Avionics Development 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 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 rocket has 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.

Are you ready to be part of a team that’s redefining the future of space exploration? As an Avionics Development Engineer, you’ll play a critical role in designing, testing, and delivering cutting-edge avionics systems that power rockets and payloads into orbit. This is your opportunity to work hands-on with state-of-the-art technology, including flight computers, RF systems, high-voltage components, and guidance systems, directly impacting mission success and pushing the boundaries of innovation.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Lead the testing of avionics components, including computing modules, RF systems, flight termination hardware, and high-voltage systems, ensuring reliability and performance.

• Collaborate with stakeholders to translate system functionality into clear test requirements and actionable plans.

• Take ownership of research and development test campaigns from concept to delivery, ensuring quality at every stage.

• Work hands-on with hardware during component bring-up, integration, and operations, partnering with multidisciplinary teams to resolve challenges.

• Apply first-principles analysis to identify root causes of failures in avionics and battery hardware, performing risk assessments and implementing solutions.

• Design, improve, and maintain electrical schematics, PCBAs, and BOMs to support hardware lifecycle management.

• Partner with technicians and manufacturing engineers to diagnose and resolve production issues, ensuring seamless processes.

What You’ll Bring to the Team:

• Ability to interpret piece-part schematics and analyse circuits.

• At least 2 years of real-world experience in hardware development or electronics test engineering.

• Lab equipment expertise, proficiency with oscilloscopes, power supplies, frequency generators, and other lab instrumentation.

• Requirement definition & test planning; Experience in defining requirements, writing test plans, and producing detailed test reports.

• Electrical Design Skills; Knowledge of PCBA design and lifecycle management.

• Environmental Testing Experience: Familiarity with thermal, shock, vibration, and TVAC testing processes.

• Standards & Regulatory Knowledge: Experience working with industry standards and regulatory bodies to ensure compliance.

Why You Should Join Us:

• Your work will directly contribute to groundbreaking space missions and cutting-edge technology.

• Work alongside industry-leading engineers and professionals in a fast-paced, innovative environment.

• Get up close and personal with avionics systems that power rockets and payloads into orbit.

• Enjoy opportunities for professional development and career advancement in a rapidly growing industry.

What We Value:

• A positive, “How can I help?” attitude that fosters collaboration and innovation.

• A commitment to health and safety, ensuring policies and procedures are followed.

• A proactive approach to problem-solving, taking ownership of tasks and projects.

• A willingness to travel domestically and internationally as needed.

Ready to Launch Your Career?

This is your chance to be part of a team that’s shaping the future of space exploration. If you’re excited by the idea of working with cutting-edge technology, solving complex engineering challenges, and ensuring mission success, we want to hear from you! Join us in pushing the boundaries of innovation and engineering excellence – and take your career to new heights. Apply Now!

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.

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 [email protected] 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 here ITAR Regulations.