Ground Systems Engineer II/Senior – Instrumentation and Controls

ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. 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 become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.  NEUTRON Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program. If you’re interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re-usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity! GROUND SYSTEMS ENGINEER II/SENIOR - INSTRUMENTATION AND CONTROLS  As a Ground Systems Engineer II/Senior – Instrumentation & Controls - you will collaborate with electrical, mechanical, and software teams to support our launch operations, testing facilities, and mission-critical infrastructure. This role is hands-on and collaborative, requiring you to work closely with suppliers, technicians, and cross-functional teams to deliver world-class solutions. From concept to commissioning, you will play a key role in ensuring Rocket Lab’s Ground Systems are reliable, efficient, and ready to support our missions. WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: Design, development, verification, and maintenance of software for data acquisition, command/telemetry flow, hardware abstraction, and control of field instrumentation. Implementation of closed-loop control algorithms and automated sequences which enable and optimize launch and test operations. Configuration and troubleshooting of PLC systems and networked I/O devices. Leading commissioning activities and system integration efforts to ensure seamless deployment of new systems. Developing HMI software and user interfaces for critical systems and mission operations. Creating and maintaining technical documentation, including software system designs, functional logic diagrams and operational procedures. Ensuring ground systems meet safety, regulatory, and operational standards. Interact with suppliers and internal teams Perform failure investigations and root cause analysis. Support maintenance program development (Please Note: this position can be hired as a Ground Systems Engineer II or Senior Ground Systems Engineer level) YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A GROUND SYSTEMS ENGINEER II:  Bachelor’s degree in software, mechatronics, electrical, or related engineering discipline. 2+ years of experience in software or control systems engineering, preferably in an aerospace, automotive, or industrial environment.  Proficiency in text-based/object-oriented programming languages (Structured Text, Python, or C++) Experience using Git or an alternative software version control system. Experience with closed-loop control design, implementation, and tuning. Experience with signal processing, filtering, and data conditioning techniques for noisy sensor environments. Knowledge of basic IT networking concepts and industrial communication protocols (UDP, TCP/IP, Modbus, EtherCAT) Basic familiarity with electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and troubleshooting techniques. YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATION AS A SENIOR GROUND SYSTEMS ENGINEER  Bachelor’s degree in software, mechatronics, electrical, or related engineering discipline. 5+ years of experience in software or control systems engineering, preferably in an aerospace, automotive, or industrial environment.  Proficiency in text-based/object-oriented programming languages (Structured Text, Python, or C++) Experience using Git or an alternative software version control system. Experience with closed-loop control design, implementation, and tuning. Experience with signal processing, filtering, and data conditioning techniques for noisy sensor environments. Knowledge of basic IT networking concepts and industrial communication protocols (UDP, TCP/IP, Modbus, EtherCAT) Basic familiarity with electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and troubleshooting techniques. THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: Understanding of common sensors and instrumentation and how they work (pressure transducers, RTDs, thermocouples, etc.) Beckhoff/TwinCAT Platform Experience National Instruments/LabVIEW Platform Experience Fluid systems understanding and experience designing control systems for Pressure regulation and flow path management, Filling and de-tanking of pressure vessels, Valve actuation and control Experience designing instrumentation, control, and automation systems for test stands or large industrial facilities Experience designing ISA-88 (batch control) and ISA-101 (HMI) compliant SCADA and HMI systems ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.  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 l