Senior Propulsion Automation & Test Systems Engineer
Waikato, NZ
Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.
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
- Experience working in remote or autonomous engineering site environments
If you're excited by complex systems, hands-on engineering, and taking ownership of mission-critical test infrastructure that directly enables spaceflight, we'd love to hear from you.
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.