Senior Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer I/II - Secret

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, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like 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, 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 the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

SENIOR SPACECRAFT MECHANICAL ENGINEER I/II - SECRET

Based out of Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Senior Spacecraft Mechanical Engineer I/II - Secret is responsible for developing high performance and lightweight satellite deployment systems, mechanisms, and satellite bus configurations for our customers. You will support the Space Systems organization, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors, and investors.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

Support the Business Development team with proposals and mission concepts

Develop high performance and lightweight satellite systems, mechanisms, and satellite bus configurations for our customers

Develop concepts and satellite configurations for high value science and interplanetary missions

Define what mechanisms look like on a modern satellite system/bus

Own component designs from conceptual design through production, test, and operation

Perform hand-calcs and FEA to drive design decisions

Lead key component design, manufacturing, and test reviews

Create and maintain product definition through CAD, production drawings, and test and operations procedures

Manage development schedules, vendors, budgets, and other project deliverables

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

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS SENIOR SPACECRAFT MECHANICAL ENGINEER I:

Bachelor’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering; or other engineering discipline

5+ years of mechanical engineering experience

Experience with CAD modeling and drawing

Active Secret or TS/SCI clearance

U.S citizenship is required, due to program requirements

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS SENIOR SPACECRAFT MECHANICAL ENGINEER II:

Bachelor’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering; or other engineering discipline

8+ years of mechanical engineering experience

Experience with CAD modeling and drawing

Active Secret or TS/SCI clearance

U.S citizenship is required, due to program requirements

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

Master’s or PhD in aerospace or mechanical engineering; or other engineering discipline

Spacecraft/satellite design experience

Rapid conceptual design iteration experience

Exceptional mechanical mechanism problem-solving skills

Hands-on development and testing experience

Experience with analysis and interpretation of test data (Thermal, Vibe)

Ability to take a product from concept through to production with little supervision

Highly self-motivated and able to work autonomously

Master’s degree in mechanical engineering or aerospace engineering

Ability to apply GD T to component designs

Experience developing satellite deployment systems

General spacecraft systems engineering knowledge, and experience with requirements assessments and interface control document generation

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasi…