Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer — Avionics

Job overview

Compensation is $107,000–$147,000 per year. The Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer — Avionics role is onsite at Launch Complex 3 on Wallops Island, VA. in the listing’s base-salary field; the description states a base salary range of $107,000–$147,000 and total compensation (base and equity) of $149,000–$174,000. The role supports Rocket Lab’s Electron and Neutron launch operations, including HASTE missions at Wallops Island. The engineer leads avionics operations teams and ensures systems, procedures, and facilities are ready for test and launch activity. Mission Control operations, training, troubleshooting, and process improvements contribute to safe, reliable launch operations and the ability to scale launch cadence.

What you'll do

• Lead engineers responsible for avionics hardware, software, and ground station systems
• operate as an avionics console operator during tests, rehearsals, and launches
• maintain CONOPS
• develop test plans, procedures, and checklists
• design and implement HMIs
• lead readiness reviews and simulations
• troubleshoot and analyze live-operation anomalies
• analyze post-test and post-launch data
• develop training programs and qualification matrices
• lead root-cause analysis and corrective actions
• develop Neutron avionics procedures and test campaigns.

What we're looking for

Skills & competencies

lead test & launch operations engineer

avionics

wallops island va

rocket lab

launch operations

mission control

electron

neutron

haste

telemetry

ground stations

base $107k–$147k/year

Work arrangement

• Weekend coverage required

Benefits & perks

• Company stock, employee stock purchase program with 15% discount, medical, dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, 401(k) with company match, and other discounts and perks.

Why this role

Senior operational leadership role with technical authority for avionics systems during mission-critical operations; company stock is part of total compensation.

About the employer

Rocket Lab Corporation is hiring for this role. Industry: Space Research and Technology. Sector: 92.