SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets - we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft and precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, including solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration and in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or vertically integrated components that help missions get to space, our world-class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

MANAGER, SPACECRAFT INTEGRATION & TEST

Based out of Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Manager, Spacecraft Integration & Test is a hands-on functional managing position. Reporting to the Senior Manager of Integration & Test, you will lead a dedicated sub-team to execute testing across multiple spacecraft programs. Your team will have 6 to 10 direct reports, and you will need to guide and mentor them while working alongside them on spacecraft development programs. You will also need to communicate your technical strategy and work cross-functionally on projects with almost every other engineering team. 

Our ideal candidate is someone with a strong integration & test background who has successfully led engineering teams through challenging projects and will be comfortable working in a fast-paced development environment. They will be responsible for the development and test of flight spacecraft systems, as well as the development, maintenance, and upgrading of the test systems for that hardware. 

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Functional Management: Execute functional management duties, including conducting 1-on-1s, delivering performance reviews, and actively guiding the career development of your direct reports.
• Leadership: Hire, mentor, and guide test engineering teams while representing the I&T department during critical milestone and flight readiness reviews.
• Process Improvements: Drive continuous improvement across the department by establishing and maintaining standardized test specifications, documentation templates, and optimized integration workflows.
• End-to-End Ownership: Own the spacecraft integration and test lifecycle from early design phases through launch site operations, spacecraft deployment, and on-orbit commissioning.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner directly with Design, Manufacturing, and Quality engineering teams to trace requirements, ensure design-for-testability, mitigate risks, and facilitate smooth hardware handoffs.
• Procedure & Script Development: Oversee and contribute to the authoring, review, and execution of comprehensive test procedures, system-level V&V (verification and validation) plans, and automated test scripts for functional and performance testing.
• Systems Integration: Lead and execute mechanical integration and electrical verification (bring-up, acceptance testing) across all core satellite subsystems, including avionics, propulsion, power, thermal, and RF.
• Anomaly Resolution: Direct multi-disciplinary failure investigations, perform root-cause data analysis on anomalous vehicle behavior, and document non-conformances to improve future hardware iterations.
• Test Campaign Execution: Manage and execute system-level environmental test campaigns, including Thermal Vacuum (TVAC), random sine/vibration, shock, acoustics, and EMI/EMC testing. 

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING:

• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace, mechanical, electrical, electronics, mechatronics, or other engineering discipline
• 8+ years of experience in a systems test engineer or other hands-on engineering role
• 1+ years of experience as a team lead, manager, or technical leader
• Deep working knowledge of spacecraft subsystems (e.g., C&DH, ADCS, EPS, Propulsion, Thermal) and their system-level interactions
• US citizenship is required, due to program requirements. Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Master’s or PhD in electrical, electronics, mechatronics, aerospace, or other engineering discipline.
• Proven track record of delivering multiple spacecraft from design through launch.
• Hands-on competence reading electrical schematics and using electrical test instrumentation (oscilloscopes, digital multimeters, power supplies, data acquisition systems) alongside mechanical ground support equipment.
• Proficiency with test automation and scripting languages (Python, C++, MATLAB), database querying (SQL), and familiarity with Linux environments.
• Experience with RF testing and hardware-in-the-loop testing.
• Understanding of sensors, signal conditioning, and data acquisition electronics.
• Experience working in a clean room and with ESD-sensitive equipment.
• Working knowledge of Siemens NX and Teamcenter.
• Comfort executing to aggressive deadlines within a high-pressure environment.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships with colleagues and engineering professionals.
• Demonstrated track record of coaching technical teams and successfully executing mentorship frameworks to develop junior engineers into senior roles. 

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.