Senior Ground Systems Engineer - Mechanical

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space company dedicated to designing and manufacturing rockets, spacecraft, and vital subsystems that enable global connectivity, protection, and humanity’s expansion to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. Operating swiftly, we develop tangible hardware for impactful missions, transforming challenging goals into routine accomplishments. Join us to help shape the future.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Senior Ground Systems Engineer - Mechanical to join our innovative team. The role involves the design, fabrication, testing, and commissioning of critical ground support systems for our Electron and Neutron launch vehicles through all mission phases from production to orbit. This is a hands-on position requiring collaboration with suppliers, technicians, and cross-functional teams to deliver dependable and efficient solutions ready to support space missions.

Key Responsibilities

• Design launch vehicle transporters, erectors, launchers, spacecraft handling gear, and ground support tools.
• Develop and optimize fluid systems including cryogenic applications prioritizing safety and performance.
• Perform structural design and analysis suited for environments with high vibration and hazards.
• Create detailed 2D and 3D models utilizing CAD tools like SolidWorks and NX.
• Conduct system sizing and analytical calculations using numerical and hand methods.
• Maintain Bills of Materials and interface control documentation accurately.
• Coordinate closely with suppliers and internal teams to ensure compliance with specifications.
• Provide operational support by working with test and operations teams to ensure system functionality during missions.
• Assist pad technicians remotely and onsite during installation, commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting activities.
• Develop and execute comprehensive test plans to validate system and vehicle compatibility.
• Design and upkeep of test equipment dedicated to ground system validation.
• Analyze data following flights and tests to propose system improvements.
• Lead projects for facility and equipment builds, overseeing on-time and on-budget delivery.
• Support certification processes for launch pad infrastructure and establish maintenance protocols.
• Identify potential risks and implement mitigation strategies to ensure project success.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or an equivalent field.
• A minimum of six years’ experience in engineering design, testing, or operations within aerospace or industrial sectors.
• Proficiency in CAD software such as SolidWorks and EPDM.
• Ability to excel in a fast-moving, self-directed work environment.
• Experience mentoring junior engineers effectively.

Preferred Skills

• Background in launch pad systems or similar industries like oil and gas, mining, or process engineering.
• Advanced skills in structural design and analysis.
• Familiarity with fluid systems including sizing calculations and P&ID development.
• Understanding of industrial machinery and equipment.
• Experience with NX and Teamcenter software platforms.
• Knowledge of relevant standards such as ASME, ASTM, and NASA ground system guidelines.

Work Culture and Values

Rocket Lab thrives on dedication, innovation, collaboration, and resilience. Our team faces challenges head-on, supports each other, and maintains focus on delivering results swiftly and efficiently. We foster a no-ego environment where all hands contribute to successes big and small, working robustly to meet demanding deadlines.

Important Compliance and Equal Opportunity Information

For US-based applicants: Compliance with US Government space technology export regulations (ITAR) is mandatory. Eligibility requires U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residency, refugee or asylum status, or valid authorizations from relevant US government departments.

For New Zealand-based applicants: Security background checks and nationality verification are necessary due to ITAR regulations. Eligibility generally requires citizenship from Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the EU, NATO countries, or restrictions on dual citizenship apply.

Rocket Lab is committed to equal employment opportunities without discrimination or harassment on any protected characteristic, covering all employment terms and conditions. Reasonable accommodations are provided for candidates with disabilities during hiring.