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!

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab’s Electron team is responsible for building, testing, and launching our Electron rocket across our launch sites and test facilities in the United States and New Zealand. Electron is one of the world’s most frequently-launched rockets, and our team behind its success are diligent, move fast, and have each others’ back to deliver a reliable rocket to the launch pad time and time again.

SENIOR GROUND SYSTEMS – MECHANICAL

As a Senior Engineer with our Ground Systems Engineering Mechanical team, you will be responsible for the design, build, testing and commissioning of launch range and test cell structures, mechanisms and fluid systems. This includes all equipment used o handle and interface with the Electron and Neutron launch vehicles from the moment they leave our production facilities until they are on orbit. As a senior engineer in the team, you will be a subject matter expert and technical decision maker.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

Design launch systems: transporters, erectors, launchers, and ground support tooling
Develop cryogenic and high-performance fluid systems
Engineer for extreme environments: high-vibration, hazardous, and harsh conditions
Create detailed 2D/3D CAD models and perform system analysis
Manage BOMs, suppliers, and cross-functional coordination
Lead facility builds and support system certification
Drive maintenance and operational readiness of ground systems

Operational & Test Support:

Collaborate with test and launch teams to ensure system performance
Support on-site and remote commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting
Develop and execute test plans and custom test equipment
Analyse post-flight and post-test data for continuous improvement
Maintain interface control between launch vehicles and pad systems

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (or equivalent experience)
6+ years of hands-on engineering in design, testing, or operations—preferably in aerospace or heavy industry
Proficient with CAD tools (SolidWorks, EPDM); experience with NX and Teamcenter a plus
Comfortable in fast-paced, autonomous work environments
Proven track record of mentoring and technical leadership

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

Experience with launch pad systems or industries like oil & gas, mining, or process engineering
Background in structural design, analysis, and fluid systems (including P&IDs and sizing calculations)
Familiarity with industrial equipment and machinery
Knowledge of standards such as ASME, ASTM, or NASA ground systems

If this sounds like you, Apply today!

WHAT TO EXPECT

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.