Manager- Test & Launch Operations
On-site · Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland, Auckland, New ZealandOn-siteFull TimeSenior LevelBachelors DegreeAerospaceLarge
Type
Full Time
Level
Senior Level
Education
Bachelors Degree
Company size
Large
Industry
Aerospace
Job Summary
Lead front-line engineering teams executing critical test and launch operations for Electron and Neutron, balancing safety with agility to maintain Rocket Lab's launch cadence. Drive regulatory compliance, continuous improvement, and operational frameworks in fast-paced, high-stakes aerospace environments. The role emphasizes leadership, decision-making under pressure, and the ability to develop engineering talent while delivering complex missions.
Required Qualifications
- 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 spanning fluid mechanics, electrical/power systems, automation, instrumentation/control, and software integration
- Proven experience in propulsion systems, test engineering, and ground test operations
- 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 environments
- Track record of motivating and developing engineering talent in demanding operational environments
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