Brand Designer

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space enterprise providing launch services, spacecraft design and manufacturing, satellite components, and related technologies to expand access to space. Our rockets and satellites enable critical missions in scientific exploration, Earth monitoring, climate action, national defense, and innovative aerospace technologies. Our Electron rocket is the second most frequent U.S. launcher yearly, having placed over 230 satellites in orbit, while we develop Neutron, a medium-lift reusable rocket for larger deployments. Our Space Systems division creates satellite payloads and components, supporting NASA lunar and Mars missions and instruments like the James Webb Space Telescope.

Marketing & Communications

The Marketing & Communications department crafts compelling narratives that translate complex aerospace technology into engaging stories across media relations, social platforms, events, videos, merchandise, and design. This team collaborates through the entire organization to communicate Rocket Lab’s visionary missions and innovations effectively.

Role Overview

We seek a skilled and imaginative Brand Designer to create impactful visual content—from mission badges and merchandise to presentations, event graphics, digital campaigns, and website materials. This position is based onsite in Auckland, New Zealand or Long Beach, California, working closely with the Brand Design Lead and cross-functional teams. The role requires rapid execution, clear communication, and independent project ownership from concept through completion.

Key Responsibilities

• Craft high-quality graphic materials for digital media, print, presentations, and events
• Develop visual concepts that simplify and engage with advanced aerospace technology
• Create branded visuals for product launches, missions, and corporate communications
• Assist in producing video content, motion graphics, and social media assets
• Handle multiple projects while ensuring brand consistency
• Collaborate with vendors and stakeholders to deliver merchandise, booths, websites, and printed collateral
• Contribute to evolving Rocket Lab’s visual brand identity
• Design mission patches, vehicle graphics, and unique aerospace-specific visuals
• Maintain organized asset libraries and design frameworks

Required Qualifications

• At least 5 years of professional graphic design experience combined with a bachelor’s degree or equivalent 9+ years total experience
• Expertise with Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign)
• A portfolio showcasing brand design proficiency
• Experience designing merchandise and managing vendor production processes
• Solid understanding of typography, layout, color theory, and visual hierarchy

Preferred Skills

• Background in aerospace, space, defense, or deep-technology sectors
• Knowledge of motion graphics, video editing, or 3D rendering software
• Familiarity with web design tools such as Figma or Sketch
• Experience with 3D modeling programs like Cinema 4D, Blender, or KeyShot
• Skills in designing for live events, exhibitions, or experiential marketing
• Understanding of photography direction and art direction for shoots
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Strong communication and presentation abilities
• Collaborative attitude and ability to take constructive feedback and iterate quickly
• Passion for storytelling and the ability to translate technical topics into compelling visuals

Work Environment

This role involves extended periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer use, and occasional exposure to moderate noise, dust, and fumes in production locations.

Additional Information

U.S. Applicants: For U.S.-based roles, candidates must comply with U.S. Government export regulations (ITAR). Eligibility requires U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residence, refugee/asylee status, or valid authorization from relevant U.S. agencies.

New Zealand Applicants: Background and nationality checks are mandatory due to ITAR regulations. Candidates must hold citizenship from approved countries including Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, EU member states, NATO nations, or face eligibility restrictions.

Rocket Lab is committed to equal employment opportunities and prohibits discrimination based on legally protected characteristics.