Spacecraft Operations Engineer

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space company that provides responsive launch services along with spacecraft design, manufacturing, payloads, and satellite components, aiming to facilitate space accessibility. The company supports critical space missions for scientific research, Earth monitoring, climate change mitigation, national security, and innovative technology demonstrations. Its Electron rocket ranks as the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually, having deployed over 230 satellites, while developing Neutron, a reusable medium-lift launch vehicle for larger satellite constellations.

Rocket Lab's Space Systems division handles the design and production of a variety of satellites and components, including devices selected for NASA missions to the Moon and Mars, and assemblies used in the James Webb Space Telescope.

The Role: Spacecraft Operations Engineer

Located at the Auckland Production Complex, the engineer will oversee spacecraft operations across a growing fleet spanning Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellations to deep space exploration. Responsibilities include not just spacecraft operation but also designing operational procedures, automations, software, and mission strategies from inception to re-entry.

The role requires collaboration with multidisciplinary engineering teams in propulsion, flight software, guidance, navigation and control, and mission design, rapidly advancing ambitious projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Command and operate spacecraft prioritizing automation.
• Create, develop, and test ground and flight software supporting long-term missions.
• Develop robust operational scripts and telemetry Fault Detection, Isolation, and Recovery (FDIR) configurations.
• Lead validation efforts employing simulation tools such as Hardware-In-The-Loop (HITL) and flatsat.
• Support spacecraft through stages including integration, testing, launch, and on-orbit lifecycle.
• Continuously improve systems, processes, and performance metrics.

Essential Qualifications and Attributes

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Systems, Software Engineering, or related engineering field.
• Minimum three years’ experience in domains such as space mission design, satellite subsystems, ground systems, or spacecraft operations.
• Expertise in spacecraft systems including Attitude Determination and Control System (ADCS), power, communications, Command and Data Handling (C&DH), and thermal systems.
• Familiarity with Linux operating systems and software development using Python, C++, or other high-level programming languages.
• Strong knowledge of orbital mechanics, space environment, and spacecraft dynamics.
• Proven capability to excel in demanding, fast-paced environments managing multiple priorities.

Preferred qualifications include a postgraduate degree in Aerospace Engineering, direct experience with spacecraft operations or satellite design, familiarity with modern development tools like Git, Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD), cloud technologies, and hands-on experience with HITL testing.

Work Culture and Expectations

Working at Rocket Lab involves a dynamic environment that demands innovation, teamwork, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to ambitious goals. The team supports each other with humility, embraces challenges, and prioritizes delivery despite tight deadlines.

Additional Information: Regulatory Compliance and Equal Opportunity

For candidates seeking roles in the U.S., employment is subject to U.S. Government space technology export regulations (e.g., ITAR), requiring U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residency, or appropriate authorizations. In New Zealand, employment offers are contingent upon background and nationality checks to comply with U.S. export controls. Eligibility for this position in New Zealand requires citizenship from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the EU, NATO countries, or similar, with restrictions on certain dual citizenships.

Rocket Lab is an equal opportunity employer committed to prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics.