People Matter

Integrated Operations Engineer II - Team X

Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab

Operations
Auckland, New Zealand
Posted on Jun 27, 2025

About The Role

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

INTEGRATED OPERATIONS ENGINEER II – TEAM X

Integrated Operations is the Rocket Lab organisation responsible for Electron launch vehicle and Photon testing and operations starting with stack testing through pre-launch processing, launch, on-orbit operations, and mission disposal. Testing and operations may be conducted remotely or on-site at propulsion test facilities (MTC, PTC), the Auckland Mission Control Centre (MCC), LC-1 (Mahia), LC-2 (Wallops Island, VA), or other designated locations. Be at the forefront of testing, launching, and managing Electron launch vehicles.

The Engineer II is an advanced role within Integrated Operations. The Engineer II will have a detailed understanding of disciplines related to testing and operations. The Engineer II will have or develop skills in multiple operational roles, including roles where he/she will direct, mentor, and train other operators. In addition, the Engineer II will take a leadership/ownership role in testing and operations projects and process or tool development efforts.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

  • Develop, coordinate, and execute plans and procedures to efficiently, effectively, and safely conduct testing, operations, and flight.
  • Lead and conduct test and operations on-console (while maintaining situational awareness and real-time communications throughout test and operations activities).
  • Prepare for and conduct testing, pre-launch operations, and launch operations.
  • Define test and operations requirements.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve test and operations issues real-time.
  • Perform failure investigations and root cause analyses sufficient to prevent recurrence of issues.
  • Perform post-test and post-flight data review and analyses.
  • Continually improve and streamline integration, testing, and operations.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS:

  • Degree in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
  • 2 + years of experience in engineering design, test, and/or operations.
  • Experience and/or expertise with mechanical systems including one of more of structures, mechanisms, propulsion, pressurization, hydraulics, pneumatics, HVAC, instrumentation, or command & control systems.
  • Able to maintain situational awareness and real-time communications throughout complex operations.
  • Careful work ethic with an eye for detail.
  • Demonstrated ability to work under pressure and to strict deadlines.
  • Self-driven, motivated, and contagiously positive.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • 3+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations.
  • Demonstrated experience working in safety/mission-critical, high-stress environments.
  • Experience working with launch vehicles or spacecraft including integration, testing, launch, and/or on-console mission operations.

Apply today and join our team as we drive forward to ensure mission success.

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 g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.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.

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