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Rocket Lab is seeking an Avionics Project Engineer to join the Electron rocket programme. You will plan, coordinate, and deliver engineering changes to Electron's avionics hardware—including flight computers, harnesses, sensors, and safety systems—ensuring smooth introduction into production and adherence to schedules.
Working within the Avionics Development engineering team and collaborating closely with Supply Chain and Production, you will own configuration and master data for avionics assemblies. Your responsibilities include scoping changes, managing resources, executing to quality standards required for mission success, and maintaining EBOM and MBOM configuration control.
Key responsibilities:
- Plan and coordinate engineering change projects from scoping through production introduction
- Own schedule, resourcing, and quality outcomes for assigned changes; escalate risks early
- Support the engineering change approval process, including scoping, resource estimation, and cost/benefit assessments
- Maintain EBOM and MBOM configuration control, including master data, effectivity, drawing release, and accountability checks
- Verify design data accuracy and completeness before release to Supply Chain and Manufacturing
- Support Engineering, Production, and Supply Chain in resolving technical and schedule issues
- Identify and drive configuration management process improvements to support increasing production and launch cadence
- Communicate project status, risks, and decisions clearly to engineering and leadership stakeholders
This role suits someone who takes ownership of problems, is detail-oriented, highly organized, and comfortable moving fast across multiple concurrent projects. Rocket Lab operates at high velocity with constant change.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechatronics, Aerospace, or related Engineering field
- 1+ years' experience in an engineering, manufacturing, or project environment
- Working knowledge of engineering design, CAD, and manufacturing processes
- Basic understanding of avionics or electronics hardware (e.g., reading schematics, electrical systems)
- Experience with PDM/PLM tools such as Teamcenter and CAD file databases
- Understanding of engineering change management and configuration management practices
- Ability to work under pressure, manage competing priorities, and meet tight deadlines
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to build effective working relationships across teams
BONUS QUALIFICATIONS:
- Familiarity with part numbering and revision schemes associated with engineering change
- Project management experience (formal or on-the-job)
- ERP system experience
- Exposure to avionics or electrical hardware in a production or test environment
NOTE: For New Zealand-based roles, background checks including nationality checks will be conducted. Candidates must be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by ITAR. Eligibility typically requires citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, EU member states, or NATO countries, without ineligible dual citizenship.
