Rocket Lab

Senior Avionics Automation Test Engineer I

Rocket Lab$100K — $130K *
Aerospace & Defense
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5+ years in space systems, especially spacecraft testing or software
  • 4+ years programming experience with Python or similar in distributed apps
  • Strong knowledge of Linux systems and command-line tools
  • Experience mentoring or leading engineering teams
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related technical field
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a top secret clearance

Responsibilities

  • Architect and deploy the internal test automation platform for spacecraft
  • Own the test automation for Assembly, Integration, and Test (AIT) campaigns
  • Develop and maintain automated test processes for hardware/software validation
  • Integrate and automate test equipment with spacecraft interfaces
  • Contribute to the development of the core test platform and its capabilities

Benefits

  • Industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program with 15% discount
  • Top-tier medical, dental, and vision plans
  • Paid vacation, sick time, and 11 paid holidays
  • Flexible spending and dependent care accounts
  • Paid parental leave and disability/life insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Subsidized EV charging and onsite fitness centers
Full Job Description
SENIOR AVIONICS AUTOMATION TEST ENGINEER I

We're currently seekingan Senior Avionics Automation Test Engineer I for our global headquarters in Long Beach, CA. This team is responsible for automating and improving the testing efficiency of both the individual avionics and the completed satellites.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:
  • Architect and lead the deployment and utilization of our internal test automation platform for future spacecraft programs
  • Own test automation for Assembly, Integration and Test (AIT) team test campaigns across the entire program life cycle
  • Develop, review, and maintain automated test processes for spacecraft hardware and software validation, establishing best practices and coding standards
  • Integrate and automate test equipment and spacecraft interfaces into the test platform, making architectural decisions on telemetry, command, and data management
  • Contribute to core platform development, including backend services and test framework capabilities

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS FOR A SENIOR AVIONICS AUTOMATION TEST ENGINEER I
  • 5+ years of experience in space systems, ideally with spacecraft test, systems, or spacecraft software background
  • 4+ years of professional programming experience with Python or similar languages in distributed application contexts
  • Strong Linux systems knowledge and command-line proficiency
  • Experience mentoring or leading other engineers
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or other technical discipline
  • Willingness to obtain and maintain a top secret clearance

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
  • An existing secret or top secret clearance
  • Production experience with Python backend development
  • Hands-on experience with RobotFramework or similar test automation frameworks
  • Experience with software deployment and orchestration tools such as Docker and Kubernetes
  • Experience with networking, IT infrastructure, and systems administration
  • Experience with CI/CD pipelines and automated testing infrastructure
  • Experience with spacecraft communication protocols and bus interfaces

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.

Join one of the world's fastest-growing space companies and own a piece of it. In addition to competitive base pay, you'll receive company stock as part of your total compensation package, giving you a direct stake in our success. As we expand to new launch sites, groundbreaking missions, and global markets, your ownership has the opportunity to grow alongside the company.

Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock), top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution), 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, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.

Additional perks include subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers (where available), discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on our popular merch store, and a variety of other employee discounts.

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base Pay Range (CA Only)

$100,000-$130,000 USD

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a private American aerospace manufacturer and small satellite launch service provider. The company was founded in 2006 by New Zealander Peter Beck. Rocket Lab's Electron rocket is designed to launch small payloads of up to 300 kg into low Earth orbit. The company has launched several successful missions and has contracts with NASA and other organizations. Rocket Lab has raised over $200 million in funding and has offices in the United States and New Zealand.
Learn more about Rocket Lab
Size
500 employees
Market Cap
$1.6 billion
Industry
Founded
2006
NASDAQ

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Rocket Lab

More Aerospace & Defense Jobs

Find similar Senior Avionics Automation Test Engineer I jobs: