Spacecraft Operations Engineer Pipeline

ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is a full‑service space company that delivers launch services, spacecraft design and manufacturing, satellite payloads, and more to advance space accessibility. CREATE, BUILD, AND OPERATE SPACECRAFT The Space Systems team designs and builds satellites, subsystems, and components for missions to the Moon, Mars and beyond. The Spacecraft Operations Engineer works at the Auckland Production Complex to operate and design spacecraft operations, from LEO constellations to deep‑space missions. RESPONSIBILITIES Command and operate spacecraft, integrating automation throughout. Develop and test ground and flight software for long‑term missions. Create operational scripts and telemetry/FDIR configurations. Lead validation using simulation tools (HITL, flatsat). Support spacecraft through integration, testing, launch and on‑orbit life. Drive continuous improvement of systems, processes and performance. QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s degree in aerospace, systems, software engineering or related field. 3+ years of experience in space mission design, satellite subsystems, ground systems or spacecraft operations. Background in mission design or spacecraft operations/command. Experience with Linux and programming in Python, C++ or other high‑level languages. Strong understanding of spacecraft systems (ADCS, power, comms, C&DH, thermal). Solid grasp of orbital mechanics, space environment and dynamics. Ability to thrive in fast‑paced, multi‑priority environments. WANTED (Nice to have) Postgraduate degree in aerospace engineering. Experience in spacecraft operations, satellite design or ground systems. Familiarity with modern dev tools (Git, CI/CD, cloud). Hardware‑in‑the‑loop (HITL) testing experience. LEGAL AND REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS Applicants must meet U.S. Government export regulations under ITAR. U.S. Offices: candidates must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents or otherwise eligible to obtain required authorizations. New Zealand Offices: applicants must hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, NewZealand, Switzerland, the EU, or NATO‑member nations (or the equivalent) and satisfy additional background checks. EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr