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Ground Systems Electrical Engineer

Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab

Other Engineering
John C. Stennis Space Center, MS, USA
Posted on Friday, April 28, 2023

About The Role

Rocket Lab is a vertically integrated provider of small launch services, satellites, and spacecraft components. Our mission is to open access to space to improve life on Earth. Our team is over 1,500 people strong and we’re adding to it every week. Collaboration is at our core – every idea is heard, and everyone makes a difference. Teams are nimble, decisions are made quickly, and we are action oriented.

NEUTRON ROCKET

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program.

GROUND SYSTEMS ELECTRICAL ENGINEER

Based out of Rocket Lab's Test Facility at Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, the Ground System Electrical Engineer is responsible for critical test facilities to support the Archimedes rocket engine and the Neutron launch vehicle. You will work from conceptual design through build-out and activation of a brand new, from the ground up test facility. You will support the Fluid Systems and Propulsion organizations through delivery of functional ground systems required to perform necessary hot fire tests and checkout functions to ensure successful development and operations of engines and vehicle systems. You will become skilled in Test Operations roles and be expected to work independently in support of the overall test facility design, build and activation efforts.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

  • Design critical test infrastructure including process diagrams; line drawings; electrical system layout for power, lighting, computer systems; data acquisition system front and back ends; and instrumentation systems
  • Specify and procure electrical and computer systems equipment including data acquisition, PLC, and instrumentation
  • Coordinate with vendors and facilities groups to design, purchase, and fabricate key subsystems.
  • Collaborate closely with other Rocket Lab test and launch sites to ensure safety and seamless operation of electrical ground systems
  • Work onsite at our test facility for build-out & activation including preparation of test procedures, interfacing with data acquisition and control systems, and collecting and interpreting critical data to support test facility readiness
  • Collaborate with Archimedes engine and Neutron vehicle design teams to prepare and perform tests on key engine and stage hardware

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, electronics engineering, computer engineering or equivalent disciplines
  • Demonstrated experience designing, building and operating electrical systems at aerospace test or launch facilities either in internships, college activities or prior employment
  • Ability to travel to various facilities for extended periods during key fabrication and activation project phases
  • A passion for test operations facilities with evidence of personal and substantial contributions to similar projects

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • 3+ years’ experience designing and operating electrical systems for test stands or large industrial complexes
  • Knowledge of electrical safety and design codes like NFPA 70A
  • Experience operating facilities for liquid oxygen and liquid methane
  • Experience with National Instruments LabVIEW software and hardware
  • Ability to trouble shoot facility electrical systems and generate corrective work instructions
  • Working knowledge of computer networks and IT infrastructure
  • Knowledge of PLCs, data acquisition and instrumentation is a big plus
  • Demonstrated experience working with various disciplines, fabricators and suppliers to achieve on-time project execution
  • Ability to remain unfazed by ambiguity or changes in strategic direction while maintaining a positive attitude and being self-actualized and self-guided

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15) or eligible to obtain the required authorizations fromthe U.S Department of State.

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.

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.

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