Team Lead - Space Systems Avionics Components Auckland, New Zealand

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! Rocket Lab Space Systems started with the CAPSTONE mission in support of NASA’s Artemis program, launching a satellite into a unique Near Rectilinear Halo Orbit around the moon. Then we became just the second company to successfully complete reentry from orbit, enabling microgravity manufacturing for the first time. Soon we’re going to Mars! Designing and building spacecraft to undertake a groundbreaking science mission with the University of California Berkeley and NASA. We manufacture bespoke satellites for highly complex missions, through to entire constellations. And we’re unique in offering vertical integration with our in-house satellite components too. This means we can move fast, design and build components exactly the way we want them, and constantly innovate. Our Space Systems team does the impossible, taking on the most challenging and rewarding missions - and we’re only just getting started!

TEAM LEAD – AVIONICS COMPONENTS

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Team Lead for Space Systems Components to join our dynamic engineering team. In this role, you will lead the strategic planning, design, development, testing, and implementation of advanced avionics systems. You will leverage your technical expertise and leadership acumen to guide a multidisciplinary team that includes experts in Mechatronics, Mechanisms, Electrical, and Control Engineering disciplines, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

The successful candidate will coordinate closely with cross-functional teams to ensure the seamless integration of avionics components into spacecraft. You will be responsible for developing and maintaining project schedules and deliverables, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, providing technical insights to senior leadership, and driving engineering best practices.

• Develop avionics components and architectures through the full lifecycle – from requirements, through R&D prototyping, to production implementation.
• Use all available information and data to manage technical risks to avionics components, including assessments of probability and consequence.
• Lead the root-cause analysis into anomalies and failures in avionics components, and supervise small teams to solve significant engineering challenges.
• Support the development of engineering and business processes to sustain Rocket Lab growth and capability.
• Contribute to the development of engineering best practices, including R&D, design for manufacture, and engineering change.

YOU'LL BRING THESE SKILLS:

• Technical Leadership and Expertise : Hands-on engineering and technical leadership experience, particularly in developing avionics hardware and providing subject matter expertise throughout the full lifecycle of components, from requirements through R&D prototyping and production implementation.
• Risk Management and Problem Solving : Proven ability to manage technical risks using assessments of probability and consequence, and lead root-cause analysis into anomalies and failures in avionics components, driving solutions to significant engineering challenges.
• Design and Development : Strong skills in overseeing and reviewing the design of electronic boards, performing design analyses and validations, and assessing new technologies to generate technology pipelines and support strategic development.
• Process Improvement : Experience in supporting the development of engineering and business processes, contributing to engineering best practices in areas such as R&D, design for manufacture, and engineering change to support organizational growth and capability.
• Team Leadership and Mentorship : Demonstrated ability in managing and mentoring a multidisciplinary team, providing support to ensure motivation, effectiveness, and efficiency, and fostering opportunities for professional development and coaching for personal objectives.

If the above sounds like you apply now!

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. #J-18808-Ljbffr