Spacecraft Operations Engineer

Job Description

Rocket Lab is seeking a Spacecraft Operations Engineer to join their growing team in Auckland, New Zealand. This role supports the global Spacecraft Operations team, which is responsible for maintaining the health and safety of Rocket Lab’s expanding fleet of spacecraft and ensuring mission objectives and SLAs are met. The engineer will collaborate with talented individuals, pushing boundaries and reshaping what is possible in space systems.

The role involves diverse missions, operating on Rocket Lab's PHOTON satellite bus for customers with various payloads and roles, from LEO on-orbit manufacturing to deep space missions. The Spacecraft Operations team collaborates closely with spacecraft design, AIT, flight software, Propulsion, GNC, mission design, and SW development teams to enhance ground and satellite-based capabilities.

Rocket Lab offers the opportunity to work on innovative technology, relocation support, an employee stock purchase program, access to experts for career development, and a vibrant team culture.

What this role involves:

• Supporting the global Spacecraft Operations team.
• Maintaining the health and safety of Rocket Lab’s spacecraft.
• Ensuring mission objectives and SLAs are met.
• Collaborating with related teams to improve capabilities.

Requirements:

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering with relevant experience.
• Direct experience in space mission design, satellite subsystems, or spacecraft operations.
• Understanding of the space environment and orbital mechanics.
• Software development skills (Python/C/C++).
• Understanding of spacecraft subsystems.

What Rocket Lab offers:

• The opportunity to work on innovative and ground-breaking technology
• Relocation support and visa sponsorship
• An employee stock purchase program
• Access to world leading experts to develop your career
• Unlimited barista coffee, fruit, and snacks
• Rocket Lab merchandise - T-shirts, mission patches etc.
• Discounted health insurance with Southern Cross
• Additional parental leave entitlements
• A vibrant team culture with social activities throughout the year