Senior Spacecraft Operations Engineer II

2 days ago


Long Beach, California, United States Rocket Lab Full time
About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems, enabling some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. We're committed to unlocking the potential of space to improve life on Earth.

Space Systems Team

Our Space Systems team is responsible for designing, creating, and putting together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defense sectors. We're looking for a Senior Spacecraft Operations Engineer II to join our team and contribute to the development and on-orbit operations of our Photon satellites.

Job Summary

The Senior Spacecraft Operations Engineer II will play a key role in the development of Concepts of Operations for new missions, build and test flight scripts on test assets, and execute on-orbit operations on console in Rocket Lab Mission Control Center. You will support the Spacecraft Operations Manager and provide guidance and mentorship to the Spacecraft Operations team.

Key Responsibilities
  • Work with the launch operations team, spacecraft subsystem and systems engineers, flight software, program management, and ground support to build outcomes and products that support the whole team.
  • Support rigorous/challenging schedules during spacecraft ground-based testing, launch windows, and on-orbit operations.
  • Develop, review, and approve Mission Operations deliverables including procedures, robot test results, CONOPS.
  • Provide feedback, mentorship, and support for other team members.
  • Communicate frequently and effectively with stakeholders across disciplines, highlighting success and learning from failures.
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in aerospace, systems, software engineering, or other engineering degree.
  • Active TS/SCI clearance.
  • 8+ years of direct experience in space mission design, satellite subsystems, ground systems, or spacecraft operations.
  • Prior experience in spacecraft operations and satellite command and control.
  • CI/CD pipeline familiarity, version control, and cloud infrastructure.
  • Adept with Linux systems and software development experience with Python, C++ languages.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with building Fault Detection, Implementation, and Recovery (FDIR) scripting and testing.
  • Experience with software testing/validation on assets like Flatsat or Hardware-In-The-Loop (HITL) rigs, and robot testing.
  • Low Earth Orbit or interplanetary mission program experience.
  • Exposure to ground station operations and providers, across one-off and constellation missions.
Additional Requirements
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
  • Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
  • Must be physically able to commute to buildings.
  • Occasional exposure to dust, fumes, and moderate levels of noise.
What We Offer

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, and 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, childcare concierge, and other discounts.



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