Avionics Engineer II – Test

Role overview

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company focused on making space more accessible through launch services, spacecraft design, manufacturing, payloads, and satellite components. Its work supports scientific exploration, Earth observation, climate-focused missions, national security, and technology demonstrations. The company’s Electron rocket is now the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket each year and has placed more than 230 satellites into orbit. Rocket Lab is also developing Neutron, a reusable medium-lift launch vehicle for larger constellation deployments.

The Space Systems division designs and builds satellites and satellite hardware ranging from full spacecraft for lunar and Mars missions to sub-systems such as solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels, star trackers, separation systems, radios, and related components for commercial, government, and defense customers.

As part of the Ion Propulsion Team, this position sits at the leading edge of avionics hardware development. The role is centered on supporting the creation, testing, and deployment of avionics systems that operate in orbit, including power electronics, high-voltage hardware, and other high-reliability control electronics. A strong focus is placed on quality, reliability, and production scalability in a fast-moving development setting.

Key responsibilities

• Design, plan, and run test programs for avionics parts and subsystems, including power electronics and high-voltage hardware.
• Work with design teams and customers to define, document, and refine test needs.
• Carry out practical troubleshooting during hardware bring-up, integration, and operational activities.
• Lead failure analysis work, identify root causes, and put corrective measures in place.
• Create and validate analytical as well as empirical models for electrical systems.
• Build automated test setups and data analysis tools.
• Develop automation code in Python and C/C++ for test systems and data capture.
• Assist in the design of electronic circuits and assemblies used for automated testing.
• Evaluate system-level test results from integrated testing and launch campaigns.
• Support production technicians and manufacturing engineers with technical guidance.
• Produce and maintain procedures, technical records, and training content.
• Follow all health and safety requirements and procedures.

Required qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• At least 4 years of experience in hardware development or electronics test engineering.
• Practical use of lab instrumentation and sensors such as oscilloscopes, power supplies, accelerometers, thermocouples, RTDs, and 4-20mA devices.
• Background in aerospace environmental tests such as vibration, shock, thermal, and TVAC.
• Strong debugging and problem-solving ability for electronic hardware.
• Comfort working with electrical test equipment and data acquisition systems.
• Ability to perform well in a fast-paced environment that requires both independence and teamwork.
• Clear communication and strong documentation skills.

Nice to have

• Experience taking hardware from concept through production.
• At least 3 years of programming experience with Python, C, C++, or Matlab.
• Exposure to FPGA-based systems and high-voltage electronics.
• Working knowledge of PCB design tools such as Altium, Eagle, or KiCAD.
• Experience creating automated test equipment and analysis tools.
• Understanding of root-cause methods such as FMECA.
• Prior work in aerospace or space systems.
• Experience supporting manufacturing lines and training technicians.

Additional information

Rocket Lab describes its culture as demanding, collaborative, and mission-driven. The team works with urgency, embraces hard problems, and values teamwork, accountability, and execution under pressure.

Important hiring and compliance information

For candidates applying to U.S. offices: Due to export-control requirements under ITAR, employees must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, asylees, or otherwise able to obtain the necessary authorization from the U.S. Department of State and/or Department of Commerce. The company also states that it is an equal opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination or harassment on any protected basis. Candidates who need a reasonable accommodation for the U.S. application or interview process may contact the designated support contact provided by the employer.

For candidates applying to New Zealand offices: Background screening will be completed before any offer is made, including nationality verification because access to certain equipment and data is restricted under U.S. ITAR rules. The role may be unavailable to candidates who do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a NATO country, or who hold certain disallowed dual citizenship or nationality combinations.