Senior Payload Integration Engineer II

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!

Rocket Lab USA is seeking a Senior payload integration engineer with previous launch vehicle or spacecraft integration experience. This role will work under the direction of a Team Lead - Payload Integration Engineer and will report to the Manager - Missions and Payload Integration. The candidate must have demonstrated experience in one or more of the following areas: spacecraft or launch vehicle integration, systems engineering, and/or electrical/mechanical systems.

The proper candidate will interface with spacecraft customer integration teams and direct and perform tasks associated with the physical spacecraft integration to the Electron and Neutron launch vehicles. This role requires a candidate who works well with a multidisciplinary team and can hold their own when presented with technical challenges in front of both internal and external customers. The position is based in Long Beach, CA USA at Rocket Lab USA HQ, but requires frequent travel to customers and launch sites worldwide.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Perform hands-on payload integration activities, including fit checks, dispenser, and launch vehicle integration
• Assist management in on-site integration planning and performance of daily coordination meetings during launch site integration periods.
• Provide inputs for development and verification of Launch Vehicle to Spacecraft Interface Control Documentation (ICD)
• Create and execute assembly integration instructions
• Provide customer support to answer questions with internal technical staff as required
• Remain in constant contact with engineering staff regarding mechanical and electrical design needs based on mission requirements for the spacecraft integration.
• Plan and execute process improvement projects related to payload integration

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering or technical discipline – Mechanical, Electrical or Aerospace degree preferred and 8+ years of applicable experience -OR- Master's degree in an engineering or technical discipline and 6+ years of experience
• Active DoD Secret or TS/SCI Clearance
• Previous launch vehicle or space hardware integration experience including experience with CubeSats, SmallSats, or other small space payloads
• Strong understanding and experience working with tooling related to space vehicle integration
• Demonstrated ability reading mechanical and electrical drawings
• Experience working with mechanical models in CAD software programs
• Demonstrated ability performing electrical and mechanical testing
• Ability to travel up to 50% to launch sites and customer sites including overseas (New Zealand and others)

 THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOUL BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Solid presentation and technical writing skills
• ITAR – knowledge of ITAR requirements and importance of TAA's
• Solid interpersonal and organizational skills
• Demonstrated ability in understanding technical constraints relative to payload integration

PHYSICAL & ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.   
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.  
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings 
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise. 

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge