About This Role
This senior engineering role focuses on supporting the testing, validation, and continuous improvement of propulsion test stands within the Propulsion Test Complex (PTC). The engineer will troubleshoot live test systems and design, commission, and upgrade automated control and data systems to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient propulsion testing. This position suits a highly self-directed and hands-on professional comfortable operating independently as the on-site subject matter expert for complex automated systems.
Responsibilities
- 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
Requirements
- Bachelor
- 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
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
About the Company
Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company that builds rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems to connect and protect the world, and expand humanity