Mechanical Engineer II/Senior

About this role

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets - we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft and precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, including solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration and in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or vertically integrated components that help missions get to space, our world-class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions

MECHANICAL ENGINEER II/SENIOR

As a Mechanical Engineer at Rocket Lab’s Silver Spring, Maryland location, you will lead development of innovative and complex electromechanical systems from project concepting through production implementation on aggressive timelines. This facility manufactures satellite separation mechanisms. Rocket Lab’s commitment to improving life on earth by going to space is built upon a foundation of hard-working and motivated individuals that collaborate, challenge, and have each other’s backs.

(Please note: this position can be hired at the Mechanical Engineer II or Senior Mechanical Engineer I level.)

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Lead schedule-aggressive development of innovative space mechanisms from concept through implementation as responsible engineer

• Design mechanisms and structures in CAD and analyze using hand calcs and FEA

• Drive requirements definition, traceability, compliance, verification, and system validation

• Prepare and maintain technical documentation, such as system design descriptions, CONOPS and ICDs

• Create and maintain requirements verification matrices and risk management plans

• Support constant incremental improvements to the development team’s engineering approach and best practices

• Generate technical reports and presentations to communicate findings, progress, and recommendations to internal stakeholders and external partners

• Support environmental verification testing by assisting or leading test requirements, procedures and execution

• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure proper functionality across system interfaces and for end users

• Own, or significantly contribute to, development schedules, project milestone reviews and technical interchange meetings

• Support business development proposals and custom SOWs

• Support travel or off-site work to suppliers, customers, and other Rocket Lab sites, approximately 10%.

• Mentor other engineers (as Senior I)

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A MECHANICAL ENGINEER II

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering field

• 2+ years experience in aerospace or similar mechanical development

• CAD and FEA proficiency

• Experience adapting to changing priorities and quickly resolving blockers

• Experience w