Senior Systems Engineer

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.

You already know that Rocket Lab is a global leader in space launch. 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.

SPACE SYSTEMS

Rocket Lab Space Systems started with the CAPSTONE mission in support of NASAs Artemis program launching a satellite into a unique Near Rectilinear Halo Orbit around the moon. Then we became just the second company to successfully complete re-entry from orbit enabling microgravity manufacturing for the first time. Soon were going to Mars! Designing and building spacecraft to undertake a ground-breaking science mission with the University of California Berkeley and NASA.

We manufacture single bespoke satellites for highly complex missions through to entire constellations. And were unique in offering vertical integration with our in-house satellite components too. This means we can move fast design and build components exactly the way we want them and constantly innovate.

Our Space Systems team does the impossible taking on the most challenging and rewarding missions - and were only just getting started! This role offers a rare opportunity to be part of our growing team. You will collaborate with exceptionally talented and dedicated people pushing boundaries and reshaping what is possible together.

SENIOR SYSTEMS ENGINEER

Based out of Rocket Labs NZ headquarters in Auckland NZ the Senior Systems Engineer gets to follow the entire lifecycle of spacecraft missions. Starting with conceptual design subsystems sizing and requirements definition. Followed by the build phase during which you will oversee the build and test campaigns of the whole spacecraft working across multidisciplinary teams to ready the spacecraft for flight. Once you have deemed the spacecraft ready for flight you will be overseeing the launch campaign activities and supporting the mission operations as the spacecraft expert ensuring a complete mission success for Rocket Lab and its customer.

Day-to-day you will be involved with:

• Define mission and system requirements to support mission objectives
• Develop technical budgets and systems analysis to ensure vehicle performance and reliability
• Design spacecraft architectures
• Define Implement and carry out subsystem and system level test plans and procedures for requirements verification and validation
• Guide technicians and determine integration flow for optimal spacecraft build and assembly
• Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams to develop end-to-end solutions for example
  • Propulsion All our spacecraft are equipped with advanced propulsion systems for delta-V capabilities you will work closely with our fabulous propulsion team to integrate this capability into the spacecraft design
  • Vehicle design Our creative design team will require your input to ensure all requirements are being met and come up with new ways to squeeze a spacecraft onto a small rocket
  • GNC Work with our one-in-a-million GNC team to integrate advanced sensors and actuators to perform state-of-the art maneuvers on orbit
• Provide program support to team leads and program managers and be a key technical interface between the Auckland NZ and Long Beach USA engineering teams

YOULL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

A Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering Mechanical Engineering Electrical Engineering or a related field (advanced degree preferred).
Proven experience (5 years) specifically on aerospace/satellite development programs covering phases from initial design through on-orbit operations including leadership roles in these projects.
Understanding of key spacecraft subsystems and their associated components including attitude determination and control spacecraft electrical power systems space-ground communications on-orbit command and data handling and thermal control.
Thorough understanding of the space environment materials selection radiation effects degradation factors etc.
Experience testing electrical subsystems and assemblies including functional performance and environmental tests.
Proficiency in systems engineering tools (e.g. JAMA) simulation software (e.g. Simulink STK) and programming languages (e.g. Python Matlab)
Experience with the development and execution of environmental testing such as thermal vacuum EMI or random vibration testing.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a keen attention to detail and a can-do attitude.
Excellent communication and teamwork abilities with a passion for space exploration and innovation.
Experience in developing and implementing process improvements and best practices within engineering teams.
Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required to support project needs.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
Proven project management/leadership skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver projects on time and within budget.
Demonstrated leadership experience including mentoring junior engineers and leading cross-functional teams.
Experience designing and building harnesses for flight or test.
Experience with satellite operations on orbit.
Experience with hardware-in-the-loop testing.
Familiarity with industry standards and regulatory requirements for space systems.
Experience with advanced simulation and modelling tools beyond the essentials (e.g. ANSYS COMSOL).
Knowledge of advanced manufacturing techniques and materials for space applications.
Experience with mission planning and analysis tools.
Publications or patents in relevant fields.

If this sounds good to you please Apply Now.

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.