Senior Integrated Avionics Engineer

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.  

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

NEUTRON  

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program. If you’re interested in joining a high performing team and pushing the boundaries of humanity with a clean sheet, reusable launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!  

SENIOR INTEGRATED AVIONICS ENGINEER  

Based out of Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Senior Integrated Avionics Engineer is responsible for the end-to-end development of major subsystems and functions across current and future versions of the Neutron reusable launch vehicle. You will be part of a small, agile, and effective US-based avionics team supporting the global Neutron program.  

You will interface with a range of stakeholders, including local propulsion and fluids systems teams, commercial vendors, and external regulatory bodies. A core area of focus will be Neutron’s Flight Termination System (FTS), which offers a unique multi-disciplinary experience across electronics, analysis, test, and destruct systems.  

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:   

• Define requirements, specifications, and test plans for avionics systems and components, including FTS electrical, arming, and ordnance chains.  
• Develop and execute against complex mission- and safety-critical systems, including analysis support such as simulation and modelling activities.  
• Take ownership of components from initial concept through integration and launch.  
• Develop strategies for how to break-up the vehicle via FTS, including running destruct analyses and executing sub-scale testing campaigns.  
• Work with launch teams to support integration and operation of avionics subsystems, optimizing for per-flight cadence and reusability.  
• Execute destructive lot acceptance and qualification testing.  
• Develop fixturing and electrical ground support equipment for use in production and at the launch site.  
• Generate certification deliverables and work with regulatory agencies (e.g. FAA, NASA) to tailor requirements as applicable.  
• Travel to vendor and test sites around the United States, approximately 10%  

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:  

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline or other technical discipline.  
• 5+ years experience in two of the following areas: flight termination systems, avionics, interfacing with regulatory agencies.  
• Experience performing environmental testing with avionics or ordnance devices.  
• Knowledge of electrical test systems, hardware, and environmental survivability.  

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:   

• Professional experience with Altium Designer, Capital/VeSys, or similar tools.  
• Professional experience with NX, Ansys, or similar tools.  
• Experience with ordnance device procurement and supply chain.     
• Experience with PCBA and harness design and manufacturing.   
• Experience with best practices for design, qualification, and production of avionics systems for launch vehicles.  
• Experience with an agile development environment.  
• Knowledge of detonation physics and fracture mechanics. 

The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the California Equal Pay for Equal Work Act. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience. 

Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab’s compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, stock options, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted sto