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 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.

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 Lab’s Photon satellites and MethaneSAT, while contributing to the development of advanced space operations capabilities.

As part of the Spacecraft Operations team, you’ll play a critical role in ensuring the health and performance of Rocket Lab’s 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 YOU’LL BE DOING:

• Support with day-to-day operations of Rocket Lab’s 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 YOU’LL 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 what’s 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 you’re 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

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.