Sr. Engineer I/II, R&D

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.  

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

SPACE SYSTEMS

Rocket Lab’s Space Systems team is responsible for every satellite and satellite component made by Rocket Lab: from complete satellites destined for missions to the Moon and Mars, to the individual components and subsystems that make up a satellite like solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels and star trackers, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team is made up of engineers, technicians, and designers who design, create, and put together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defense sectors, or who build and assemble satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions.

SR. ENGINEER I/II, R&D

Based out of Rocket Lab's site in Albuquerque, NM, the Senior R&D Engineer will be a part of an integrated products R&D group that is responsible for the development of new solar panel products and new process development. You will support the R&D group by solving multi-disciplinary design problems related to new missions, new materials, and new product development.

(PLEASE NOTE: This role can be hired at the Sr. Engineer I, R&D or Sr. Engineer II, R&D level) 

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Design, build, and test functional space hardware that powers a wide range of missions and impacts nearly every person on the planet.
• Make hands-on contributions to real hardware that operates in space.
• Develop space solar power technology that is among the highest efficiency and lightest ever made.
• Advance the state of the art in space solar technology.
• Participate in and lead hardware design projects from concept to production.
• Develop, qualify and implement new assembly processes including new equipment and advanced automation.
• Work with and lead multidisciplinary project teams.
• Participate in strategic product road-mapping.
• Become a subject matter expert in various areas of expertise.
• Use organizational skills for leading project teams, managing multiple concurrent projects, and planning, prioritizing and documenting work.
• Develop a strong theoretical understanding of the science and engineering principles that underpin space solar panels and assembly equipment, and use that knowledge to train others, recommend improvements, and conduct meaningful experiments.
• Solve multi-disciplinary electrical, thermal, mechanical, and materials problems for space solar panel products that have to survive in multi-effects environments.
• Use failure analysis methods such as five why, fishbone diagrams, root cause analysis, and FMEA to identify potential causes of failures and develop solutions.
• Document and communicate work product using written and spoken reports and presentations.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SR. ENGINEER I, R&D:

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering, or physics
• 5+ years of experience in mechanical design

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SR. ENGINEER II, R&D:

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering, or physics
• 8+ years of experience in the mechanical design of high reliability components

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience in the mechanical design or manufacture of space solar arrays
• Experience in the mechanical design or manufacture of spacecraft components
• Experience with the engineering process used to design new products or hardware
• Experience with materials selection and/or GD&T for components used in the space environment
• Experience in the mechanical testing of joints