Avionics Design Engineer I

Rocketlab · Auckland, NZ · Engineering

Posted 2026-09-05

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NEUTRON

Rocket Lab’s Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket, Neutron, and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutron’s structures and components to firing up its new Archimedes engines, to setting up Neutron’s launch pads and test sites across the United States, joining the Neutron team is your opportunity to help launch a new large rocket for the very first time.

Join the Neutron Avionics Hardware team and play a crucial role in developing the next generation of launch vehicle technology. We're looking for a talented engineer to take ownership of mission-critical avionics components from initial concept through production readiness for the Neutron launch vehicle.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

Own and lead avionics components and subsystems, serving as the first point of contact in your area of responsibility

Execute full lifecycle development of electronic components - from requirements gathering and prototyping through debugging, schematic capture, PCB layout, board bring-up, mechanical integration, testing, and production implementation

Design and test digital, power, and analog sensing circuits for harsh aerospace environments

Develop and execute test campaigns for avionics components, including computing modules and high-voltage systems, ensuring all requirements are fully met

Create automation software in Python and C/C++ to interact with units-under-test, automated test equipment, and production ERP systems

Conduct critical analyses, including FMECA, derating, root-cause analysis for component failures, and risk assessments with mitigation strategies

Collaborate cross-functionally with teams across the company to achieve ambitious program goals

Review and approve engineering changes, schematics, PCB designs, test documentation, and other technical documents

Develop documentation for test procedures, maintenance, and calibration of new systems while providing training and ongoing support

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related discipline

1+ years of experience with electronics hardware development from concept through production

Strong understanding of instrumentation, interfaces, and sensors, including power supplies, serial devices, switch topologies, accelerometers, thermocouples, RTDs, and 4-20mA sensors

Hands-on proficiency with lab test equipment, including power supplies, oscilloscopes, electronic loads, DMMs, function generators, and process calibrators

Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal

Ownership mentality with the ability to drive tasks and projects to completion independently

Problem-solving mindset with the ability to identify challenges and develop solutions that improve cost, quality, reliability, and delivery

Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as needed

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

Experience with environmental testing, including vibration, shock, thermal, EMI/EMC, and TVAC

Proficiency in Altium Designer

Programming experience with Python, C, and C++

If the above sounds like you, apply now!

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