Senior Integration & Test Engineer I

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.

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 Integration & Test Engineer I

Based out of Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Senior Integration & Test Engineer I is responsible for the development, test, and deployment of flight spacecraft systems, as well as the development, maintenance, and upgrading of the test systems for that hardware. You will support the Space Systems organization, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors.

• Lead and own integration and test campaigns at various levels of spacecraft development
• Work collaboratively with team members to define systems requirements, as well as verification and validation plans
• Develop acceptance, qualification, and R&D test plans for spacecraft systems
• Develop, maintain, and operate environmental test systems (Vibe, TVAC, Thermal, EMI, etc.)
• Develop and maintain mechanical and electrical ground support equipment and facilities
• Interface with ground test software and implement flight software configuration changes
• Lead investigations into anomalous vehicle behavior
• Interface with hardware-in-the-loop test systems

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical, electronics, mechatronics, aerospace, or other engineering degree
• 5+ years of experience in a test engineering or other hands-on engineering role
• Experience with environmental testing, such as thermal vacuum or random vibration testing
• Proficiency with C, C++, Python, or MATLAB; and Windows 10 and Microsoft Office products
• Experience in writing technical documentation, such as procedures, reports, and requirements

• Master’s or PhD in electrical, electronics, mechatronics, aerospace, or other engineering degree
• 4+ years of professional experience as a test engineer in the aerospace industry
• Strong understanding of satellite subsystems (CDH, ADCS, EPS, and COMM)
• Experience working in a clean room and with ESD-sensitive equipment
• Hands-on experience using electrical test equipment (PSU, Oscilloscope, DMM, etc.)
• Exposure to designing and implementing test systems for electronics
• Familiarity with spacecraft harness design and best practices
• Experience with 3D CAD software, preferably NX
• Experience with RF testing and hardware-in-the-loop testing
• Basic knowledge of networking

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.