Full-Time

Senior Spacecraft Operations Engineer I

TS/SCI Clearance

Posted on 9/10/2024

Rocket Lab USA

Rocket Lab USA

1,001-5,000 employees

Provides launch services and spacecraft solutions

Robotics & Automation
Aerospace
Defense

Compensation Overview

$130k - $180kAnnually

+ Company Stock + Cash Incentives

Senior

Littleton, CO, USA

Based on site at Rocket Lab's global office in Littleton, CO.

US Top Secret Clearance, US Citizenship Required

Category
Research & Development
Space & Rocket Engineering
Aerospace Engineering
Required Skills
Python
C/C++
Linux/Unix
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in aerospace, Systems, Software engineering or other engineering degree
  • Active TS/SCI clearance
  • 8+ years of direct experience in any of the following: space mission design, satellite subsystems, ground systems, or spacecraft operations
  • Prior experience in spacecraft operations and satellite command and control
  • CI/CD pipeline familiarity, version control and cloud infrastructure
  • Adept with Linux systems and software development experience with Python, C++ languages
Responsibilities
  • Works with the launch operations team, spacecraft subsystem and systems engineers, flight software, program management, and ground support to build outcomes and products that support the whole team.
  • Support rigorous/challenging schedules during spacecraft ground-based testing, launch windows, and on-orbit operations.
  • Strong communication skills and constructive participation in forward planning and incident response.
  • Inform the design of ground control software to optimize situational awareness and streamline spacecraft command and control.
  • Develop, review and approve Mission Operations deliverables including procedures, robot test results, CONOPS.
  • Provide feedback, mentorship, and support for other team members.
  • Communicates frequently and effectively with stakeholders across disciplines, highlighting success and learning from failures.

Rocket Lab provides comprehensive space solutions, including launch services, spacecraft components, and satellite management. Their main products are the Electron rocket, which is designed for small satellite launches, and the Photon satellite platform, which supports various missions, including those for NASA. The Electron rocket has gained popularity for its reliability, becoming the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket since its debut in 2018, successfully delivering over 100 satellites into orbit. Rocket Lab differentiates itself from competitors by offering a streamlined approach to accessing space, with multiple launch sites and a focus on affordability and efficiency. The company's goal is to make space more accessible for both private and public sector organizations, facilitating advancements in areas like national security, scientific research, and climate monitoring.

Company Stage

IPO

Total Funding

$713.3M

Headquarters

Long Beach, California

Founded

2006

Growth & Insights
Headcount

6 month growth

11%

1 year growth

32%

2 year growth

77%
Simplify Jobs

Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • Growing interest in hypersonic tech expands Rocket Lab's service offerings.
  • Collaboration with Air Force enhances capabilities in national security space launches.
  • Investment from Pier 88 indicates strong financial confidence in Rocket Lab.

What critics are saying

  • Competition from SpaceX as Rocket Lab develops the Neutron rocket.
  • Potential delays in Virginia launch site could impact schedules and revenue.
  • Reliance on New Zealand site poses risks from geopolitical tensions or disasters.

What makes Rocket Lab USA unique

  • Rocket Lab's Electron is the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually.
  • Photon platform supports NASA missions to Moon, Mars, and private Venus mission.
  • Neutron rocket development positions Rocket Lab as a leader in carbon fiber composites.

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