Ground Systems Engineer II / Senior Ground Systems Engineer

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!

NEUTRON 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.   ABOUT THE STENNIS TEST COMPLEX Stennis Test Complex is located on the John C. Stennis Space Center in Hancock County, Mississippi. Rocket Lab has leased the A3 test facility and surrounding 24 acres and built a new horizontal testing position for the Archimedes rocket engine which will power the Neutron vehicle. The test complex is comprised of several buildings for engineering office, shop space, control room, inventory and more. Complex facility electrical and mechanical systems control the cryogenic and high-pressure propellants for engine testing.   GROUND SYSTEMS ENGINEER II / SENIOR GROUND SYSTEMS ENGINEER Based out of Rocket Lab's Test Facility at Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, the Ground Systems Engineer II / Senior Ground Systems Engineer is responsible for Design, Build, and Maintenance of critical test facilities to support the Archimedes rocket engine and the Neutron launch vehicles. You’ll collaborate closely with Engine Propulsion and Test Operations teams to develop requirements for test stand design. Your work will require technical discipline and expertise in mechanical design and build but will also require a strong understanding of instrumentation and test site operations. You will be responsible for maintaining and upgrading critical test facilities to meet the needs of the Archimedes engine test program. You may be asked to directly support Engine hardware and Engine test operations. You will become skilled in Ground Systems engineering and be expected to work independently in support of the overall test facility design, build, activation, and engine test efforts.   WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO

• Design, build, and integrate critical test systems to support all test objectives and requirements
• Work with a team of technicians and engineers to perform troubleshooting to resolve facility and test operations issues
• Develop maintenance protocols for new and existing facility infrastructure
• Collaborate with Archimedes engine and Neutron vehicle design teams to prepare and perform tests on key engine and stage hardware
• Work hand in hand with the test operators to complete design, build, installation and checkout of facility systems
  • This includes helping maintain cleanliness and integrity of systems, ensure component level verifications are performed, and ensuring internal standards are met

NOTE: This position can be hired as a Ground Systems Engineer II or Senior Ground Systems Engineer Level.   GROUND SYSTEMS ENGINEER II, YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering; or other technical discipline
• 2+ years of experience in rocket engine test stand or launch complex design and build
• Working knowledge in Siemens NX and Teamcenter

SENIOR GROUND SYSTEMS ENGINEER, YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering; or other technical discipline
• 5+ years of experience in rocket engine test stand or launch complex design and build
• Working knowledge in Siemens NX and Teamcenter

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE

• Experiencing with NASA GFSSP, Ansys Fluent, and CAESAR
• Experience with JIRA for work tracking and scheduling
• Broad general background in your engineering discipline with ability to design systems and develop computer tools fo