Test and Launch Engineer II - Launch Pad Verified today
About the Role
The Test and Launch Operations team manages all aspects of testing, launching, and mission operations for Electron and Neutron rockets. As Test and Launch Engineer II, you will independently manage console operations, mentor junior staff, and lead projects to improve procedures and systems. This is an advanced operator role supporting continuous operational improvement across both Electron and Neutron missions.
What You'll Do
- Work in Mission Control as a console operator for launch pad systems during test campaigns, rehearsals, and launch operations
- Develop and maintain test plans, operational procedures, and checklists for ground systems operations
- Develop and improve Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) for ground systems monitoring and control
- Participate in operational readiness reviews, training simulations, and mission rehearsals
- Perform real-time troubleshooting and data analysis during live operations to resolve ground systems issues
- Conduct post-test and post-launch data analysis to support continuous improvement efforts
- Develop, operate, and test ground systems relating to Electron and Neutron launch vehicles
- Oversee the configuration and checkout of launch pad systems including GSE, fluid systems, and industrial controls
- Lead and manage testing projects for ground systems, including cryogenic loading tests, pressurization system checkouts, and integrated pad operations
- Mentor and train other operators within the Test and Launch Operations team on launch pad systems and ground operations
- Author, review and carry out operations procedures for launch pad systems
- Support the development of Neutron ground systems and operations procedures
- Receive instructional training and become qualified as a launch operator on Electron launch vehicles
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering (preferably Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, or Chemical Engineering)
- 2+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations, with focus on ground systems, industrial controls, or fluid systems
- Alternatively, 4+ years of experience in lieu of a degree
Preferred Qualifications
- 3+ years of experience in engineering design, test and/or operations
- Experience working in Mission Control or similar operational control environments
- Aviation/Aircrew/Flight Test background
- Experience with launch vehicles or spacecraft including integration, testing, launch, or mission operations
- Experience with ground support equipment, launch pad systems, or industrial control systems
- Solid understanding and experience working with fluid/cryogenic/pressurized/hazardous systems
- Good understanding/experience of real-time hazardous operations
- Experience with PLCs, SCADA systems, or automated control sequences
- Knowledge of propellant handling operations
- Experience developing operational procedures, test plans, or HMIs
- Background in real-time data analysis and troubleshooting
Compensation and Benefits
Base salary range: $87,000 to $109,000 USD. Total compensation (base and equity): $94,000 to $122,000 USD. Equity grants are designed around function, level, experience, and other factors; realized value depends on vesting and stock-price performance.
Benefits include Employee Stock Purchase Program (15% discount), medical, dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, 401(k) with company match, and additional discounts and perks.
US Work Authorization Requirement
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or U.S. Department of Commerce.
Working Conditions
This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.