Senior Systems Test Engineer I
About the role
Senior Systems Test Engineer I
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.
The 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
- Design, document, review and execute tests on spacecraft avionics
- Plan, write and execute test scripts that verify hardware/software interfaces and validate requirements
- Author and review test plans, hardware drawings, test summary and reports
- Design, specify and procure test fixtures and other hardware as needed
- Collaborate with flight software developers and Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) engineers to troubleshoot hardware and software anomalies
- Communicate plans and results with leadership, team and customers
- Travel to customer and vendor facilities to aid hardware delivery, checkout and commissioning
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering or other technical discipline
- 5+ years of experience developing or testing electrical systems (avionics, automotive, spacecraft)
- Programming experience with Python or similar scripting languages
- Demonstrated knowledge of RLC circuit design and test equipment (DMMs, Oscilloscopes etc.)
- Ability to obtain a Security clearance and maintain one
- U.S citizenship is required, due to program requirements
Nice to have
- Master’s degree in aerospace, computer science, electrical engineering
- Experience testing spacecraft avionics according to customer and internally derived requirements
- Understanding of hardware design from concept to production
- Experience testing or working with radio frequency communication systems
- Familiarity with communication protocols (Ethernet, UART, LVDS, CAN, etc.)
- Active Secret or Top Secret Security clearance