Space Talent
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 rockethas 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.
SPACE SYSTEMS
At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.
Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.
PROPULSION SYSTEMS ENGINEER I/II PIPELINE We are currently seeking
Propulsion Systems Engineers I/II
for future opportunities for our systems engineering teams based out of Long Beach, CA. Propulsion Systems Engineers are responsible for system-level and component-level ownership of space systems propulsion and fluidic development. These teams support our Space Systems division, and lead cutting-edge programs for civil, commercial, and defense customers. Systems engineers are responsible for the development and maintenance of technical budgets, requirements definition, test planning and execution, and overall management of the systems engineering process. They also work hands-on with flight hardware, and drive the technical development of our Space Systems missions.
(Please note: this position can be hired at the Propulsion Systems Engineer I or Propulsion Systems Engineer II level)
WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:
Technical problem solving, review, and documentation
Manage technical risk within the individual’s scope
Communicate effectively with leadership and other team members
Own project requirements
Design, analyze, test, and fly next generation propulsion and fluidics hardware
Report on design, analysis, and test findings
Work with an experienced team of propulsion experts to develop high performance, reliable, and low-cost hardware
Work with manufacturing teams to support fabrication, design for manufacturability, and resolve issues that may arise during hardware build
Communicate with vendors to ensure system requirements are met
QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS PROPULSION SYSTEMS ENGINEER I:
Bachelor’s degree in engineering (software, computer, electrical, aerospace, mechanical, or other technical engineering discipline)
Engineering experience in the aerospace industry
Experience with end-to-end rocket engine or spacecraft propulsion system development and operation
Experience working on propulsion systems utilizing different storable propellants, such as electrical and chemical
U.S. citizenship required, due to program requirements
QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS PROPULSION SYSTEMS ENGINEER II:
Bachelor’s degree in engineering (software, computer, electrical, aerospace, mechanical, or other technical engineering discipline)
2+ years of engineering experience in the aerospace industry
Experience with end-to-end rocket engine or spacecraft propulsion system development and operation
Experience working on propulsion systems utilizing different storable propellants, such as electrical and chemical
U.S citizenship required due to program requirements
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
Knowledge of heat transfer, fluids, and structural mechanics
Fundamental understanding of mechanical design principles
Siemens NX and Teamcenter proficiency
Experience with Jama or other requirements management software
Experience with GD&T and engineering drawings
Familiarity with NI software and instrumentation hardware
Experience with testing and troubleshooting flight hardware
Strong understanding of systems engineering, hardware development processes, and configuration management
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.
Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.
Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.
Base Pay Range (CA Only) $80,000 — $130,000 USD
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 ITAR, Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations. 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.
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.
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:
For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers. You may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of allowed countries under ITAR regulations.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Our Electron rockethas 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.
SPACE SYSTEMS
At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.
Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.
PROPULSION SYSTEMS ENGINEER I/II PIPELINE We are currently seeking
Propulsion Systems Engineers I/II
for future opportunities for our systems engineering teams based out of Long Beach, CA. Propulsion Systems Engineers are responsible for system-level and component-level ownership of space systems propulsion and fluidic development. These teams support our Space Systems division, and lead cutting-edge programs for civil, commercial, and defense customers. Systems engineers are responsible for the development and maintenance of technical budgets, requirements definition, test planning and execution, and overall management of the systems engineering process. They also work hands-on with flight hardware, and drive the technical development of our Space Systems missions.
(Please note: this position can be hired at the Propulsion Systems Engineer I or Propulsion Systems Engineer II level)
WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:
Technical problem solving, review, and documentation
Manage technical risk within the individual’s scope
Communicate effectively with leadership and other team members
Own project requirements
Design, analyze, test, and fly next generation propulsion and fluidics hardware
Report on design, analysis, and test findings
Work with an experienced team of propulsion experts to develop high performance, reliable, and low-cost hardware
Work with manufacturing teams to support fabrication, design for manufacturability, and resolve issues that may arise during hardware build
Communicate with vendors to ensure system requirements are met
QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS PROPULSION SYSTEMS ENGINEER I:
Bachelor’s degree in engineering (software, computer, electrical, aerospace, mechanical, or other technical engineering discipline)
Engineering experience in the aerospace industry
Experience with end-to-end rocket engine or spacecraft propulsion system development and operation
Experience working on propulsion systems utilizing different storable propellants, such as electrical and chemical
U.S. citizenship required, due to program requirements
QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS PROPULSION SYSTEMS ENGINEER II:
Bachelor’s degree in engineering (software, computer, electrical, aerospace, mechanical, or other technical engineering discipline)
2+ years of engineering experience in the aerospace industry
Experience with end-to-end rocket engine or spacecraft propulsion system development and operation
Experience working on propulsion systems utilizing different storable propellants, such as electrical and chemical
U.S citizenship required due to program requirements
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
Knowledge of heat transfer, fluids, and structural mechanics
Fundamental understanding of mechanical design principles
Siemens NX and Teamcenter proficiency
Experience with Jama or other requirements management software
Experience with GD&T and engineering drawings
Familiarity with NI software and instrumentation hardware
Experience with testing and troubleshooting flight hardware
Strong understanding of systems engineering, hardware development processes, and configuration management
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.
Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.
Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.
Base Pay Range (CA Only) $80,000 — $130,000 USD
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 ITAR, Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations. 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.
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.
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:
For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers. You may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of allowed countries under ITAR regulations.
#J-18808-Ljbffr