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Rocket Lab is seeking a Senior Avionics Automation Test Engineer II to join the Space Systems team at their Long Beach headquarters. This role focuses on automating and improving testing efficiency for avionics and completed satellites used in missions ranging from interplanetary exploration to national security initiatives.
You will architect and lead deployment of Rocket Lab's internal test automation platform for future spacecraft programs, owning test automation for Assembly, Integration and Test (AIT) team campaigns across the entire program lifecycle. Key responsibilities include developing, reviewing, and maintaining automated test processes for spacecraft hardware and software validation while establishing best practices and coding standards. You'll integrate and automate test equipment and spacecraft interfaces into the test platform, making architectural decisions on telemetry, command, and data management. Additionally, you'll contribute to core platform development, including backend services and test framework capabilities.
Required qualifications include 8+ years of experience in space systems (ideally with spacecraft test, systems, or spacecraft software background) and 8+ years of professional programming experience with Python or similar languages in distributed application contexts. You must have strong Linux systems knowledge and command-line proficiency, experience mentoring and providing technical leadership to other engineers, and a Bachelor's degree in engineering or other technical discipline. Willingness to obtain and maintain a top secret clearance is required.
Desirable qualifications include an existing secret or top secret clearance, production experience with Python backend development, hands-on experience with RobotFramework or similar test automation frameworks, experience with Docker and Kubernetes, networking and IT infrastructure knowledge, CI/CD pipeline experience, and familiarity with spacecraft communication protocols and bus interfaces.
Compensation includes competitive base pay plus company stock as part of the total compensation package, an industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program with 15% discount, top-tier medical plans, dental and vision coverage, and paid vacation.
