Director, Test Site Operations

Director, Test Site Operations

Stennis Space Center, MS

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

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!

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 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

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

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.