Avionics Automation Test Engineer II
About Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity’s reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.
About the Space Systems team
Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft and 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. The team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration and in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives, and 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.
About the role
We’re currently seeking an Avionics Automation Test Engineer II for our global headquarters in Long Beach, CA. This team is responsible for automating and improving the testing efficiency of both the individual avionics and the completed satellites.
Responsibilities
- Lead the deployment and utilization of our internal test automation platform for future spacecraft programs
- Provide critical support to the Assembly, Integration and Test (AIT) team as they execute spacecraft test campaigns using our software
- Collaborate with other users of our software such as systems, flight software, ground software, and operations, adding features and managing deployments to meet their diverse needs
- Investigate, resolve, and permanently fix bugs and issues that other teams encounter
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering or other technical discipline
- 2+ years of experience in space, ideally with a spacecraft test, systems, or spacecraft software background
- 2+ years of experience with programming in the context of distributed applications
- Experience with Linux
- Ability to obtain a Top-Secret clearance
Nice to have
- Secret or Top-Secret clearance
- Experience with Python, JavaScript, and/or TypeScript
- Experience with software deployment tools such as Docker or Kubernetes
- Experience with networking and IT
- Experience with software unit testing, such as pytest or Robot Framework
Work environment
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.
Total Compensation
Total Compensation (base and equity): $93,275 USD – $121,625 USD
Base Salary: $83,200 USD – $104,000 USD
Benefits
- Company stock as part of total compensation
- Employee Stock Purchase Program (15% discount on company stock)
- Top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero-cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution)
- Dental and vision coverage
- Paid vacation and sick time
- 11 paid holidays
- Flexible spending and dependent care accounts
- Paid parental leave
- Disability and life insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match
- Subsidized EV charging
- Onsite fitness centers (where available)
- Discounted gym memberships
- Complimentary snacks and beverages
- 50% employee discount on company merchandise
- Variety of other employee discounts