Avionics Automation Test Engineer II

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 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.

About the Space Systems Team

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.

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 bury forever 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 Qualifications

• 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 robotframework

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.

Pay

Base Pay Range (CA Only): $85,000 USD - $115,000 USD

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.

Benefits

• Company stock as part of your total compensation package, giving you a direct stake in our success
• Employee Stock Purchase Program with a 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

Additional perks include:

• Subsidized EV charging
• Onsite fitness centers (where available)
• Discounted gym memberships
• Complimentary snacks and beverages
• 50% employee discount on our popular merch store
• A variety of other employee discounts