Senior Avionics Engineer

Rocket Lab
NZ - auckland
March 15, 2025

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!

ABOUT THE TEAM

Rocket Lab Space Systems started with the CAPSTONE mission in support of NASA's Artemis program, launching a satellite into a unique Near Rectilinear Halo Orbit around the moon.
Then we became just the second company to successfully complete reentry from orbit, enabling microgravity manufacturing for the first time.
Soon we're going to Mars! Designing and building spacecraft to undertake a groundbreaking science mission with the University of California Berkeley and NASA.

Our Space Systems team does the impossible, taking on the most challenging and rewarding missions - and we're only just getting started! This role offers a rare opportunity to be part of our growing team.
You will collaborate with exceptionally talented and dedicated people, pushing boundaries, and reshaping what is possible - together.
We manufacture single bespoke satellites for highly complex missions, through to entire constellations.
And we're unique in offering vertical integration with our in house satellite components too.
This means we can move fast, design and build components exactly the way we want them, and constantly innovate.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Based in New Zealand, this is a broad-spectrum role primarily responsible for the verification & validation of avionics components for space applications, primarily reaction wheels.
Our fundamental goal is to ensure our products survive the rigors of launch and space for the entire mission lifecycle.
Your role working with avionics hardware is critical to this mission, and the main line of defence to ensure the quality and reliability of Avionics components in a fast-paced development environment.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

Lead and carry verification and validation programs for space systems components
Management of requirements and program documentation outputs
Support design engineers to ensure that designs are manufacturable and testable to the product requirements
Develop the procedures & processes for component tests and company standards that will form the baseline for programs into the future
Lead problem containment and root cause/corrective action investigations, when required
Identify, plan, and execute capital equipment, machine, and layout upgrades to meet testing requirements, including preparation of business cases

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's degree or higher in electrical engineering, mechatronics, mechanical engineering, or related engineering disciplines
5+ years of experience with hardware development or electronics test engineering
Proficiency in working to standards that cover environmental design testing, such as vibration, shock, thermal, EMI/EMC and TVAC
Understanding of instrumentation, interfaces and sensors including power supplies, oscilloscopes, serial devices, switch topologies, accelerometers, thermocouples, RTDs, and 4-20mA sensors
Proficiency in understanding design principles, and manufacturing techniques to analyse and improve test coverage
Experience with ticketing and documentation control software (JIRA / Confluence / GIT / Teamcenter / Altium Vault or equivalent)

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

3+ years of programming experience, preferably in Python, or C/C++
Familiarity with National Instruments platforms including DAQ, PXI, and cRIO
Proficiency in statistical data analysis
Familiarity with relevant test standards such as SMC-S-016, SMC-S-018, GEVS, DO160, MIL-STD-461 etc
Experience developing automated in-circuit test platforms such as Bed-of-Nails

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 pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

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Read the full job description and apply online on the recuiter's web-site

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