Volunteer Lab Test Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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/II 

Based out of Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Integration & Test Engineer I/II 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. 

(Please note: this position can be hired at the Integration & Test Engineer I or Integration & Test Engineer II level) 

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 

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS INTEGRATION & TEST ENGINEER II: 

• US citizenship is required, due to program requirements 
• Bachelor's degree in electrical, electronics, mechatronics, aerospace, or other engineering degree 
• 2+ years of 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 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• Ability to travel up to 25%, both domestic and international, to support spacecraft integration and test activities
• Sit at desk and operate computer, keyboard and office equipment for extended periods
• Use hands with dexterity to operate controls, tools and technical equipment, as needed
• Read technical documents, drawings, and computer screens requiring close and distance vision
• Move between buildings, labs, and work areas, as needed
• Work in office and technical environments with occasional exposure to noise, dust and fumes in production areas