Senior Propulsion Automation & Test Systems Engineer
Rocket Lab Corporation
| Company | Rocket Lab Corporation |
| Category | Engineering |
| Location | Waikato |
| Remote | On-site (inferred) |
| Employment | Not stated |
| Level | Senior |
| Salary | Not stated by the employer |
| Posted | 21 May 2026 |
| Last verified | 7 Aug 2026 |
| Source | Employer ATS (greenhouse) |
Description
ABOUT ROCKET LAB
Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. 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 become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.
SENIOR PROPULSION ENGINEER - AUTOMATION AND TEST SYSTEMS
As a Senior Propulsion Engineer - Automation and Test Systems based at Rocket Lab’s site in the Propulsion Test Complex (PTC), you will have the opportunity to support the testing, validation, and continuous improvement of propulsion test stands that directly enable launch vehicle readiness and flight qualification. In this role you will work on troubleshooting live test systems and designing, commissioning, and upgrading automated control and data systems that ensure safe, reliable, and efficient propulsion testing. To be successful in this role, you must be highly self-directed, hands-on, and comfortable operating independently in a remote facility as the on-site subject matter expert for complex automated systems. Join a driven team that’s tackling challenging projects, delivering on exciting missions, and making an impact on the future of space.
WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:
Act as the primary on-site expert for propulsion test stand automation and control systems at PTC
Provide day-to-day troubleshooting and operational support for live propulsion test infrastructure
Design, commission, and implement upgrades to test systems and automation architecture
Develop and maintain test sequences, data acquisition, and control systems using National Instruments platforms
Integrate PLC, software, and hardware systems to improve reliability and test throughput
Work closely with remote engineering teams and Ground Systems Engineering (GSE) to resolve complex issues
Identify bottlenecks in test operations and implement continuous improvement solutions
Support integration of test systems with enterprise tools, logging systems, and data pipelines
YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Software, Electrical, Mechatronics, or equivalent hands-on discipline)
Strong experience with National Instruments systems (LabVIEW, test sequencing, troubleshooting)
Experience with industrial automation systems, including PLC-based control systems (e.g. Beckhoff or similar)
Proficiency in at least one programming language (Python, C, or C#) and familiarity with engineering toolchains
Hands-on experience with instrumentation, sensors, and electromechanical systems in industrial environments
Proven ability to independently troubleshoot and resolve complex systems issues in live operations
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
Experience in fluid systems or fluid-powered test environments
Background in manufacturing automation or production line commissioning
Experience with SQL, data acquisition systems, or industrial data pipelines
Familiarity with TestStand, FlexLogger, or other National Instruments ecosystem tools
Experience integrating operational systems with ERP/EIS platforms
Exposure to high-reliability or safety-critical test environments
Expe