Senior HITL Engineer II

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 

Rocket Lab’s Space Systems team is responsible for every satellite and satellite component made by Rocket Lab: from complete satellites destined for missions to the Moon and Mars, to the individual components and subsystems that make up a satellite like solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels and star trackers, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team is made up of engineers, technicians, and designers who design, create, and put together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defense sectors, or who build and assemble satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions.

SENIOR HITL ENGINEER II

Based out of Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Senior HITL Engineer II is responsible for designing, maintaining, and operating hardware in the loop (HITL) systems. You will support the HITL Manager, Shared Services and Space Systems organization, with deliverables requested by internal leadership, board of directors, and investors.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Design, operate, and maintain the HITL systems for the Rocket Lab spacecraft buses
• Work hands-on with test and flight hardware
• Work in a cross-disciplinary team to verify the functionality and performance of the Rocket Lab spacecraft buses
• Operate launch vehicle simulation platform for Day of Launch operations for specific missions
• Make and maintain accurate technical documentation via system diagrams, schematics, ICDs, procedures, test/anomaly reports
• Analyze test results from raw data for pass/fail criteria
• Troubleshoot root cause from anomalies and communicate the results and path forward with internal team, vendors, and customers
• Provide critical review for test plans, procedures, and documentation
• Operate and capture data from test equipment (DMMs, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, spectrum analyzers, etc.)

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechatronics, electronics, computer science, aerospace engineering, or related field
• 8+ years of engineering experience with hardware, software or electronics testing development
• Experience with designing and implementing electronics test systems
• Meticulous with configuration management and documentation

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: 

• Master’s or PhD in mechatronics, electronics, computer science, aerospace engineering, or related field
• Ability to understand and create technical documentation via system diagrams, schematics, ICDs, procedures, test/anomaly reports
• Theoretical and practical understanding of electronic systems
• Ability to work under pressure and adhere to tight deadlines
• Familiarity with RS485/422/232, CAN, LVDS protocols
• Familiarity with CAD for test fixture and support equipment layout and design
• Strong understanding of sensors, signal conditioning, and data acquisition electronics
• Ethernet TCP/IP networking experience: switching, routing and subnetting
• RF Systems experience
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to be self-motivated
• Exposure to spacecraft systems or similar highly complex and autonomous systems
• Experience with PLCs, relays, and power systems
• Experience with Python, C++, Linux, CI/CD, Git, NX, VeSys, RapidHarness, SolidWorks
• Previous HIL/PIL experience

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus