HITL Engineer

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

SPACE SYSTEMS

Rocket Lab's Space Systems team is responsible for every satellite and satellite component made by Rocket Lab: from complete satellites destined for missions to the Moon and Mars, to the individual components and subsystems that make up a satellite like solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels and star trackers, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team is made up of engineers, technicians, and designers who design, create, and put together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defense sectors, or who build and assemble satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions.

HITL ENGINEER I

Based out of Rocket Lab's global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the HITL Engineer I is responsible for designing, maintaining, and operating hardware in the loop (HITL) systems. You will support the HITL Manager, Shared Services and Space Systems organization, with deliverables requested by internal leadership, board of directors, and investors.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

1. Design, operate, and maintain the HITL systems for the Rocket Lab spacecraft buses
2. Work hands-on with test and flight hardware
3. Work in a cross-disciplinary team to verify the functionality and performance of the Rocket Lab spacecraft buses
4. Operate launch vehicle simulation platform for Day of Launch operations for specific missions
5. Make and maintain accurate technical documentation via system diagrams, schematics, ICDs, procedures, test/anomaly reports
6. Analyze test results from raw data for pass/fail criteria
7. Troubleshoot root cause from anomalies and communicate the results and path forward with internal team, vendors, and customers
8. Provide critical review for test plans, procedures, and documentation
9. Operate and capture data from test equipment (DMMs, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, spectrum analyzers, etc.)

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS HITL ENGINEER I:

1. Bachelor's degree in mechatronics, electronics, computer science, aerospace engineering, or related field
2. Engineering experience with hardware or software development
3. Experience with electronics testing
4. Experience with designing and implementing electronics test systems

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

1. Master's or PhD in mechatronics, electronics, computer science, aerospace engineering, or related field
2. Ability to understand and create technical documentation via system diagrams, schematics, ICDs, procedures, test/anomaly reports
3. Theoretical and practical understanding of electronic systems
4. Ability to work under pressure and adhere to tight deadlines
5. Familiarity with RS485/422/232, CAN, LVDS protocols
6. Familiarity with CAD for test fixture and support equipment layout and design
7. Strong understanding of sensors, signal conditioning, and data acquisition electronics
8. Ethernet TCP/IP networking experience: switching, routing and subnetting
9. RF Systems experience
10. Strong communication skills
11. Ability to be self-motivated
12. Exposure to spacecraft systems or similar highly complex and autonomous systems
13. Experience with PLCs, relays, and power systems
14. Experience with Python, C++, Linux, CI/CD, Git, NX, VeSys, RapidHarness, SolidWorks
15. Previous HIL/PIL experience

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

1. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
2. Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
3. Must be physically able to commute to buildings.
4. Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise.

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, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.