Senior Ground Systems Engineer II, Instrumentation & Controls

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, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re-usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!

SENIOR GROUND SYSTEMS ENGINEER II, INSTRUMENTATION AND CONTROLS 

Based out of Rocket Lab's Launch Complex in Wallops VA, the Senior Ground Systems Engineer II, Instrumentation and Controls is responsible for the development, automation, testing and commissioning of fluid and gas systems at the Launch Complex site. You will support the test operations team and be responsible for software, PLC, networks, instrumentation and controls. 

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: 

• Design control systems for complex launch range systems. 

• Support certification of systems including producing documentation operator manuals, maintenance procedures, test procedures, and work instructions 

• Support technicians remotely or in person during installation, commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting activities 

• Become a subject matter expert in one or more of the necessary disciplines dealing with instrumentation, control systems, HMI, PLCs, software, and networks. 

• Perform test operations activities. 

• Post-test data analysis 

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor’s Degree in electrical engineering or other technical discipline 

• 8+ years of experience designing instrumentation and controls and related infrastructure for liquid launch vehicles 

• Hands-on experience with data acquisition, control, and automation systems 

• Experience with object Oriented PLC programming 

​THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:  

• Experience implementing functional safety (IEC 61508 & IEC 61511) 

• Experience with NI LabVIEW 

• Development with tools including:  C/C++, Python, TeamCity, EPlan, Beckhoff PLC Programming, NI cRio controller programming, Perforce Version Control System, Gitlab/Git Version Control System 

• Experience with complex industrial systems for flow of fluids, especially cryogenics and high pressures 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

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

• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.   

• Must be physically able to commute to buildings  

• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise.  

 

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 pressur