Senior Spacecraft Propulsion Test Engineer II

Own the full testing lifecycle, including test planning, setup, instrumentation, execution, data analysis, and reporting

Apply a systems engineering mindset to testing activities, integrating with broader engineering efforts

8+ years of experience in rocket engine test engineering, or equivalent high-performance field

Prior work on engine test facilities and experience hot fire testing liquid rocket engines, including instrumentation, test operation, and data analysis

Expertise in instrumentation, automation, and data acquisition using either National Instruments or Beckhoff PLC

$132,000

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$198,000 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

This requires an understanding of the fundamentals of technical project management and systems engineering to manage interfaces and deliverables across all teams involved

Excellent documentation and organization of engineering information, including test plans, test reports, facility configuration management, etc.

Track record of successfully investigating and resolving the root causes of anomalies during testing or flight

Strong understanding of standard aerospace testing including random vibration, shock, thermal cycle, thermal vacuum, helium leak, accelerated life, and margined performance testing

Experience with getting government approvals through NEPA, permitting, or similar processes for construction, industrial, or test operations

Capabilities using Python for data manipulation and post-processing

Provide guidance, training, mentorship, and technical leadership to team members on testing methodologies and processes

Define, document, and uphold standards of excellence through training, coaching, and review of others’ work

Contribute to meaningful, career-defining projects alongside exceptional colleagues in a collaborative environment

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

At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

SENIOR PROPULSION TEST ENGINEER II