Long Beach, California, United States · On-site
$82k–$118k/yr
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 acce…
Skills: Spacecraft Operations, Ground Software Development, Flight Software Sequencing, Python, Ruby
Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand · On-site
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 acce…
Skills: CFD, Thermal Modeling, Hypersonic Aerodynamics, Subsonic Aerodynamics, Heat Transfer Analysis
Tucson, Arizona, United States · On-site
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 acce…
Skills: Electrical Design, Analog Circuit Design, Digital Circuit Design, EMI/EMC Guidelines, Opto-electronics
Tucson, Arizona, United States · On-site
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 acce…
Skills: Deep Learning, Neural Networks, Computer Vision, Image Processing, Video Analysis
Middle River, Maryland, United States · On-site
$37/hr–$45/hr
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 acce…
Skills: Composite Fabrication, Team Leadership, Lamination, Vacuum Bagging, Autoclave Curing
Long Beach, California, United States · On-site
$170k–$225k/yr
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 acce…
Skills: GNC Design, ADCS Development, Flight Software Implementation, Spacecraft Autonomy, Monte Carlo Simulation
Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand · On-site
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 acce…
Skills: Electronics Hardware Development, Schematic Capture, PCB Layout, Digital Circuit Design, Power Circuit Design
Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand · On-site
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 acce…
Skills: Spacecraft Operations, Ground Software Development, Flight Software Development, Python, C++
Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand · On-site
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 acce…
Skills: Hardware In The Loop (HITL), Avionics Testing, Electronics Design, Technical Documentation, Root Cause Analysis
Long Beach, California, United States · On-site
$80k–$126k/yr
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 acce…
Skills: Altium Designer, Schematic Capture, PCB Layout, Circuit Analysis, SPICE
Long Beach, California, United States · On-site
$150k–$185k/yr
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 acce…
Skills: Project Management, Software Development Lifecycle, Agile Methodologies, Scaled Agile Framework, Jira
Long Beach, California, United States · On-site
$82k–$103k/yr
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 acce…
Skills: Brand Design, Graphic Design, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign
Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand · On-site
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 acce…
Skills: Production Coordination, ERP Systems, Microsoft Office, Inventory Management, Kanban
Wallops Island, Virginia, United States · On-site
$76k–$95k/yr
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 acce…
Skills: Launch Operations, Ground Support Equipment, Fluid Systems, Cryogenic Systems, Hazardous Materials Handling
Tucson, Arizona, United States · On-site
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 acce…
Skills: Systems Engineering, Electro-Optical Sensors, Requirements Management, Technical Budgeting, Test Planning
Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand · On-site
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 acce…
Skills: CFD Simulations, Thermal Modeling, Python, NX CAD, Teamcenter
Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand · On-site
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 acce…
Skills: Finite Element Analysis, Dynamic Simulations, Vibration Testing, Shock Testing, Python
Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States · On-site
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 acce…
Skills: Systems Engineering, Technical Leadership, Project Coordination, Technical Writing, Configuration Management
Long Beach, California, United States · On-site
$190k–$220k/yr
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 acce…
Skills: Strategic Financial Leadership, Cost Management, Financial Planning, Forecasting, Cost Variance Analysis
Toronto, Ontario, Canada · On-site
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 acce…
Skills: Manufacturing Engineering, Continuous Improvement, Design For Manufacture, Six Sigma, Lean Principles
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Manage the health, safety, and performance of a satellite fleet across various mission phases from commissioning to re-entry. Develop and test ground and flight software, automation scripts, and interface specifications to ensure reliable mission execution.
Requires a Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline and U.S. citizenship. Candidates need proficiency in software development (Python/C++) and a strong understanding of spacecraft subsystems and orbital mechanics.
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.
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
Based on site at our Long Beach, CA site the Spacecraft Operations Engineer I/II is responsible for managing the health, safety, and performance of a growing fleet of satellites to meet mission objectives for commercial and government customers. This role involves supporting various mission phases, including commissioning, orbit raising, routine operations, and re-entry, across diverse mission types such as satellite constellations, interplanetary exploration, and orbital rendezvous. The position requires close collaboration with cross-functional teams, including spacecraft design, software, propulsion, and ground systems, to enhance satellite and ground-based capabilities.
The space operations experience at Rocket Lab is unique because you will cover a multitude of roles/positions and responsibilities, with the large majority of the technical products being supplied through the vertical integration/in-house.
(Please note: this position can be hired at the Engineer I or Engineer II level)
This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.
Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.
Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.
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:
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 Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.
Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at [email protected].This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:
For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.
Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.
We open access to space to improve life on Earth.
Rocket Lab builds, launches, and operates rockets and spacecraft for our global customers. Our Electron launch vehicle is the world’s most frequently launched orbital small rocket, our HASTE rocket is progressing America’s hypersonic capabilities on suborbital missions, and our larger Neutron rocket is currently in development. From across the United States, Canada, and New Zealand, Rocket Lab designs and manufactures individual spacecraft components to entire satellites constellations for missions to Earth orbit, the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
Offices: 3881 McGowen St, Long Beach, California 90808, US · 25 Levene Pl, Auckland, 1060, NZ · 7815 Shaffer Pkwy, Littleton, Colorado 80127, US · 20 Maud St, Toronto, Ontario M5V 2M5, CA · 10420 Research Rd SE, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87123, US
We open access to space to improve life on Earth.
Rocket Lab builds, launches, and operates rockets and spacecraft for our global customers. Our Electron launch vehicle is the world’s most frequently launched orbital small rocket, our HASTE rocket is progressing America’s hypersonic capabilities on suborbital missions, and our larger Neutron rocket is currently in development. From across the United States, Canada, and New Zealand, Rocket Lab designs and manufactures individual spacecraft components to entire satellites constellations for missions to Earth orbit, the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
Offices: 3881 McGowen St, Long Beach, California 90808, US · 25 Levene Pl, Auckland, 1060, NZ · 7815 Shaffer Pkwy, Littleton, Colorado 80127, US · 20 Maud St, Toronto, Ontario M5V 2M5, CA · 10420 Research Rd SE, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87123, US
