Senior Development Avionics Engineer

Job Ref: 5195517003 | 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

**ELECTRON**

Rocket Lab’s Electron team is responsible for building, testing, and launching our Electron rocket across our launch sites and test facilities in the United States and New Zealand. Electron is one of the world’s most frequently-launched rockets, and our team behind its success are diligent, move fast, and have each others’ back to deliver a reliable rocket to the launch pad time and time again.

**WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO**:
As the **Senior Avionics Development Engineer**, you’ll be spearheading the design and rigorous testing of avionics components for the Electron launch vehicle. Your role demands a high level of expertise in electronic circuit design and PCB development, ensuring that all mission-critical and safety-critical systems adhere to stringent aviation standards. From pioneering cutting-edge test systems to delivering production-ready avionics, you'll be driving each project from concept to seamless implementation, including the development of software and custom electronics.

In addition to your technical responsibilities, you will play a crucial role in mentoring and guiding junior team members, providing feedback and ensuring best practices are followed. You will be the go-to expert not just for new avionics designs, but also for securing approval for innovations and new components.

Your expertise will not only influence the final architectural solutions but also play a pivotal role in supporting the company's growth trajectory by ensuring that robust, compliant, and innovative avionics systems are at the heart of every launch.

**WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO**
- Drive the design and testing of avionics components for the Electron launch vehicle.
- Design and develop electronic circuits and PCBs that meet mission-critical and safety-critical standards.
- Develop and implement test systems and software for avionics projects.
- Secure design approvals for new avionics components and systems.
- Mentor and guide junior engineers, assisting with project management and ensuring adherence to best practices.
- Adapt vehicle structure effectively in response to component changes, contributing to architectural solutions.
- Focus on ramping up production support, with a heavy emphasis on documentation.
- Ensure all designs and systems comply with IEEE standards, NASA, and FAI regulations, maintaining high standards in a highly regulated environment.

**YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS**:

- Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related engineering discipline.
- Proven PCB design and development experience.
- Over 5 years of experience in hardware development or electronics test engineering.
- Proven experience in designing hardware from concept through to production.
- Ability to mentor junior team members by providing guidance, support, and constructive feedback, fostering their professional growth.

**THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE**:

- Proficiency in Altium, at an intermediate or advanced level.
- Strong understanding of electronic circuits, design principles, and SMT manufacturing techniques.
- Experience with environmental design testing, including vibration, shock, thermal, and TVAC.
- Familiarity with interfaces and sensors, including power supplies, oscilloscopes, serial devices, and instrumentation.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to create materials for distribution to external parties.
- Knowledge of NX, SolidWorks, or other 3D CAD systems.
- Demonstrated ability to thrive in fast-paced project environments.
- Programming experience in Python and/or C/C++.

**WHAT 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