Senior Propulsion Automation & Test Systems Engineer

Responsibilities

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• FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:
• To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket La

Benefits

Additional Information

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. SENIOR PROPULSION ENGINEER - AUTOMATION AND TEST SYSTEMS As a Senior Propulsion Engineer - Automation and Test Systems based at Rocket Lab's site in the Propulsion Test Complex (PTC), you will have the opportunity to support the testing, validation, and continuous improvement of propulsion test stands that directly enable launch vehicle readiness and flight qualification. In this role you will work on troubleshooting live test systems and designing, commissioning, and upgrading automated control and data systems that ensure safe, reliable, and efficient propulsion testing. To be successful in this role, you must be highly self-directed, hands-on, and comfortable operating independently in a remote facility as the on-site subject matter expert for complex automated systems. Join a driven team that's tackling challenging projects, delivering on exciting missions, and making an impact on the future of space. WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO: Act as the primary on-site expert for propulsion test stand automation and control systems at PTC Provide day-to-day troubleshooting and operational support for live propulsion test infrastructure Design, commission, and implement upgrades to test systems and automation architecture Develop and maintain test sequences, data acquisition, and control systems using National Instruments platforms Integrate PLC, software, and hardware systems to improve reliability and test throughput Work closely with remote engineering teams and Ground Systems Engineering (GSE) to resolve complex issues Identify bottlenecks in test operations and implement continuous improvement solutions Support integration of test systems with enterprise tools, logging systems, and data pipelines YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Software, Electrical, Mechatronics, or equivalent hands-on discipline) Strong experience with National Instruments systems (LabVIEW, test sequencing, troubleshooting) Experience with industrial automation systems, including PLC-based control systems (e.g. Beckhoff or similar) Proficiency in at least one programming language (Python, C, or C#) and familiarity with engineering toolchains Hands-on experience with instrumentation, sensors, and electromechanical systems in industrial environments Proven ability to independently troubleshoot and resolve complex systems issues in live operations THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: Experience in fluid systems or fluid-powered test environments Background in manufacturing automation or production line commissioning Experience with SQL, data acquisition systems, or industrial data pipelines Familiarity with TestStand, FlexLogger, or other National Instruments ecosystem tools Experience integrating operational systems with ERP/EIS platforms Exposure to high-reliability or safety-critical test environments Experience working in remote or autonomous engineering site environments If you're excited by complex systems, hands-on engineering, and taking ownership of mission-critical test infrastructure that directly enables spaceflight, we'd love to hear from you.

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