Team Lead – Ground Systems Engineering

ENGINEERING

Engineering 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 Y

Take 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 field
• Over 6 years of experience in a relevant engineering discipline
• Exposure to engineering management, team leadership, or project management
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, autonomous environment

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience with launch pad systems or industry experience in oil and gas, processing, mining, or similar fields
• Familiarity with applying standards such as NASA, ASME, ASTM, IEC, or AS/NZS

Be part of our story, there’s not many like it! Apply today!