Senior Space Systems Structural Analyst

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 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 rockethas 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

Rocket Labs 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.

SENIOR STRUCTURAL ANALYST

Join a world-class team designing the future of spaceflight.

Rocket Labs Structural & Mechanical Systems team is at the forefront of spacecraft innovation. We drive the design development and performance of spacecraft structures Photon platforms and mission-critical payload systems. Working hand-in-hand with cross-functional engineering teams and Production we bring bold concepts to lifefrom initial design to launch-ready hardware.

As a Senior Structural Analyst youll play a key role in shaping the structural integrity and performance of our spacecraft. Your work will directly influence the success of space missions supporting everything from simulation and testing to flight analysis and qualification.

WHAT YOULL GET TO DO:

• Lead structural analysis of spacecraft and platform components including composites and metallic structures.
• Develop and refine finite element models to assess structural performance under static dynamic and thermal loads.
• Analyse flight and test data to define structural environments and validate design margins.
• Define test requirements support test execution and conduct post-processing of structural test data.
• Specify and review instrumentation (e.g. strain gauges accelerometers thermocouples) for flight and ground testing.
• Collaborate with design and manufacturing teams to ensure structural solutions are practical and producible.
• Identify risks recommend mitigation strategies and drive continuous structural improvement initiatives.
• Mentor and support junior engineers in technical development and analysis methodologies.
• Contribute to the development of documentation data structures and processes to support manufacturing and performance improvements.
• Champion structural excellence from concept development through integration and launch.

YOULL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelors or Masters degree in Mechanical Aerospace or Structural Engineering (or related field).
• Extensive experience in structural analysis of aerospace or high-performance systems.
• Strong proficiency in finite element analysis (FEA) tools (e.g. ANSYS NASTRAN Abaqus or similar).
• Solid understanding of static dynamic and thermal loading conditions in aerospace applications.
• Demonstrated experience with test data correlation and validation of analytical models.
• Familiarity with sensor specification and placement for structural testing and in-flight monitoring.
• Excellent problem-solving communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to lead projects independently and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience with composite structure analysis and design.
• Prior involvement in spacecraft or launch vehicle programs.
• Hands-on experience with testing qualification campaigns or manufacturing support.
• Experience mentoring junior engineers or leading small technical teams.

Apply now and launch your career with Rocket Lab!

WHAT TO EXPECT

Were on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth but thats 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 others 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 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 hereITAR Regulations.