Junior Ground Systems Engineer (Instrumentation & Control)

Location: Auckland, New Zealand; onsite work at the Auckland Production Complex Office

Company

hirify.global is an end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems for space missions.

What you will do

• Maintain and extend control systems for launch vehicle transporters, erectors, launchers, and propulsion test stands.
• Develop software features under the guidance of a solution architect.
• Support installation, commissioning, testing, troubleshooting, and system operation on-site and remotely.
• Execute test plans, validate system performance and vehicle interfaces, and analyse post-flight and post-test data.
• Collaborate with test, operations, Flight Software, Guidance and Control, Databases, Operational Software, and Analysis teams.
• Create interface control, software design, functional requirements, and architecture documentation while supporting launch pad certification and maintenance programs.

Requirements

• Degree in mechatronics, software, or a related engineering discipline.
• Ability to apply engineering concepts and theory to hands-on systems.
• Interest in instrumentation, automation, and control systems.
• Strong ownership, reliable delivery, and clear communication skills.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required.
• For New Zealand roles, nationality checks and background checks are required; eligibility to access ITAR-regulated equipment and data is required.

Nice to have

• Experience with PLCs using structured text, SCADA, LabVIEW, or similar control and data acquisition tools.
• Python or other scripting experience for automation or data analysis.
• Hands-on experience with sensors, actuators, or test equipment through internships, student projects, or personal builds.
• Exposure to aerospace, industrial automation, or other high-consequence engineering environments.

Culture & Benefits

• Work on real hardware and systems supporting Electron and Neutron launch vehicles.
• Collaborative environment across terrestrial software, flight software, guidance and control, database, operations, and analysis teams.
• Hands-on work during installation, commissioning, testing, project build phases, and launch pad maintenance.
• Culture focused on teamwork, ownership, innovation, tight deadlines, and continuous improvement.