equipment oversight. Test and Launch Engineers serve as mission controllers, developing procedures, conducting real-time operations, analyzi...

Key Responsibilities

Work in Mission Control as a console operator for vehicle systems during test campaigns, rehearsals, and launch operations
Develop and maintain test plans, operational procedures, and checklists for vehicle operations
Develop and improve Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) for vehicle systems monitoring and control
Participate in operational readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals
Perform real-time troubleshooting and data analysis during live operations to resolve vehicle system issues
Conduct post-test and post-launch data analysis to support continuous improvement efforts
Develop, integrate, and test mechanical and propulsion systems relating to Electron and Neutron launch vehicles
Oversee the configuration and checkout of launch vehicle systems including propulsion units, fluid systems, and mechanical assemblies
Lead and manage testing projects for launch vehicle systems, including static testing and integrated stage hot fire testing
Mentor and train other operators within the Test and Launch Operations team on launch vehicle mechanical and propulsion systems
Author, review and carry out operations procedures for vehicle systems
Support the development of Neutron vehicle operations procedures
Receive instructional training and become qualified as a launch operator on Electron launch vehicles

Required Skills & Abilities

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (preferably Aerospace, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering)
2+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations, with focus on mechanical systems, propulsion systems, or fluid systems
4+ years of experience will be considered in lieu of a degree
3+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations
Experience working in Mission Control or similar operational control environments
Aviation/Aircrew/Flight Test may be considered an alternative
Experience with launch vehicles or spacecraft including integration, testing, launch, or mission operations
Experience with integrated stage thermal/fluid systems design/test/operations, and/or experience in a propulsion test/operations environment
Solid understanding and experience working with fluid/cryogenic/pressurized/hazardous systems
Good understanding/experience of real-time hazardous operations
Experience with rocket propulsion systems or engine testing
Experience with spacecraft or crew-rated vehicle systems
Knowledge of high-pressure gas systems and propellant handling
Experience developing operational procedures, test plans, or HMIs
Background in real-time data analysis and troubleshooting

Qualifications

Experience: 2 years experience
Education: Bachelor

Work Authorization

Citizenship of AU / NZ / EU / NATO

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