Junior HITL Engineer

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

While other companies talk about it, we do it!

ABOUT ENGINEERING AT ROCKET LAB:

Engineering is at the heart of Rocket Lab. Our engineering team has a proven track record of designing and developing world-class rockets and spacecraft that are changing the way we access and use space. You’ll work alongside driven, talented engineers from varied backgrounds and experience levels, all committed to the same mission. Our engineering team members span design, analysis, prototyping, testing, manufacturing, assembly and integration, quality control, engineering documentation, and more.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

As a Junior HITL Engineer at Rocket Lab, you will be responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining our HITL (Hardware In The Loop) systems, which are crucial for Verification and Validation, and performance testing of our launch vehicles: Electron and Neutron.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Designing, operating and maintaining HITL systems.
• Work and do hands-on testing with flight hardware.
• Work in a cross-disciplinary team to verify the functionality and performance of Rocket Lab’s Launch Vehicles.
• Operating the Launch Vehicle simulation platform for Day of Launch operations.
• Creating and maintaining accurate technical documentation, including system diagrams, schematics, ICDs, procedures, and test/anomaly reports.
• Analysing test results to determine pass/fail criteria.
• Troubleshooting and identifying root causes of anomalies, and communicating results with internal teams, vendors, or customers.
• Providing critical reviews for test plans, procedures, and documentation.
• Operating and capturing data from test equipment such as DMMs, oscilloscopes, and logic analysers.

You will also work closely with other departments including GNC (Guidance, Navigation and Control), FSW (Flight Software), Avionics, Propulsion, RF, OpSW (Operational Software), Ground Systems, and more to develop, build, and operate the HITL simulators. Your role is crucial in ensuring that our HITL systems are scalable, reliable, efficient, always online, and ready to go.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor / Master / PhD in Mechatronics, Computer Science, Electronics, or related field.
• A strong theoretical and practical understanding of electronic systems.
• Experience with software development.
• Exposure to designing and implementing test systems for electronics.
• Understanding of sensors and data acquisition systems.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to build strong working relationships.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experienced operating Windows and Linux machines from CLI.
• Python, C, C++, C#.
• Knowledge of TCP/IP networking and subnetting.
• Experience with digital and analogue signals, serial/TTL communications.
• Experience in debugging electronics with Oscilloscopes and Logic Analysers.
• Familiarity with CI (Continuous Integration) and Git.
• Understanding of harness design, RF systems, and low voltage power systems.
• Familiarity with CAD for test fixture and support equipment design.
• Knowledge of embedded systems and PLCs.

Rocket Lab Employee Benefits

• The opportunity to work on innovative and groundbreaking technology
• An employee stock purchase program
• Access to world leading experts to develop your career
• Unlimited barista coffee, fruits and snacks
• Rocket Lab merchandise – T-shirts, mission patches etc.
• Discounted health insurance with Southern Cross
• Additional parental leave entitlements
• A vibrant team culture with social activities throughout the year

If the above sounds like you, apply now!

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.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to 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. Learn more about ITAR

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, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here