Avionics Design Engineer I - Neutron

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space enterprise offering responsive launch services, full spacecraft design and manufacturing, along with payloads and satellite components. The company aims to make space access more attainable, supporting critical missions such as scientific inquiry, Earth monitoring, fighting climate change, national security, and pioneering technology demonstrations. Their Electron rocket ranks as the second-most launched U.S. rocket annually, deploying over 230 satellites. Currently, they are developing Neutron, a medium-lift reusable launch vehicle intended for deploying larger satellite constellations, and also design spacecraft for NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components for the James Webb Space Telescope.

Role in Neutron Program

The Neutron team is charged with creating the new large rocket, Neutron, including its launch and test facilities, from design through testing and operational rollout. The avionics hardware team invites engineers to take a lead role in developing mission-critical avionics elements for this next-generation launch vehicle.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage avionics components and subsystems with full responsibility for respective areas
• Conduct end-to-end electronic component development: requirements definition, prototyping, debugging, schematics, PCB layout, board validation, integration, testing, and production implementation
• Design and validate digital, power, and analog sensing circuitry tailored for rigorous aerospace conditions
• Plan and execute comprehensive test campaigns covering avionics modules, including computing units and high-voltage systems, ensuring compliance with all specifications
• Develop automation tools using Python and C/C++ for interfacing with test units, automated equipment, and production ERP systems
• Perform critical assessments such as FMECA, derating, root cause analysis for component failures, along with risk evaluations and mitigation planning
• Work collaboratively across teams throughout the company to drive program success
• Review and endorse engineering changes, schematics, PCB designs, testing protocols, and technical documentation
• Create and maintain documentation on testing procedures, system maintenance, calibration, and provide training and support as needed

Candidate Profile

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field
• Minimum of one year experience in electronics hardware development from concept to production
• In-depth knowledge of instrumentation, sensor interfaces, and power systems, inclusive of serial communication devices, switch topologies, accelerometers, thermocouples, RTDs, and 4-20mA sensors
• Practical skills with laboratory equipment such as power supplies, oscilloscopes, electronic loads, digital multimeters, function generators, and calibrators
• Effective communication abilities both oral and written
• Self-driven ownership attitude to independently manage and complete tasks and projects
• Strong analytical problem-solving skills to improve cost, quality, reliability, and delivery performance
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of environmental test methods including vibration, shock, thermal, EMI/EMC, and thermal vacuum (TVAC) testing
• Experience using Altium Designer software
• Programming proficiency in Python, C, and C++

Additional Information

The role involves working in an environment committed to innovation, teamwork, resilience, and meeting challenging deadlines. Rocket Lab encourages a supportive culture valuing contributions at all levels. Equal employment opportunity is maintained without discrimination based on protected characteristics. For candidates aiming to work in the U.S., compliance with government export control regulations (ITAR) is mandatory, which requires appropriate citizenship or authorization. For New Zealand applicants, security background and nationality checks are performed due to export regulations, with citizenship eligibility requirements accordingly.