Senior Avionics Test Engineer I/II

About The Role

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.

SPACE SYSTEMS

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.

Senior Avionics Test Engineer I/II

Based out of Rocket Lab’s global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Senior Avionics Test Engineer I/II is responsible for the design, test, and integration of the electrical systems and electronics that form the backbone of our Space Systems missions. You will support the Space Systems organization, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors.

• Develop test plans and programs in support of space flight hardware and systems development
• Manage and conduct Acceptance, Qualification and Proto-Flight test programs
• Develop automated test hardware and test platforms in support of test programs
• Support the design and development of space flight hardware to increase the level of design for testability and manufacturability
• Support the analysis of COTS component test levels against mission environmental test requirements
• Contribute to the development of engineering and business processes, including engineering and test processes, as well as other business processes to support Rocket Lab growth and capability
• Contribute to the development of engineering best practice areas such as test, design for manufacture and engineering change

You will bring these qualifications as a Senior Avionics Test Engineer I:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or other technical discipline
• 5+ years of experience with electronics test engineering, spacecraft systems engineering, or hardware development
• Understanding of electrical test equipment, test procedures, data acquisition systems, and instrumentation
• US citizenship is required, due to program requirements

You will bring these qualifications as a Senior Avionics Test Engineer II:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or other technical discipline
• 8+ years of experience with electronics test engineering, spacecraft systems engineering, or hardware development
• Understanding of electrical test equipment, test procedures, data acquisition systems, and instrumentation
• US citizenship is required, due to program requirements

These Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have:

• Master's or PhD in engineering (software, computer, electrical, aerospace, mechanical, or other technical engineering discipline)
• Understanding of how the various satellite subsystems function and interact with the whole vehicle
• Programming experience in Python
• Experience in environmental design testing, such as vibration, shock, thermal, and TVAC
• Experience working in a hardware or spacecraft production 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.

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.

Base pay range (CA only): $95,000—$156,000 USD

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.