Team Lead – Ground Systems Engineering

ABOUT ROCKET LABRocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems.
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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world.
Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future.
Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heightsENGINEERINGEngineering is at the heart of Rocket Lab.
Our engineering team has a proven track record of designing and developing world-class rockets and spacecraft that are changing the way we access and use space.
You'll work alongside driven, talented engineers from varied backgrounds and experience levels, all committed to the same mission.
Our engineering team members span design, analysis, prototyping, testing, manufacturing, assembly and integration, quality control, engineering documentation, and more.TEAM LEAD- GROUND SYSTEMS – TEAM YTake your engineering career to new heights as our Ground Systems Engineering Team Lead.
You'll lead the design, build, testing, and commissioning of advanced launch and test facilities, acting as a key decision-maker and subject matter expert.Support Electron operations, collaborate with the GSE Manager to meet project deadlines, and drive your team's professional development and performance.
While focused on the Electron program, you'll also support the Neutron program as needed.WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:Technical Skills & Mechanical:Design systems for storing, transferring, and conditioning fuels, oxidizers, and cryogenics.Engineer structures/mechanisms for launch vehicles, spacecraft handling, and ground support.Create models using 2D & 3D CAD software.Size and analyse systems using hand calculations and numerical methods.Select components and assess material compatibility.Develop and maintain BOMs and interact with suppliers and internal teams.Support certification of launch pad systems and maintenance programs.Oversee certification processes to US and NZ standards.Get hands-on during project build phases.Operations Support:Provide real-time support during launch and test operations.Develop and execute test plans for launch pad and vehicle interface systems.Collaborate with ops teams to ensure system functionality.Support technicians during installation, commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting.Design and maintain test equipment and lifecycle management plans.Analyse data post-flight and post-test and maintain interface control documentation.Attend and contribute to meetings and readiness reviews as a subject matter expert.Team Development:Manage projects and tasks for up to 8 team members.Plan team capacity and resources effectively.Mentor junior staff and oversee their professional development and performance.Handle all team-related project management activities.Health and Safety:Ensure adherence to health and safety policies and standard operating procedures.Make sure PPE is worn in designated areas and report near misses and incidents promptly.Financial Management:Maintain accurate budgets and support financial reporting.Follow company financial policies and procedures.Reporting:Prepare monthly internal reports and ad hoc board and management reports, including performance and variance analysis.Other:Be prepared for domestic and international travel as needed.Additional duties as reasonably required, and adherence to company policies and procedures.YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:Bachelor's degree in mechanical, Aerospace Engineering, Science, or a related fieldOver 6 years of experience in a relevant engineering disciplineExposure to engineering management, team leadership, or project managementAbility to thrive in a fast-paced, autonomous environmentTHESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:Experience with launch pad systems or industry experience in oil and gas, processing, mining, or similar fieldsFamiliarity with applying standards such as NASA, ASME, ASTM, IEC, or AS/NZSBe part of our story, there's not many like it
Apply todayWHAT TO EXPECT We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task.
It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible.
Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace.
We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small.
We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.Important information:FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable.
Learn more about ITAR here.Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at ****** dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview.
Only messages left for this purpose will be considered.
A response to your request may take up to two business days.FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant.
These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality.
For more information on these Regulations, click here.
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