Team Lead - Unpressurised Composite Structures

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a comprehensive space company pioneering the development of rockets, spacecraft, and essential subsystems that ensure global connectivity, security, and the advancement of human exploration to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. Our approach is swift and tangible, focusing on crafting substantial hardware for critical missions and making ambitious goals standard operations.

Neutron Program

Within Rocket Lab, the Neutron team drives the realization of the new large Neutron rocket, including its launch and test infrastructure. This involves designing and validating Neutron's structural elements and components, igniting its Archimedes engines, and establishing launch pads and test sites primarily in the United States. Joining this team offers the unique chance to contribute to the inaugural launch of a large rocket.

Role Overview: Team Lead - Unpressurized Composite Structures

The Mechanical workstream for Neutron spans various vehicle domains such as structural components like propellant tanks, interstage, and fairings; mechanical systems including stage separation, landing, and aerodynamic control; fluid and thermal systems dealing with propellant management, HVAC, and thermal protection.

In this position, you will lead a skilled group of mechanical development engineers, taking ownership from concept through to launch of critical mechanical systems. The ideal candidate thrives amidst ambiguity, embraces continuous learning, and is motivated to guide projects from early conceptualization to integration and launch.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the full lifecycle delivery of Neutron mechanical system(s), including conceptual design, critical reviews, development tests, qualification, integration, and operational assistance.
• Ensure engineering projects meet objectives by managing timelines, budgets, resource allocation, and technical risks efficiently.
• Collaborate across departments such as supply chain, quality assurance, and production, as well as with cross-functional teams like Fluids, Avionics, and Propulsion to prioritize program initiatives.
• Mentor and support direct reports, fostering motivation and effectiveness within the team.
• Coordinate among design, test, and analysis engineers to evolve concepts and work with manufacturing engineers to select materials and define optimized build processes.
• Identify and resolve technical challenges proactively to maintain project momentum.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• At least five years of experience in a high-performance industry such as aerospace, aviation, automotive, or marine sectors.
• Proven leadership in managing teams through successful engineering project delivery from inception through to operation.
• Capability to perform under tight deadlines in high-pressure environments.
• Strong communication skills and aptitude for building effective professional relationships.
• Experience addressing mechanical system challenges in areas including composite materials, moving mechanical assemblies, pressure vessels, aerodynamic control, fluid systems, or thermal protection.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with CAD tools like Siemens NX (preferred), Solidworks, CATIA, or equivalents.
• Experience using Product Lifecycle Management software such as Teamcenter (preferred), Windchill, or similar platforms.

Additional Information

The role demands dedication, innovation, and teamwork in a fast-paced environment with challenging deadlines. Rocket Lab values diversity and offers equal employment opportunities without discrimination based on various protected characteristics.

Important for U.S. Applicants: Complying with U.S. Government export regulations requires candidates to be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, or have authorized legal status to handle controlled technologies.

Important for New Zealand Applicants: Employment offers are subject to background checks including nationality verification in compliance with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Eligibility criteria include citizenship of specific countries or valid dual nationality according to regulations.