Senior Manager, Test Site Operations

Back to jobs New Senior Manager, Test Site Operations Stennis Space Center, MS Apply 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! 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! SENIOR MANAGER, TEST SITE OPERATIONS The role of the Senior Manager, 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 computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.   Must be physically able to commute to buildings  Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise.  Ability to work extended hours or weekends as needed for mission critical deadlines.   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.     Important information: 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. Learn more about ITAR here . 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. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com. This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.   FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY: For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant.  These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.  Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality.  For more information on these Regulations, click here  ITAR Regulations.   Apply for this job * indicates a required field First Name * Last Name * Email * Phone * Resume/CV * Attach Attach Dropbox Google Drive Enter manually Enter manually Accepted file types: pdf, doc, docx, txt, rtf Cover Letter Attach Attach Dropbox Google Drive Enter manually Enter manually Accepted file types: pdf, doc, docx, txt, rtf Education School Select... 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