Ground Systems Engineer I - Instrumentation & Control

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 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 rockethas 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.

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. Our success is powered by our peopleengineers technicians and innovators working together to make space more accessible and useful for everyone. Now were looking for a talented Ground Systems Engineer I Instrumentation and Control to join our Auckland team.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As a Ground Systems Engineer in the Instrumentation and Control (ICE) team youll maintain and develop control systems that support our world-class facilities. These systems are critical to enabling the testing build and launch of our Electron and Neutron launch vehiclesat a speed faster than they are manufactured.

Youll work on both new control system development and supporting operational systems. This includes designing automation solutions supporting infrastructure commissioning and collaborating with operations and test teams to ensure systems run smoothly safely and effectively.

Whether youre delivering a project from concept to implementation or taking ownership youll work under the guidance of senior engineers while developing the skills to lead increasingly complex technical work.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Design & Development

• Own and deliver small-scale control projects from concept to commissioning
• Contribute to larger engineering sprint teams by executing tasks aligned with architectural guidance
• Simulate validate and document system functions before deployment
• Write and maintain operator manuals test procedures and maintenance documentation

Operational Support

• Provide hands-on and remote support for ICE system installation commissioning and testing
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues quickly to minimize downtime
• Ensure proper usage and safety of systems advising teams when configurations are used outside of intended design
• Analyse post-flight and post-test data to inform continuous improvement.

WHAT YOU BRING

Required Skills & Experience

• Tertiary qualification in Mechatronics Electrical or Control Systems Engineering
• Proficiency in at least two programming languages (e.g. Python C Structured Text)
• Strong debugging and troubleshooting skills
• Excellent documentation and communication abilities
• A collaborative mindset with a proactive ownership-driven approach

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience automating industrial or high-reliability systems
• Familiarity with PLC platforms such as Beckhoff or Codesys
• Understanding of object-oriented programming
• Experience with Git/GitLab version control
• Hands-on exposure to instrumentation control systems or machinery

READY TO LAUNCH

Apply now and be part of a team thats redefining whats possible in space and on Earth.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Were on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth but thats 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 others 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.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder) or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race color religion age sex national origin disability status genetics protected veteran status sexual orientation gender identity or expression or any other characteristic protected by federal state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab including recruiting hiring placement promotion termination layoff recall transfer leaves of absence compensation and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia Japan New Zealand Switzerland the European Union or a country that is part of NATO or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations click hereITAR Regulations.