Development Engineer II

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive aerospace company providing responsive launch solutions, spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, and satellite components. Our mission is to expand space accessibility to support pivotal scientific, environmental, defense, and technology demonstration missions worldwide. Our Electron rocket ranks as the second most launched U.S. vehicle yearly, having successfully deployed over 230 satellites, while we develop Neutron, a medium-lift, reusable rocket designed for launching large constellations. Our space systems division creates specialized satellites and components used in NASA missions to the Moon and Mars as well as on the James Webb Space Telescope.

About the Role

The Neutron Development Engineer contributes across multiple vehicle subsystems including structural (propellant tanks, interstage, fairings), mechanical (stage separation, landing systems, aerodynamic controls), fluid (pressurant, propellant management, ignition, HVAC), and thermal protection systems. This position involves conceptualizing and refining designs, collaborating closely with analyses and manufacturing specialists to produce detailed designs, drawings, and assemblies for both metallic and composite materials. You'll also be involved in development and qualification testing to validate materials and components against functional and performance criteria.

Key Responsibilities

• Create and iteratively improve structural and mechanical concepts for the Neutron launch vehicle using CAD software.
• Identify and resolve technical challenges proactively to ensure safe and efficient project advancement.
• Collaborate with seasoned engineers for continuous learning and development of technical and interpersonal skills.
• Prepare comprehensive drawing packages and technical documentation considering manufacturability throughout the design stages.
• Develop design documentation including FMEA, P&IDs, and interface control documents.
• Assist in defining design requirements.
• Support testing efforts for structural and mechanical components including composites and metals.
• Plan, oversee, and document test activities and results to verify requirements are met.
• Design and fabricate test jigs and fixtures to support component and assembly testing.

Candidate Profile

• Degree in aerospace, mechanical, or mechatronic engineering or equivalent.
• 3 to 5 years of experience designing high-performance mechanical systems.
• Proficient with CAD tools such as NX (preferred), Fibersim, Solidworks, or CATIA.
• Ability to perform well under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Strong communication skills and effective team collaboration abilities.
• Analytically minded with broad perspective to integrate information into sound decisions.
• Demonstrates tenacity, proactive mindset, and sound judgment in problem-solving.

Desirable Skills

• Experience in metallic or composite structural design.
• Knowledge of mechanical mechanisms and pressurized systems.
• Familiarity with fluid system designs.

Work Culture and Expectations

We strive to unlock space's potential to benefit Earth, requiring hard work, persistence, innovation, teamwork, and grit. Our culture promotes supporting colleagues, humbling ourselves, and relentlessly focusing on delivery despite challenges. We thrive under pressure and operate efficiently to tight schedules.

Additional Information - Compliance and Equal Opportunity

For US-based roles, applicants must meet government export control criteria due to ITAR regulations. Eligible candidates include US citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees or asylum holders, or those qualified for necessary state department authorizations.

Employment decisions are made without discrimination based on legally protected characteristics under US, state, or local laws, covering hiring, advancement, compensation, training, and workplace conduct.

Applicants requiring accommodations during the recruitment process due to disability should contact the designated coordinator for assistance.

For New Zealand positions, pre-employment background and nationality checks are conducted to ensure compliance with US ITAR export regulations. Eligibility requires citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the EU, NATO countries, or similar jurisdictions. Certain dual citizenships may disqualify candidates.