Manager- Test & Launch Operations - Relocation provided to NZ

Manager - Test & Launch Operations

Company: Rocket Lab Location: Sydney NSW Work Type: Full-time Work Arrangement: Onsite

Rocket Lab is an integrated space company providing responsive launch services, spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, and satellite components, with the objective of expanding access to space. The rockets and satellites developed and launched by Rocket Lab support significant global space missions, including scientific exploration, Earth observation, climate change initiatives, national security, and novel technology demonstrations.

The Electron rocket is the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually, having delivered over 230 satellites to orbit. Rocket Lab is also developing Neutron, a forthcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployments. The Space Systems division designs and manufactures a comprehensive range of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft selected for NASA missions to the Moon and Mars, and components utilized on the James Webb Space Telescope.

Rocket Lab is seeking a Manager for Test and Launch Operations. This role requires an individual who excels during critical operational phases. You will lead front-line engineering teams responsible for executing vital test and launch operations for Electron and Neutron, contributing significantly to Rocket Lab's leading launch cadence. Your responsibilities will include building high-performing teams and developing operational frameworks to ensure complex missions appear seamless. The ideal candidate is an experienced leader comfortable in fast-paced, high-stakes environments, capable of balancing stringent safety standards with the agility required to maintain a competitive advantage. You will manage regulatory compliance, champion continuous improvement, and set the pace for an industry observing our operations closely.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, or Mechatronic Engineering (or equivalent).
• 8+ years of hands-on aerospace engineering, testing, and/or launch or flight operations experience.
• 3+ years leading multi-disciplinary engineering teams in fast-paced, time-critical environments.
• Multi-disciplinary hands-on engineering expertise across fluid mechanics, electrical/power systems, automation, instrumentation/control, and software integration.
• Demonstrated experience in propulsion systems, test engineering, and ground test operations.
• A strong understanding of launch vehicle and spacecraft systems, with exposure to mission operations.
• Proven ability to make time-critical decisions and effectively troubleshoot anomalies in high-stakes situations.
• A track record of motivating and developing engineering talent in demanding operational settings.

Desirable Qualifications:

• Real-world rocket launch operations experience.
• Experience working at launch vehicle test or launch facilities.
• Working knowledge of FAA, RCC, NASA, and USAF compliance requirements.

Rocket Lab is committed to unlocking space's potential to improve life on Earth. This mission necessitates hard work, determination, innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving ambitious goals. Our team out-thinks, out-works, and out-paces. We support each other, leave egos aside, and are prepared to undertake any task, regardless of size. We perform well under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and focus on delivery rather than dwelling on challenges.

This role is for high performers seeking work with tangible impact, where engineering excellence directly influences space exploration, national security, and critical infrastructure. We are serious about delivery; failure is not an option. The work is challenging and demanding. In return, you will solve significant problems alongside experts who actively embrace challenges.

For candidates seeking to work in US offices only: To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law.