Integration & Test - Academic Part-Time

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!

SPACE SYSTEMS

This is a rare opportunity to play a key role in Rocket Lab’s evolution into an end-to-end space company that delivers launch, spacecraft, and on-orbit operations. The Space Systems Division is shaping Rocket Lab’s future with Photon, our brand of high-performance satellites, enabling innovative missions in low Earth orbit and beyond including missions for NASA to LEO, the Moon, and Mars and commercial customers, including leading the design and manufacture of 17 high-power telecommunication spacecraft buses for Globalstar.

Rocket Lab is also growing our spacecraft components business, anchored on the acquisition of Sinclair Interplanetary manufacturing reaction wheels and star trackers in Toronto, SolAero Technologies manufacturing solar power and primary structure solutions in Albuquerque, Planetary Systems Corporation manufacturing launch separation systems in Silver Spring, and Advanced Solutions, Inc., provider of flight and ground software as a service in Denver. Our components business is key to vertically integrating our spacecraft solutions and enabling constellations for customers.

 

INTEGRATION & TEST – ACADEMIC PART TIME

Based out of Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Integration & Test - Academic Part Time is responsible for the development, test, and deployment of flight spacecraft systems, as well as the development, maintenance, and upgrading of the test systems for that hardware. You will support the Space Systems organization, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors.

Position Type: Hourly, part-time ~10 hours/week

Term: Flexible based on candidate availability and class schedule. Must maintain active academic attendance and involvement.

 

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Plan and perform integration and test campaigns at various levels of spacecraft development
• Work collaboratively with team members to define systems requirements, as well as verification and validation plans
• Develop acceptance, qualification, and R&D test plans for spacecraft systems
• Develop, maintain, and operate environmental test systems (Vibe, TVAC, Thermal, EMI, etc.)
• Develop and maintain mechanical and electrical ground support equipment and facilities
• Interface with ground test software and implement flight software configuration changes
• Lead investigations into anomalous vehicle behavior
• Interface with hardware-in-the-loop test systems

 

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS INTEGRATION & TEST – ACADEMIC PART TIME:

• Continued enrollment into studies of an active bachelor’s degree in electrical, electronics, mechatronics, aerospace, or other engineering degree
• Experience in test engineering or other hands-on engineering role
• Proficiency with C, C++, Python, or MATLAB; and Windows 10 and Microsoft Office products
• Experience in writing technical documentation, such as procedures, reports, and requirements

 

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience with environmental testing, such as thermal vacuum or random vibration testing
• Professional experience as a test engineer in the aerospace industry
• Understanding of satellite subsystems (CDH, ADCS, EPS, and COMM)
• Experience working in a clean room and with ESD-sensitive equipment
• Hands-on experience using electrical test equipment (PSU, Oscilloscope, DMM, etc.)
• Exposure to designing and implementing test systems for electronics
• Understanding of sensors, signal conditioning and data acquisition electronics
• Familiarity with spacecraft harness design and best practic