Integrated Operations Engineer II

About the Company

Rocket Lab is a fully integrated space business that provides launch services, spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite parts, and related solutions, all aimed at expanding access to space. Its rockets and satellites support a wide range of important missions around the world, including scientific research, Earth observation, climate-focused missions, national security, and technology demonstrations.

The company’s Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket each year and has placed more than 230 satellites into orbit. In parallel, Rocket Lab is developing Neutron, a reusable medium-lift launch vehicle built for larger constellation deployments. Its Space Systems division designs and manufactures satellites, payloads, and components, including hardware selected for NASA missions to the Moon and Mars as well as elements used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

Role Overview

The Integrated Operations function supports Electron launch vehicle and Photon testing and operations across the full mission lifecycle, from stack testing and pre-launch preparation through launch, on-orbit operations, and mission disposal. These activities can take place remotely or at facilities such as propulsion test sites, the Auckland Mission Control Centre, launch sites in Mahia and Wallops Island, or other assigned locations.

This intermediate engineering role requires a working grasp of several testing and operations disciplines. The engineer is expected to be capable in one or more operational areas and to work independently during test and mission activities. The position also contributes to process improvement, tooling, and integration projects, with ownership of specific workstreams.

Responsibilities

• Plan for, support, and carry out testing, launch preparation, and launch-day operations.
• Help define the requirements for tests and operational activities.
• Create, align, and run plans and procedures that keep testing, operations, and flight activities safe, efficient, and effective.
• Work on-console during test and operational events while maintaining situational awareness and clear real-time communication.
• Diagnose and resolve issues as they arise during live operations.
• Carry out failure reviews and root-cause analyses to help prevent repeat problems.
• Review and analyse data after tests and flights.
• Look for ways to continuously simplify and improve integration, test, and operations workflows.
• Be prepared for domestic and international travel as required.

Requirements

• A degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or an equivalent qualification.
• 1 to 2 years of experience in engineering design, testing, and/or operations.
• Hands-on experience or strong knowledge of mechanical systems such as structures, mechanisms, propulsion, pressurisation, hydraulics, pneumatics, HVAC, instrumentation, or command and control.
• Ability to stay aware of the overall situation and communicate effectively in real time during complex operations.
• A precise, detail-oriented work style.
• Comfort working under pressure and to demanding deadlines.
• Self-motivated, driven, and positively energetic.
• Preferred: 2 or more years of relevant experience.
• Preferred: experience in safety-critical or mission-critical, high-pressure environments.
• Preferred: background in launch vehicle or spacecraft integration, testing, launch, or console-based mission operations.

Eligibility and Additional Information

For applicants working from New Zealand offices, background checks will be completed before any offer is made. These checks include nationality screening because the role requires eligibility to access equipment and data controlled under the United States International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).

Under these regulations, candidates may be ineligible if they do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a NATO country, or if they have an ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. Separate U.S.-office eligibility rules also apply under ITAR, including citizenship, permanent residency, refugee, or asylum status, or the ability to obtain the required U.S. government authorisations.

Rocket Lab states that it is an equal opportunity employer and does not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any protected characteristic. It also notes that applicants needing a reasonable accommodation for a U.S. application or interview process should contact the designated support contact provided in the original notice.

What It Takes to Succeed Here

The team operates in a demanding environment that values resilience, teamwork, accountability, and practical problem-solving. Success in this role depends on the ability to perform under pressure, work to tight timelines, and focus on delivery while supporting teammates and keeping ego out of the process.

What We Are Looking For

This role suits someone who enjoys hands-on engineering, fast-moving operational work, and contributing to missions that involve significant technical and procedural complexity.