Senior Ground Systems Engineer Mechanical

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 is a global leader in space systems and were looking for a Senior Ground Systems Engineer Mechanical to join our innovative this role youll design build test and commission the critical systems that support our Electron and Neutron launch vehicles- from production to orbit. If youre ready to push the boundaries of engineering in a fast-paced cutting-edge environment this is your opportunity to make an impact.

About the Role

As a Senior Ground Systems Engineer - Mechanical youll be a subject matter expert and technical decision-maker responsible for the design and development of launch range and test cell structures mechanisms and fluid systems. Youll work on systems that operate in high-vibration harsh and hazardous environments ensuring they meet the rigorous demands of space exploration.

This role is hands-on and collaborative requiring you to work closely with suppliers technicians and cross-functional teams to deliver world-class solutions. From concept to commissioning youll play a key role in ensuring Rocket Labs ground systems are reliable efficient and ready to support our missions.

What Youll Do

Design & Development

• Design systems such as launch vehicle transporters erectors launchers spacecraft handling equipment and ground support tooling.
• Develop fluid systems including cryogenics with a focus on safety and efficiency.
• Perform structural design and analysis for high-vibration and hazardous environments.
• Create 2D and 3D models using CAD software (SolidWorks NX).
• Conduct system sizing and analysis using hand calculations and numerical methods.
• Develop and maintain Bills of Materials (BOMs) and interface control documentation.
• Collaborate with suppliers and internal teams to ensure designs meet specifications.

Operations Support

• Work closely with test and operations teams to ensure systems are operational and meet mission requirements.
• Support pad technicians during installation commissioning testing and troubleshooting activitiesboth remotely and on-site.
• Develop and execute test plans to validate system performance and vehicle interfaces.
• Design develop and maintain test equipment for ground systems.
• Analyze post-flight and post-test data to identify improvements.

Project Management

• Lead projects for facility and system builds ensuring they are delivered on time and within budget.
• Support certification of launch pad systems and develop maintenance programs.
• Identify risks and implement mitigation strategies to ensure project success.

Health & Safety

• Ensure all health and safety policies and procedures are followed.
• Report near-misses and incidents promptly.
• Promote a culture of safety across all operations.

What Were Looking For

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• 6 years of experience in engineering design testing and/or operations in aerospace or industrial sectors.
• Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks EPDM).
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced autonomous environment.
• Demonstrated experience mentoring junior engineers.

Desirable Skills:

• Experience with launch pad systems or industries such as oil and gas process mining or similar.
• Expertise in structural design and analysis.
• Knowledge of fluid systems sizing calculations and P&IDs.
• Familiarity with industrial machinery and equipment.
• Experience with NX and Teamcenter software.
• Knowledge of ASME ASTM and/or NASA ground system standards.

What Youll Bring

• A deep understanding of mechanical systems and the ability to navigate complex engineering challenges.
• A proactive approach to identifying risks and implementing solutions that improve cost quality reliability and delivery.
• The ability to mentor junior engineers lead projects and drive collaboration across teams.
• A positive attitude and the ability to thrive in tough situations seeing challenges as opportunities for growth.
• Strong skills in conveying technical information concisely and steering discussions to achieve impactful outcomes.

Why Join Rocket Lab

At Rocket Lab youll be part of a team thats shaping the future of space exploration. Youll work on innovative projects collaborate with world-class engineers and contribute to missions that make a real impact.

Perks of Joining Rocket Lab:

• Work in a fast-paced cutting-edge environment with opportunities for growth and development.
• Collaborate with a passionate world-class team.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Be part of a company thats making history in space exploration.

Ready to Launch Your Career

If youre an experienced engineer with a passion for mechanical systems and a drive to make history Rocket Lab is the place for you. Apply now and take your career to new heights!

Rocket Lab: Launching the Future Together.

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.