Spacecraft Operations Engineer II - Secret Clearance Preferred
Rocket Lab · Long Beach, CA
About this role
**Spacecraft Operations Engineer II** **Location:** Long Beach, CA (On-site) **About the Role:** Rocket Lab is seeking a Spacecraft Operations Engineer II to ensure the health, safety, and optimal performance of a growing fleet of satellites. You'll support diverse missions including LEO constellations, interplanetary exploration, and government deployments across commissioning, orbit raising, routine operations, and re-entry phases. **What You'll Do:** • Leverage automation and software-driven solutions for efficient spacecraft operations • Design, develop, and test ground software for long-term space operations • Design and test flight software sequences and fault management systems • Maintain continuous integration and testing of operational code • Support on-call operations and shift coverage • Develop test methods and data analysis • Run validation against spacecraft simulation tools (flatsat, HITL, etc.) • Support AIT teams across multiple spacecraft integrated tests • Perform requirements validation and verification • Provide technical support between Auckland, NZ and Long Beach teams **Required Qualifications:** • Bachelor's degree in engineering (software, computer, electrical, aerospace, mechanical, or related discipline) • 2+ years direct experience in space mission design, satellite subsystems, ground systems, command/control, or spacecraft operations • Understanding of spacecraft subsystems (ADCS, EPS, communications, C&DH, thermal control) • Knowledge of space environment, orbital mechanics, and rigid body dynamics • Software development experience (Python, Ruby, C, C++, or similar) • Ability to obtain and maintain US security clearance **Nice to Have:** • Master's or PhD in engineering • Prior spacecraft operations or satellite system design experience • Experience with satellite ground systems • Modern development practices (GIT, CI/CD, cloud infrastructure) • SIL/HIL testing experience • Active TS/SCI security clearance **Compensation:** • Base Salary: $94,400 – $129,800 USD • Total Compensation (with equity): $104,475 – $147,425 USD • Stock options, ESPP (15% discount), comprehensive benefits, paid time off, parental leave, 401(k) match, and more **ITAR Requirement:** Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State/Commerce.
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