Rocket Lab
Space
SpacecraftOperationsEngineer
Neural analysis suggests this role is
optimal for Mid+ candidates.
“Spacecraft Operations Engineer at Rocket Lab. Skills: Spacecraft operations, Automation, Software development, Mission success. Command and operate spacecraft. Develop ground software”
What You'll Achieve.
Shape automation; Shape software; Shape mission success
Industry & Context.
Complex engineering problems
Nationality checks, Eligibility for ITAR regulations
What They're Looking For.
Must Have
Bachelor's degree in aerospace, Systems, Software engineering or other engineering degree, 3+ years of experience in space mission design, satellite subsystems, ground systems, or spacecraft operations, Background in mission design, satellite subsystems, ground systems, or spacecraft operations/command, Familiarity with Linux systems, Software development experience such as Python, C++, or other high-level languages, Understanding of spacecraft systems (ADCS, power, comms, C&DH, thermal), Solid grasp of orbital mechanics, space environment, and dynamics, Proven ability to thrive in fast-paced, multi-priority environments
Nice to Have
Postgraduate degree in Aerospace Engineering, Experience in spacecraft ops, satellite design, or ground systems, Familiarity with modern dev tools (Git, CI/CD, cloud), Hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) testing experience
What You'll Do.
Command and operate spacecraft
Develop ground software
Develop flight software
Build operational scripts
Build telemetry configurations
Build FDIR configurations
Lead validation using simulation tools
Support spacecraft through integration
Support spacecraft through testing
Support spacecraft through launch
Support spacecraft through on-orbit life
Drive continuous improvement across systems
Drive continuous improvement across processes
Drive continuous improvement across performance
How You'll Work.
Team & Collaboration
Propulsion engineers; Flight software engineers; GNC engineers; Mission design engineers
Communication Scope
Clear communication
Full Job Description
ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U. S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope. SPACE SYSTEMS Rocket Lab’s Space Systems team is responsible for every satellite and satellite component made by Rocket Lab: from complete satellites destined for missions to the Moon and Mars, to the individual components and subsystems that make up a satellite like solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels and star trackers, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team is made up of engineers, technicians, and designers who design, create, and put together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defence sectors, or who build and assemble satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions. SPACECRAFT OPERATIONS ENGINEER Based at our Auckland Production Complex, a Spacecraft Operations Engineer will take ownership of spacecraft operations across a diverse and growing fleet - from LEO constellations to deep space exploration missions. You won’t just operate spacecraft - you’ll design how
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