Director, Test Site Operations

ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access space. 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 become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope. NEUTRON Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program. If you’re interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re-usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity! DIRECTOR, TEST SITE OPERATIONS The role of the Director, Test Site Operations is responsible for overseeing operations at Rocket Lab’s Test Facility on site at NASA Stennis Space Center. You will ultimately own all the test infrastructure and test operations spanning rocket engine development, stage systems development through to routine high-cadence production test operations at the site. Being a foundational role in a fast-moving organization, this role will need to wear many hats and take a hands-on approach to overseeing various projects through from infrastructure development, rocket engine test operations through to site administration and logistics. If you like making fire with a world-class high performing team, this role is for you. WHAT YOU’LL GET TO TO DO: Will lead and support a team of technical staff (engineers and technicians) for engine test operations, test stand build, engine assembly, operations and maintenance of test infrastructure. Will lead and mentor technical teams (engineers and technicians) in a high-pressure environment where cohesion and effective leadership are critical to mission success. Develop and maintain project and program plans, budgets and schedules and ensure successful delivery of key projects spanning multiple departments and engineering disciplines Manage external contractors and suppliers Continually improve test site infrastructure with the goal of multiple engine tests per day Oversee site administration, supply chain and logistics Ensure health and safety of the team YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering; or other technical discipline 10+ years of experience in Propulsion Engineering and/or Propulsion Test leadership Demonstrated experience supporting high paced technical projects THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: Masters or PhD in an engineering discipline Direct experience with liquid natural gas or liquid methane as a rocket propellant Background of technical expertise in sub-component to full flight system testing Software development for data acquisition and control systems Working knowledge of complex IT systems associated with propulsion testing ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus. Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate ... (truncated, view full listing at source)