Integration & Test Engineer I

ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity’s reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us. SPACE SYSTEMS At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.    INTEGRATION & TEST ENGINEER I Based out of Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Integration & Test Engineer I is responsible for the development, test, and deployment of flight spacecraft systems, as well as the development, maintenance, and upgrading of the test systems for that hardware. You will support the Space Systems organization, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors. WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: • Lead and own integration and test campaigns at various levels of spacecraft development • Work collaboratively with team members to define systems requirements, as well as verification and validation plans • Develop acceptance, qualification, and R&D test plans for spacecraft systems • Develop, maintain, and operate environmental test systems (Vibe, TVAC, Thermal, EMI, etc.) • Develop and maintain mechanical and electrical ground support equipment and facilities • Interface with ground test software and implement flight software configuration changes • Lead investigations into anomalous vehicle behavior • Interface with hardware-in-the-loop test systems QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS INTEGRATION & TEST ENGINEER I: • US citizenship is required, due to program requirements • Bachelor’s degree in electrical, electronics, mechatronics, aerospace, or other engineering degree • Engineering experience in the aerospace industry, as a test engineer or other hands-on engineering role • Proficiency with C, C++, Python, or MATLAB; and Windows 10 and Microsoft Office products • Experience in writing technical documentation, such as procedures, reports, and requirements THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: • Master’s or PhD in electrical, electronics, mechatronics, aerospace, or other engineering degree • Experience with environmental testing, such as thermal vacuum or random vibration testing • 4+ years of professional experience as a test engineer in the aerospace industry • Strong understanding of satellite subsystems (CDH, ADCS, EPS, and COMM) • Experience working in a clean room and with ESD-sensitive equipment • Hands-on experience using electrical test equipment (PSU, Oscilloscope, DMM, etc.) • Exposure to designing and implementing test systems for electronics • Understanding of sensors, signal conditioning and data acquisition electronics • Familiarity with spacecraft harness design and best practices • Experience with 3D CAD software, preferably NX • Experience with RF testing and hardware-in-the-loop testing • Basic knowledge of networking • Experience with Linux systems This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas. Join one of the world's fastest-growing space companies and own a piece of it. In addition to competitive base pay, you'll receive company stock as part of your total compensation package, giving you a direct stake in our success. As we expand to new launch sites, groundbreaking missions, and global markets, your ownership has the opportunity to grow alongside the company. Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock), top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution), dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Additional perks include subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers (where available), discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on our popular merch store, and a variety of other employee discounts. Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Base Pay Range (CA Only) $83,000—$114,000 USD 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 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,