Team Lead - Electron Avionics Development (Fixed Term)

Confirmed live in the last 24 hours

Rocket Lab

Compensation

$150,000 - $200,000/year

Auckland, NZ

On-site

Posted February 26, 2026

Job Description

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.

The Avionics Development Team plays a critical role in the success of Rocket Lab’s Electron launch vehicle. We design, test, integrate, and configure the electrical systems and electronic hardware that form the backbone of Electron, ensuring every mission is a success. From flight computers to payload interfaces, our work drives the reliability and performance of Rocket Lab’s launches.

Now, we are looking for a Team Lead – Avionics Development to take the helmet of this critical team, combining technical expertise with people leadership to shape the future of Rocket Lab’s avionics systems.This will be a 1 year fixed term contract.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

As the Team Lead for Avionics Development, you will be the technical authority on avionics hardware while also leading, mentoring, and empowering a talented team of engineers. You will guide the design, testing, qualification, and technical architecture of Electron’s electrical and electronic hardware, delivering solutions that meet the highest standards of quality and reliability while supporting manufacturability, increased vehicle build rates, and program timelines.

In addition to technical leadership, you’ll play a key role in prioritizing projects and allocating resources to align with program milestones and company goals. Your ability to plan, organize, and communicate effectively will be critical to the team’s success.

This role spans a wide range of avionics systems, including (but not limited to):

Flight computers
Power electronic systems
High-voltage components
Flight Safety System (FSS) components
Engine avionics components
Payload interfaces

You will work collaboratively across engineering, manufacturing, and support teams to deliver cutting-edge solutions that drive mission success.

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING:

Taking technical ownership of Electron avionics hardware design and qualification
Ensuring the quality, reliability, and robustness of avionics components and systems in a fast-paced production environment
Identifying risks and implementing mitigation strategies to ensure program success
Leading, mentoring, and developing the Avionics Development Team
Planning and prioritizing work to meet program milestones
Collaborating across departments to solve complex challenges and deliver innovative solutions

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

A degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or a similar field.
5+ years’ experience within a high-performance industry environment (aerospace, aviation, automotive, marine or equivalent).
Proven track record of leading a team to deliver complete and successful engineering projects from conception to operation.
The ability to work to deadlines within a high-pressure environment.

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