Rocket Lab is a vertically integrated provider of small launch services, satellites, and spacecraft components. Our mission is to open access to space to improve life on Earth. Our team is over 1,800 people strong and we’re adding to it every week. Collaboration is at our core – every idea is heard, and everyone makes a difference. Teams are nimble, decisions are made quickly, and we are action oriented.

NEUTRON ROCKET

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program.

GROUND SYSTEMS MECHANICAL ENGINEER II

Based out of Rocket Lab's Test Facility at Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, the Ground System Mechanical Engineer is responsible for critical test facilities to support the Archimedes rocket engine and the Neutron launch vehicle. You will work from conceptual design through build-out and activation of a brand new, from the ground up test facility. You will support the Fluid Systems and Propulsion organizations through delivery of functional ground systems required to perform necessary hot fire tests and checkout functions to ensure successful development of engines and vehicle systems. You will become skilled in Test Operations roles and be expected to work independently in support of the overall test facility design, build and activation efforts.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

Design critical test infrastructure including development of process diagrams, fluid systems, structural systems and various subsystems using cryogenics, flammables and high-pressure gases
Perform analysis of fluid and structural systems using various tools and processes
Specify and procure valves, piping, and structural components
Coordinate with vendors and facilities groups to design, purchase, and fabricate key subsystems
Work onsite at our test facility for build-out & activation including preparation of test procedures, interfacing with data acquisition and control systems, and collecting and interpreting critical data to support test facility readiness.
Collaborate with Archimedes engine and Neutron vehicle design teams to prepare and perform tests on key engine and stage hardware

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or related fields
2+ years’ experience designing, and operating test stands and launch infrastructure for liquid bipropellant launch vehicles.
Demonstrated experience designing, building and operating aerospace test or launch facilities either in internships, college activities or prior employment.
Ability to travel to various facilities for extended periods during key fabrication and activation project phases
A passion for test operations facilities with evidence of personal and substantial contributions to similar projects

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

Experience operating facilities for liquid oxygen and liquid methane
Ability to predict complex fluid system behavior through application of engineering fundamentals
Experience with developing and maintaining integrated schedules for projects of small to medium scope
Demonstrated experience working with various disciplines, fabricators and suppliers to achieve on-time project execution
Ability to remain unfazed by ambiguity or changes in strategic direction while maintaining a positive attitude and being self-actualized and self-guided

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to travel and communicate outside of work hours
Must be able to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.