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!
ABOUT THE TEAM
Join Rocket Lab's Space Systems Propulsion team to lead the development and delivery of flight-ready space vehicle propulsion systems. Our in-house designs include the Curie and HyperCurie engines and the ESCAPADE spacecraft propulsion systems, with current focus on the Victus Haze mission. As a Propulsion Test and Operations Engineer II, your responsibilities include planning, executing, and reporting on tests such as engine hot fires, and supporting spacecraft propulsion operations both on the ground and in orbit. You will also handle test data analysis, facility upgrades, and component bench testing.
You'll collaborate closely with various teams, tackle engineering challenges, and ensure high-quality products. Success in this role requires strong technical and analytical skills, attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and a positive, proactive attitude.
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO
In this role, you'll take ownership of design and test specifications for both existing products and new developments, ensuring they meet company requirements. You will communicate design specifications for manufacturing, including materials, GD&T, and unique design parameters using drawings and referenced standards. You'll be responsible for planning, communicating, and verifying R&D, qualification, and acceptance test requirements through relevant engineering documents. You’ll collaborate closely with analysis, manufacturing, testing, and operations teams to ensure designs meet company standards. Additionally, you’ll define operational, testing, maintenance, repair, calibration, and environmental care information for the product lifecycle. If your focus is on testing, you'll perform development test operations and train relevant staff to maintain a high level of quality in test operations.
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS
- A strong enthusiasm for engineering, an inquisitive nature, and a readiness to learn.
- A degree in engineering and 3+ years of experience in propulsion systems or component development; or in a comparable high-performance field.
- An excellent understanding of engineering principles and a solid grasp of advanced rocket or spacecraft propulsion concepts.
- Experience in test planning, execution, data analysis, and reporting.
- Hands-on experience with mechanical or fluid instrumentation and testing.
- A proven history of independently delivering a complete and successful engineering project from conception to operation.
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE
- Engine, propulsion system, spacecraft, or otherwise hazardous proceduralized test or operations experience.
- Experience with instrumentation and data acquisition using National Instruments equipment and software.
- Hands on experience with propellants, rocket engines, fluid components such as regulators or valves, or spacecraft propulsion systems.
- System 1D modelling, Thermofluids analysis, or data analysis.
- Proficiency data manipulation and visualization in Python, MATLAB, or other tools.
- Masters or PHD.
ROCKET LAB EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
- The opportunity to work on innovative and ground-breaking technology
- Relocation support and visa sponsorship
- An employee stock purchase program
- Access to world leading experts to develop your career
- Unlimited barista coffee, fruit, and snacks
- Rocket Lab merchandise - T-shirts, mission patches etc.
- Discounted health insurance with Southern Cross
- Additional parental leave entitlements
- A vibrant team culture with social activities throughout the year
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.