Rocket Lab
Senior Spacecraft Thermal Engineer I/II Pipeline
Rocket Lab, Long Beach, California, us, 90899
Senior Spacecraft Thermal Engineer I/II Pipeline
Long Beach, CA 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 Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft and precision payloads to 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 to national security and defense initiatives, and collaborates with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. SENIOR SPACECRAFT THERMAL ENGINEER I/II PIPELINE We are currently seeking
Senior Spacecraft Thermal Engineers I/II
for future opportunities for our thermal engineering team based out of Long Beach. This team supports our Space System division and leads cutting-edge programs for civil, commercial, and defense customers. Spacecraft Thermal Engineers oversee the thermal design, analysis, testing, and validation of Rocket Lab’s space vehicles. They perform thermal modeling and data analysis while working closely with test and design engineers to capture the vehicle’s thermal performance and provide input for design improvements. Deliverables are prepared for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors. WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: Complete thermal modeling and analysis of vehicles Conduct thermal design trade studies that balance performance margins, resource use, risk, cost, and schedule Identify and resolve thermal design, acceptance, and performance issues for space vehicle components and assemblies Design and execute thermal tests for space vehicle components and assemblies Perform thermal model validation using test and in-flight data Liaise with all levels of program and engineering staff on thermal design and test matters, and support other teams/disciplines as necessary Identify and research potential vendors of thermal control materials NOTE:
this position can be hired at the Senior Spacecraft Thermal Engineer I or Senior Spacecraft Thermal Engineer II level. QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS SENIOR SPACECRAFT THERMAL ENGINEER I: Bachelor’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering; or other engineering degree 5+ years of experience in thermal engineering U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS SENIOR SPACECRAFT THERMAL ENGINEER II: Bachelor’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering; or other engineering degree 8+ years of thermal engineering experience U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: Master's or PhD in aerospace or mechanical engineering; or other engineering degree Strong background in heat transfer Experience with thermal systems and passive thermal management techniques Familiarity with Siemens NX and Teamcenter, including model interrogation and defeaturing for analyses Demonstrated experience with Thermal Desktop Experience with planning, execution, and data analysis of thermal balance tests Strong communication skills, both written and verbal Ability to work independently while building strong working relationships Experience with constant conductance and variable conductance heat pipes Experience with multi-layer insulation design, fabrication, installation, and test Experience with 0-D and 1-D thermal/fluid networks Familiarity with scripting languages such as Python and MATLAB Familiarity with thermal engineering tools such as NX Space Systems Thermal, ANSYS, SINDA, and THERMICA Knowledge of launch and on-orbit operations Familiarity with orbital mechanics and attitude dynamics related to thermal analysis 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 Base salary is $115,000 - $170,000 USD (CA). Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package; employees may also receive equity and a comprehensive benefits package. WHAT TO EXPECT We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth. This role requires hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, and a focus on delivering results under pressure and tight deadlines. FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY: To conform to ITAR, Rocket Lab employees must be a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident, or otherwise eligible to obtain required authorizations. Learn more about ITAR here. Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type. For candidates requiring accommodations, please contact the recruiter. EEO/Voluntary Self-Identification
- This section is included for legal compliance and may be removed from external postings in some jurisdictions. Completion is voluntary and confidential. Base Pay Range (CA Only): $115,000 - $170,000 USD
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Long Beach, CA 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 Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft and precision payloads to 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 to national security and defense initiatives, and collaborates with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. SENIOR SPACECRAFT THERMAL ENGINEER I/II PIPELINE We are currently seeking
Senior Spacecraft Thermal Engineers I/II
for future opportunities for our thermal engineering team based out of Long Beach. This team supports our Space System division and leads cutting-edge programs for civil, commercial, and defense customers. Spacecraft Thermal Engineers oversee the thermal design, analysis, testing, and validation of Rocket Lab’s space vehicles. They perform thermal modeling and data analysis while working closely with test and design engineers to capture the vehicle’s thermal performance and provide input for design improvements. Deliverables are prepared for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors. WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: Complete thermal modeling and analysis of vehicles Conduct thermal design trade studies that balance performance margins, resource use, risk, cost, and schedule Identify and resolve thermal design, acceptance, and performance issues for space vehicle components and assemblies Design and execute thermal tests for space vehicle components and assemblies Perform thermal model validation using test and in-flight data Liaise with all levels of program and engineering staff on thermal design and test matters, and support other teams/disciplines as necessary Identify and research potential vendors of thermal control materials NOTE:
this position can be hired at the Senior Spacecraft Thermal Engineer I or Senior Spacecraft Thermal Engineer II level. QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS SENIOR SPACECRAFT THERMAL ENGINEER I: Bachelor’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering; or other engineering degree 5+ years of experience in thermal engineering U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS SENIOR SPACECRAFT THERMAL ENGINEER II: Bachelor’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering; or other engineering degree 8+ years of thermal engineering experience U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE: Master's or PhD in aerospace or mechanical engineering; or other engineering degree Strong background in heat transfer Experience with thermal systems and passive thermal management techniques Familiarity with Siemens NX and Teamcenter, including model interrogation and defeaturing for analyses Demonstrated experience with Thermal Desktop Experience with planning, execution, and data analysis of thermal balance tests Strong communication skills, both written and verbal Ability to work independently while building strong working relationships Experience with constant conductance and variable conductance heat pipes Experience with multi-layer insulation design, fabrication, installation, and test Experience with 0-D and 1-D thermal/fluid networks Familiarity with scripting languages such as Python and MATLAB Familiarity with thermal engineering tools such as NX Space Systems Thermal, ANSYS, SINDA, and THERMICA Knowledge of launch and on-orbit operations Familiarity with orbital mechanics and attitude dynamics related to thermal analysis 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 Base salary is $115,000 - $170,000 USD (CA). Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package; employees may also receive equity and a comprehensive benefits package. WHAT TO EXPECT We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth. This role requires hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, and a focus on delivering results under pressure and tight deadlines. FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY: To conform to ITAR, Rocket Lab employees must be a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident, or otherwise eligible to obtain required authorizations. Learn more about ITAR here. Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type. For candidates requiring accommodations, please contact the recruiter. EEO/Voluntary Self-Identification
- This section is included for legal compliance and may be removed from external postings in some jurisdictions. Completion is voluntary and confidential. Base Pay Range (CA Only): $115,000 - $170,000 USD
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