Senior Integrated Electrical Systems Engineer

Job Ref: 4982296003 | Type: Regular

**About The Role**:
**ABOUT ROCKET LAB**

Rocket 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 heights

**SPACE SYSTEMS**

Rocket Lab Space Systems started with the CAPSTONE mission in support of NASA’s Artemis program, launching a satellite into a unique Near Rectilinear Halo Orbit around the moon. Then we became just the second company to successfully complete reentry from orbit, enabling microgravity manufacturing for the first time. Soon we’re going to Mars Designing and building spacecraft to undertake a groundbreaking science mission with the University of California Berkeley and NASA. We manufacture single bespoke satellites for highly complex missions, through to entire constellations. And we’re unique in offering vertical integration with our in-house satellite components too. This means we can move fast, design and build components exactly the way we want them, and constantly innovate.

Our Space Systems team does the impossible, taking on the most challenging and rewarding missions - and we’re only just getting started This role offers a rare opportunity to be part of our growing team. You will collaborate with exceptionally talented and dedicated people, pushing boundaries, and reshaping what is possible - together.

**SENIOR INTEGRATED ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS ENGINEER**

Based out of Rocket Lab's NZ headquarters in Auckland, NZ, the Senior Integrated Electrical Systems Engineer will play a pivotal role in the end-to-end development of our spacecraft missions. This role spans all technical phases, including requirements definition, electrical architecture design, harness design, system modelling, power and energy budget management, integrated testing, and on-orbit operations support.

You will develop and optimize electrical architectures, design complex wiring harnesses, and utilize advanced modelling tools to ensure robust performance in space. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams, you will oversee the build and testing processes, ensuring all functional and performance requirements are met and promptly resolving any issues to minimize delays. This is a unique opportunity to work directly with flight hardware and be responsible for designing electrical systems that will be launched into space - not in the next decade, but tomorrow.

**WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO**
- Define mission and system requirements to support mission objectives
- Develop technical budgets and systems analysis to ensure vehicle performance and reliability
- Design spacecraft electrical architectures and harnesses
- Define, Implement, and carry out subsystem and system level test plans and procedures for requirements verification and validation
- Guide technicians and determine integration flow for optimal spacecraft build and assembly
- Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams to develop end-to-end solutions, for example
- Propulsion - All our spacecraft are equipped with advanced propulsion systems for delta-V capabilities, you will work closely with our fabulous propulsion team to integrate this capability into the spacecraft design
- Vehicle design - Our creative design team will require your input to ensure all requirements are being met, and come up with new ways to squeeze a spacecraft onto a small rocket
- GNC - Work with our one-in-a-million GNC team to integrate advanced sensors and actuators to perform state-of-the art maneuvers on orbit
- Provide program support to team leads and program managers and be a key technical interface between the Auckland, NZ and Long Beach, USA engineering teams

**YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS**
- A Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field (advanced degree preferred).
- Proven experience (5+ years) specifically on aerospace/satellite development programs, which can be anywhere from initial design through on-orbit operations
- Proficiency in electronics principles and electrical systems, including power electronics, communication systems (e.g., RS-422, SPI, Ethernet, CAN bus), signal integrity, and grounding.