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.

Rocket Lab Space Systems is expanding and were looking for a Senior Systems Engineer - Components to lead development of key spacecraft components including reaction wheels ion propulsion systems (PPUs control boards) avionics and emerging mechanisms like solar array drive systems.

This role owns the full systems engineering lifecycle - from requirements and architecture through design integration testing verification anomaly resolution and customer support. Youll work across teams globally to help set and standardise best practices for spacecraft component development.

WHAT YOULL DO:

• Define system subsystem and component requirements aligned with mission goals
• Develop performance budgets and conduct systems analysis
• Design and optimise electrical architectures (PPUs control boards avionics)
• Create and lead subsystem/system-level test plans and verification campaigns
• Plan and execute environmental testing (TVAC EMI vibration)
• Lead anomaly investigations and corrective actions
• Provide technical support during customer discussions and design reviews
• Help develop internal engineering standards across global teams

YOULL HAVE THESE QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS:

• Bachelors in Electrical Aerospace or related field
• 5 years developing spacecraft components (reaction wheels ion propulsion avionics)
• Strong electronics knowledge (power electronics comms grounding signal integrity)
• Experience with TVAC EMI and vibration testing
• Strong problem-solving communication and collaboration skills
• Experience leading investigations and working with customers
• Ability to travel as needed

If youre looking to work on highly technical high-impact missions and help shape Rocket Labs next generation of spacecraft components we encourage you to apply.

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.