M&P Development Engineer II

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end aerospace company dedicated to building rockets, spacecraft, and essential subsystems that keep global connectivity and protection flowing while expanding humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We operate at high speed, manufacturing actual hardware for impactful missions and making the extraordinary routine. Join us to help shape the future.

Role Overview

The Neutron team at Rocket Lab is developing a new large rocket, Neutron, along with its launch and test facilities across the United States. The M&P (Materials & Processes) Development Engineer II plays a critical role in the design, testing, and qualification of materials and manufacturing processes for Neutron’s structures, handling both metals and composites.

Key Responsibilities

• Design components such as thermal protection systems, composites, metallic joints, and secondary structural parts, partnering with analysts to confirm structural and thermal requirements are met.
• Develop and qualify materials and manufacturing processes for both primary and secondary structures, including metallics, composites, adhesives, and coatings.
• Advise design teams on material choices and process recommendations to satisfy mechanical, thermal, and environmental criteria.
• Conduct material characterization and validate manufacturing procedures while overseeing operational practices.
• Create and maintain technical documentation, including material/process specifications, test reports, and procedural documents.
• Work collaboratively with suppliers and internal stakeholders to manage and enhance industry specifications and standards.
• Identify and address technical challenges proactively to support fast-paced development and production.
• Provide mentorship and technical support to junior engineers.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or equivalent fields.
• At least 2 years of experience in materials and processes engineering, preferably within aerospace or other high-reliability sectors.
• Proficiency with material characterization methods such as mechanical testing, microscopy, and nondestructive testing.
• Demonstrated experience in executing material and process qualification activities.
• Familiarity with CAD platforms, particularly NX (preferred), SolidWorks, or CATIA.
• Competence working efficiently under pressure and meeting tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively in team environments.
• Strong analytical capabilities with a broad perspective to connect information and make sound decisions.
• Motivation, resilience, and quick judgment skills to handle dynamic project demands.

Desirable Qualifications

• Solid understanding of composite materials engineering principles including mechanics of materials, classical lamination theory, and design best practices.
• Experience with structural modelling and analysis.
• Familiarity with aerospace-related domains such as cryogenic systems, thermal protection, pressurized systems, mechanical assemblies, fluid systems, or instrumentation and controls.
• Hands-on experience with composite manufacturing processes.

Additional Information

Rocket Lab upholds an inclusive work environment and is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants should be prepared for background screening and eligibility checks relevant to U.S. government space technology export regulations (ITAR). Eligibility for work in New Zealand requires citizenship in specific countries or eligibility under ITAR compliance rules.