Rocket Lab
Overview
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 missions globally in scientific exploration, Earth observation, climate change mitigation, national security, and 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. Space Systems designs and builds our line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope. Neutron is a forthcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Neutron is a medium-lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program. This is an opportunity to join a high-performing team working on a clean-sheet development of a reusable liquid launch vehicle. Role
RECOVERY ENGINEER I/II The Recovery Engineer position will initially be based at Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA, or Middle River, MD. You will be responsible for the design and development of all Recovery assets needed to support Neutron Recovery. You will oversee Neutron Recovery program designs and hardware to enable development, testing, flight, and recovery. (This position can be hired at Recovery Engineer I or II level.) What you’ll get to do
Work as part of a team of engineers through the early stages of developing the Neutron Recovery program Own critical Recovery Subsystem designs, analysis, and other technical details as needed to support the team’s objectives Serve as technical expert for marine system designs and recovered flight hardware post-processing required for Neutron Recovery Develop technical details for Recovery designs including what hardware to build and how tests are performed to maximize resources toward progress on Neutron Collaborate with Rocket Lab Engineering teams to ensure all systems are operational to support Neutron Recovery Support Recovery system fabrication and testing both remotely and onsite as needed at Wallops Island and other facilities Qualifications
Recovery Engineer I Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, naval, marine, electrical, systems or aerospace engineering, or related field Past work experience, internships, or projects related to aerospace vehicles/payloads, automotive, aircraft, or marine assemblies Recovery Engineer II 2+ years professional experience in maritime or aerospace field Nice to have
Experience working with teams of engineers to successful outcomes on challenging projects with tight timelines and budgets Experience designing and building complex, multi-disciplinary systems including electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, fluids, or marine systems Self-motivated and detail-oriented with ongoing drive for continuous improvement Ability to work in fast-paced, high-stress and remote environments and to work autonomously Ability to prioritize work and make resource allocation recommendations involving risk and uncertainty Additional requirements
Ability to work in a high-concentration, high-stress environment; tolerance for short deadlines and extended hours Willing to support offshore operations, including recovery missions at sea averaging 5+ days per quarter Willing to work in extreme outdoor environments and in confined spaces, climb ladders, and handle hazardous materials Ability to perform duties requiring standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting, and lifting up to 25 lbs; ability to operate heavy machinery Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis based on job-related knowledge, education, and experience. Base salary is one component of our total rewards package, which may include equity and a benefits package. Salary Base pay range (MD only): $100,000 - $125,000 USD What to expect
We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth. This work requires hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and a commitment to achieving what others deem impossible. We pride ourselves on supporting one another and delivering under pressure to meet deadlines. Legal and Equal Employment Notices
For US-based roles: ITAR compliance requires citizenship or eligible residency; Rocket Lab is an equal employment opportunity employer. Applicants requiring accommodations may contact the recruiter. For NZ offices, background checks may be conducted in accordance with local requirements. This job posting may include standard candidate questions and voluntary self-identification of disability for government reporting purposes. Information provided in these sections is confidential and voluntary. Application process also includes a standard job application form. We may request additional information to complete the process.
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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 missions globally in scientific exploration, Earth observation, climate change mitigation, national security, and 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. Space Systems designs and builds our line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope. Neutron is a forthcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Neutron is a medium-lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program. This is an opportunity to join a high-performing team working on a clean-sheet development of a reusable liquid launch vehicle. Role
RECOVERY ENGINEER I/II The Recovery Engineer position will initially be based at Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA, or Middle River, MD. You will be responsible for the design and development of all Recovery assets needed to support Neutron Recovery. You will oversee Neutron Recovery program designs and hardware to enable development, testing, flight, and recovery. (This position can be hired at Recovery Engineer I or II level.) What you’ll get to do
Work as part of a team of engineers through the early stages of developing the Neutron Recovery program Own critical Recovery Subsystem designs, analysis, and other technical details as needed to support the team’s objectives Serve as technical expert for marine system designs and recovered flight hardware post-processing required for Neutron Recovery Develop technical details for Recovery designs including what hardware to build and how tests are performed to maximize resources toward progress on Neutron Collaborate with Rocket Lab Engineering teams to ensure all systems are operational to support Neutron Recovery Support Recovery system fabrication and testing both remotely and onsite as needed at Wallops Island and other facilities Qualifications
Recovery Engineer I Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, naval, marine, electrical, systems or aerospace engineering, or related field Past work experience, internships, or projects related to aerospace vehicles/payloads, automotive, aircraft, or marine assemblies Recovery Engineer II 2+ years professional experience in maritime or aerospace field Nice to have
Experience working with teams of engineers to successful outcomes on challenging projects with tight timelines and budgets Experience designing and building complex, multi-disciplinary systems including electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, fluids, or marine systems Self-motivated and detail-oriented with ongoing drive for continuous improvement Ability to work in fast-paced, high-stress and remote environments and to work autonomously Ability to prioritize work and make resource allocation recommendations involving risk and uncertainty Additional requirements
Ability to work in a high-concentration, high-stress environment; tolerance for short deadlines and extended hours Willing to support offshore operations, including recovery missions at sea averaging 5+ days per quarter Willing to work in extreme outdoor environments and in confined spaces, climb ladders, and handle hazardous materials Ability to perform duties requiring standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting, and lifting up to 25 lbs; ability to operate heavy machinery Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis based on job-related knowledge, education, and experience. Base salary is one component of our total rewards package, which may include equity and a benefits package. Salary Base pay range (MD only): $100,000 - $125,000 USD What to expect
We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth. This work requires hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and a commitment to achieving what others deem impossible. We pride ourselves on supporting one another and delivering under pressure to meet deadlines. Legal and Equal Employment Notices
For US-based roles: ITAR compliance requires citizenship or eligible residency; Rocket Lab is an equal employment opportunity employer. Applicants requiring accommodations may contact the recruiter. For NZ offices, background checks may be conducted in accordance with local requirements. This job posting may include standard candidate questions and voluntary self-identification of disability for government reporting purposes. Information provided in these sections is confidential and voluntary. Application process also includes a standard job application form. We may request additional information to complete the process.
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