Spacecraft Operations Engineer

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 seeking a Spacecraft Operations Engineer to join our growing team in Auckland New Zealand. This is a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge space missions including the operation of Rocket Labs Photon satellites and MethaneSAT while contributing to the development of advanced space operations capabilities.

As part of the Spacecraft Operations team youll play a critical role in ensuring the health and performance of Rocket Labs fleet of spacecraft supporting mission objectives and driving innovation in space operations. This role is ideal for someone with a strong background in spacecraft systems and operations who thrives in dynamic environments and is passionate about advancing space exploration.

WHAT YOULL BE DOING:

• Support withday-to-day operations of Rocket Labs Photon satellites and customer spacecraft ensuring mission objectives are met and spacecraft health is maintained.
• Support with scripts software and tools to automate spacecraft operations improving efficiency and reliability.
• Collaborate with launch operations flight software and subsystem teams to develop operational plans for Photon missions.
• Respond to and resolve issues across the fleet ensuring minimal disruption to mission objectives.
• Support with the scheduling of mission operations to maximise the efficacy of science payloads.

WHAT YOULL BRING:

• 1.5 - 2.5 years years of spacecraft operations experience with a strong understanding of orbital mechanics spacecraft systems and mission planning.
• Proficiency in spacecraft power systems attitude control systems propulsion RF communications embedded software or similar fields.
• Experience with Python Ruby or other high-level programming languages and familiarity with modern development practices like CI/CD and cloud infrastructure (AWS/GCP).
• A proactive approach to resolving spacecraft anomalies and improving operational efficiency through automation.
• Strong communication skills to work effectively with internal teams and external mission operators.

WHY ROCKET LAB:

Be part of a team that redefines whats possible in space exploration. From operating advanced spacecraft to supporting groundbreaking science missions this role offers the chance to make a tangible impact on the future of space technology.

If youre passionate about space operations and want to work on missions that inspire the world we want to hear from you. Apply today and take the next step in your career with Rocket Lab.

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.