Ground Systems Engineer I, Electrical Verified today
About Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
The Neutron Programme
Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering mega constellations, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, it will deliver cost-effective and reliable launch leveraging Rocket Lab's proven Electron program history.
The Role
Based at Rocket Lab's Test Facility at Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, you will be responsible for critical test facilities supporting the Archimedes rocket engine and Neutron launch vehicle. You will work from conceptual design through build-out and activation of a brand new test facility from the ground up. You will support the Fluid Systems and Propulsion organizations through delivery of functional ground systems required to perform hot fire tests and checkout functions to ensure successful engine and vehicle systems development and operations. You will become skilled in Test Operations roles and work independently in support of overall test facility design, build and activation.
What You Will Do
- Design critical test infrastructure including process diagrams, line drawings, electrical system layout for power, lighting, computer systems, data acquisition system front and back ends, and instrumentation systems
- Specify and procure electrical and computer systems equipment including data acquisition, PLC, and instrumentation
- Coordinate with vendors and facilities groups to design, purchase, and fabricate key subsystems
- Collaborate closely with other Rocket Lab test and launch sites to ensure safety and seamless operation of electrical ground systems
- Work onsite at test facility for build-out and activation including preparation of test procedures, interfacing with data acquisition and control systems, and collecting and interpreting critical data to support test facility readiness
- Collaborate with Archimedes engine and Neutron vehicle design teams to prepare and perform tests on key engine and stage hardware
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, electronics engineering, computer engineering or equivalent disciplines
- Demonstrated experience designing, building and operating electrical systems at aerospace test or launch facilities either in internships, college activities or prior employment
Desirable Qualifications
- Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering or related engineering field
- Experience operating facilities for liquid oxygen and liquid methane
- Knowledge of electrical safety and design codes like NFPA 70A
- Experience with National Instruments LabVIEW software and hardware
- Ability to troubleshoot facility electrical systems and generate corrective work instructions
- Working knowledge of computer networks and IT infrastructure
- Knowledge of PLCs, data acquisition and instrumentation
- Demonstrated experience working with various disciplines, fabricators and suppliers to achieve on-time project execution
- Ability to remain unfazed by ambiguity or changes in strategic direction while maintaining a positive attitude and being self-actualized and self-guided
Working Conditions
- Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing
- Must be physically able to commute to buildings
- Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise
- Ability to support nights and weekend work as needed
- Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus
ITAR Requirements
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), candidates must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable.