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Overview
Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more. The goal is to open access to space and enable missions in scientific exploration, Earth observation, climate change initiatives, security, and new technology demonstrations.
Neutron is a medium-lift launch vehicle designed for tomorrow’s mega-constellations, high-assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a reusable launch platform, Neutron aims to provide cost-effective and reliable launches, leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven Electron program execution history.
This opportunity is for a Senior / Principal Propulsion Engineer who will contribute to the Archimedes Engine family as part of the Neutron program, taking ownership of subsystems, driving design, analysis, testing, and operational readiness.
Senior / Principal Propulsion Engineer The role involves development, testing, and operation of propulsion hardware and engine systems. You will execute testing campaigns, analyze data, improve evaluation capabilities, and refine designs for reliability and vehicle operations. Principal Engineers will also drive value across teams and contribute to broader program success.
What you’ll get to do
Design, analyze, test, fly, and refly next propulsion hardware to ensure operational readiness and flight success.
Develop and execute test plans, including qualification and acceptance testing, and conduct post-test data reviews to refine designs and processes.
Collaborate across engineering disciplines to optimize engine performance, reliability, and manufacturability.
Generate high-level plans and prioritize tasks across teams, resolving competing priorities and aligning with program goals.
Mentor and guide engineers, fostering technical growth and collaboration.
Work with manufacturing, testing and vehicle operation teams to support engine needs, operation, and issues across the engine lifecycle.
(This position can be hired as a Senior Propulsion Engineer I, II or Principal Propulsion Engineer)
You’ll bring these qualifications SENIOR PROPULSION ENGINEER I
Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
5+ years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations.
Strong understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, cryogenic systems, and rocket engine architecture.
Familiarity with engine P&IDs, fluid system routing, and hotfire data reviews.
SENIOR PROPULSION ENGINEER II
Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
8+ years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations.
Strong understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, cryogenic systems, and rocket engine architecture.
Familiarity with engine P&IDs, fluid system routing, and hotfire data reviews.
PRINCIPAL PROPULSION ENGINEER
Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
12+ years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations.
Strong understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, cryogenic systems, and rocket engine architecture.
Familiarity with engine P&IDs, fluid system routing, and hotfire data reviews.
Nice to have
Advanced degree in a fluid mechanics-heavy field.
Experience with ox-rich staged combustion systems and methyl/LOX propellants.
Background in failure analysis, combustion dynamics, turbopump mechanics, and hydraulics.
Familiarity with reusable rocket engine systems and test/launch facility operations.
Experience with best practices for design, qualification, and production.
Additional requirements
Ability to travel to test and launch facilities (~25%).
Flexibility to work extended hours or weekends as needed.
Vision requirements: close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to focus.
Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise.
Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis based on job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience.
Base salary and benefits Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a benefits package including top-tier medical options, dental and vision coverage, paid time off, holidays, retirement plan options, and other perks.
Base Pay Range (CA Only) $116,000—$225,000 USD
What to expect We are on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth. This requires hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and a commitment to achieving what others deem impossible. We pride ourselves on collaboration, accountability, and delivering under pressure and tight deadlines.
Important information for candidates FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or otherwise eligible to obtain required authorizations. ITAR information is available here.
Rocket Lab is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants during the application process.
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY: Background checks may be undertaken prior to employment offers. Some regulatory requirements apply for access to restricted equipment and data under ITAR regulations. Citizenship requirements may apply for certain regions.
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Neutron is a medium-lift launch vehicle designed for tomorrow’s mega-constellations, high-assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a reusable launch platform, Neutron aims to provide cost-effective and reliable launches, leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven Electron program execution history.
This opportunity is for a Senior / Principal Propulsion Engineer who will contribute to the Archimedes Engine family as part of the Neutron program, taking ownership of subsystems, driving design, analysis, testing, and operational readiness.
Senior / Principal Propulsion Engineer The role involves development, testing, and operation of propulsion hardware and engine systems. You will execute testing campaigns, analyze data, improve evaluation capabilities, and refine designs for reliability and vehicle operations. Principal Engineers will also drive value across teams and contribute to broader program success.
What you’ll get to do
Design, analyze, test, fly, and refly next propulsion hardware to ensure operational readiness and flight success.
Develop and execute test plans, including qualification and acceptance testing, and conduct post-test data reviews to refine designs and processes.
Collaborate across engineering disciplines to optimize engine performance, reliability, and manufacturability.
Generate high-level plans and prioritize tasks across teams, resolving competing priorities and aligning with program goals.
Mentor and guide engineers, fostering technical growth and collaboration.
Work with manufacturing, testing and vehicle operation teams to support engine needs, operation, and issues across the engine lifecycle.
(This position can be hired as a Senior Propulsion Engineer I, II or Principal Propulsion Engineer)
You’ll bring these qualifications SENIOR PROPULSION ENGINEER I
Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
5+ years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations.
Strong understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, cryogenic systems, and rocket engine architecture.
Familiarity with engine P&IDs, fluid system routing, and hotfire data reviews.
SENIOR PROPULSION ENGINEER II
Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
8+ years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations.
Strong understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, cryogenic systems, and rocket engine architecture.
Familiarity with engine P&IDs, fluid system routing, and hotfire data reviews.
PRINCIPAL PROPULSION ENGINEER
Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
12+ years of experience in rocket engine development, testing, or operations.
Strong understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, cryogenic systems, and rocket engine architecture.
Familiarity with engine P&IDs, fluid system routing, and hotfire data reviews.
Nice to have
Advanced degree in a fluid mechanics-heavy field.
Experience with ox-rich staged combustion systems and methyl/LOX propellants.
Background in failure analysis, combustion dynamics, turbopump mechanics, and hydraulics.
Familiarity with reusable rocket engine systems and test/launch facility operations.
Experience with best practices for design, qualification, and production.
Additional requirements
Ability to travel to test and launch facilities (~25%).
Flexibility to work extended hours or weekends as needed.
Vision requirements: close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to focus.
Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise.
Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis based on job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience.
Base salary and benefits Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a benefits package including top-tier medical options, dental and vision coverage, paid time off, holidays, retirement plan options, and other perks.
Base Pay Range (CA Only) $116,000—$225,000 USD
What to expect We are on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth. This requires hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and a commitment to achieving what others deem impossible. We pride ourselves on collaboration, accountability, and delivering under pressure and tight deadlines.
Important information for candidates FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or otherwise eligible to obtain required authorizations. ITAR information is available here.
Rocket Lab is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants during the application process.
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY: Background checks may be undertaken prior to employment offers. Some regulatory requirements apply for access to restricted equipment and data under ITAR regulations. Citizenship requirements may apply for certain regions.
#J-18808-Ljbffr