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← Rocket Lab Corporation

Senior Spacecraft Operations Engineer I/II

Rocket Lab Corporation
Location
Long Beach, CA
Posted
16 days ago
Department
4015 USA Space Systems
What they actually want (must-haves)
  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering (software, computer, electrical, aerospace, mechanical, or other technical engineering discipline)
  • 5+ years of direct experience in space mission design, satellite subsystems, ground systems, spacecraft command control or spacecraft operations (for Senior Engineer I)
  • 8+ years of direct experience in space mission design, satellite subsystems, ground systems, spacecraft command control or spacecraft operations (for Senior Engineer II)
  • Understanding of key spacecraft subsystems and their associated components, including attitude determination and control, spacecraft electrical power systems, space-ground communications, on-orbit command and data handling, and thermal control
  • Understanding of the space environment, orbital mechanics, and rigid body dynamics
  • Software development experience (Python/Ruby/C/C++/other high-level languages)
Nice to have
  • Master’s or PhD in engineering (software, computer, electrical, aerospace, mechanical, or other technical engineering discipline)
  • Prior experience in spacecraft operations
  • Prior experience in satellite system design
  • Prior experience in satellite ground systems
  • Exposure to modern development practices – GIT, CI/CD, cloud infrastructure
What the job really is

The Senior Spacecraft Operations Engineer I/II at Rocket Lab is responsible for ensuring the health and performance of a fleet of satellites, supporting various missions including LEO constellations and interplanetary exploration. The role involves leveraging automation for spacecraft operations, developing ground and flight software, and collaborating with multiple engineering teams to enhance capabilities. This position requires a blend of technical expertise and operational oversight during critical mission phases.

Benefits
  • Competitive base pay
  • Company stock as part of total compensation package
  • Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock)
  • Top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution)
  • Dental and vision coverage
  • Paid vacation and sick time
Things to weigh
  • No specific salary range mentioned for the Senior Engineer I/II levels beyond base and total compensation ranges.
  • The role covers a multitude of responsibilities, which may imply a broad scope of work that could be demanding.
  • Position requires the ability to obtain and maintain US Security clearance, which may be a barrier for some candidates.
Job score3.4/5
Benefits5/5
Freshness4/5
Career value4/5
Role clarity4/5
Pay transparency0/5

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