Director Test & Launch Operations

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 an extraordinary leader to command our Test and Launch Operations someone who thrives when the countdown hits zero and the world is watching. As Director of Test and Launch Operations youll be at the heart of our mission leading the teams that put Electron and Neutron into space and keeping Rocket Lab at the forefront of the industrys most ambitious launch schedules.

Youll build high-performing teams develop world-class facilities and create the operational frameworks that make complex missions look seamless.

Were looking for an experienced leader who thrives in fast-paced high-stakes environments someone who can balance rigorous safety standards with the agility needed to maintain our competitive edge. Youll navigate regulatory requirements drive continuous improvement and set the tempo for an industry watching our every move.

YOULL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

Required:

• Bachelors degree in Aerospace Mechanical Electrical or Mechatronic Engineering (or equivalent discipline)
• 10 years of hands-on experience in aerospace engineering testing and/or operations
• 5 years leading multi-disciplinary engineering teams in fast-paced time-critical environments
• Proven track record of building coaching and managing high-performing technical teams
• Deep technical expertise across multiple domains: launch vehicle/spacecraft systems orbital mechanics telemetry tracking systems launch pad operations and process controls
• Excellent technical writing skills with demonstrated ability to develop clear mission-critical procedures and documentation
• Strong foundation in test planning execution and safety/mission assurance protocols
• Ability to perform under pressure and deliver exceptional results in high-stakes situations
• Superior organizational and communication skills with the ability to distill complex technical concepts for diverse audiences

Desirable:

• Real-world rocket launch operations experience
• Background working at launch vehicle test or launch facilities
• Working knowledge of FAA RCC NASA and USAF compliance requirements

You dont go to Mars working eight to five Monday to Friday. If youre a high performer hungry for work with genuine impact where your engineering excellence directly shapes space exploration national security and critical infrastructure youve found your place. We take delivery incredibly seriously. Failure is not in our DNA. The work is hard demanding and not for the faint-hearted.

In return youll solve problems that actually matter alongside experts who run toward challenges not away from them.

If this resonates with you apply today!

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.