Ground Systems Engineer II - Electrical

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!

ELECTRON

Rocket Lab’s Electron team is responsible for building, testing, and launching our Electron rocket across our launch sites and test facilities in the United States and New Zealand. Electron is one of the world’s most frequently-launched rockets, and our team behind its success are diligent, move fast, and have each others’ back to deliver a reliable rocket to the launch pad time and time again.

GROUND SYSTEMS ENGINEER II -ELECTRICAL

Are you an innovative Electrical Engineer ready to take on new challenges? As a vital member of our Ground Systems Engineering team, you'll be at the forefront of designing, building, testing, and commissioning cutting-edge launch range systems and test sites for our Electron, Neutron, and Space Systems. This role will have you handling everything from power generation to launch vehicle communications, ensuring our missions are fully powered and seamlessly connected.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Design and draft launch range electrical systems, including power systems, lightning protection, lighting, data/IT systems, and control systems.
• Perform cable sizing, harness design, load calculation, and component selection.
• Develop panel design and layout for high-vibration, harsh, and explosive environments.
• Conduct system sizing and analysis, ensuring design standards are met.
• Sign off on designs and take ownership of launch pad systems.
• Produce risk assessments, system hazard analyses, and FMEAs.
• Support failure investigations and root cause analysis.
• Provide remote and in-person support to field technicians.
• Offer real-time support during launch operations.
• Participate in pre-test/pre-flight readiness reviews and post-test/post-flight data reviews.
• Develop and execute maintenance programs and test plans for launch pad systems.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Electrical engineering degree or equivalent
• 2+ years industrial experience
• Proficient in designing, commissioning, operating, and maintaining power supply systems, including generators and UPS
• Strong knowledge of low and high voltage AC & DC systems
• Hands-on experience with electrical equipment, data acquisition, control, and automation systems
• Ability to read, understand, and produce electrical schematics
• Excellent communication skills and ability to build strong working relationships
• Experience leading complex engineering projects
• Ability to thrive in fast-paced, autonomous environments

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: 

• Experience with launch pad systems or industries like oil and gas, process, or mining (not mandatory)
• EPLAN and NI LabVIEW experience is an asset
• Familiarity with designing electrical systems for explosive atmospheres (AS/NZS/IEC 60079 or equivalent)

Join our team and be a part of our groundbreaking projects!

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.   

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant.  These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations. 

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality.  For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.