Senior Propulsion and Fluids Test Engineer

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets spacecraft and critical subsystems that keep the world connected protected expand humanitys reach to the Moon Mars and beyond. We move fast build real hardware for meaningful missions and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab were not just launching rockets were building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space like solar panels flight software star trackers optical systems separation systems radios and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1700 missions ranging from interplanetary exploration in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft payloads and components for missions to the Moon and Mars working with partners including NASA the Space Development Agency and the U.S. Space Force. Whether its a single high-performance spacecraft constellation or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

SENIOR PROPULSION AND FLUIDS TEST ENGINEER

At Rocket Lab the systems you work on dont sit on a shelf - they launch operate in orbit and support real missions. From deep space exploration to Earth observation the work here has weight.

Were hiring a Senior Propulsion and Fluids Test Engineer to join our Space Systems team in Auckland.

WHAT YOULL GET TO DO:

• Own propulsion components and fluid systemsfrom concept through qualification to production
• Design build and operate test setupsto validate hardware performance
• Plan and execute test campaigns including instrumentation data collection and analysis
• Troubleshoot and resolve hardware issuesthat emerge during development and testing
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teamsto develop new systems and improve existing designs
• Navigate technical challengesacross development qualification and production phases
• Review and approve test plans and reportsto maintain engineering standards
• Guide risk-based decision-makingfor propulsion and fluid systems
• Mentor and support other engineersin technical development and best practices
• Maintain systems-level perspectivewhile managing component-level details
• Communicate effectively with stakeholdersacross the organization to ensure alignment and mission success

WHAT WERE LOOKING FOR:

• Proven experience developing and testing propulsion fluid or other high-performance hardware
• Strong hands-on background with instrumentation data acquisition and test execution
• Experience working across the full development lifecycle from requirements through to production
• Confidence operating in ambiguity and making sound first-principles engineering decisions
• Experience with LabVIEW (or similar) and data analysis tools

NICE TO HAVE:

• Background in aerospace testing (vibration thermal vacuum leak or life testing)
• Python for data analysis or modelling experience
• Advanced degree (Masters or PhD)

Apply today!

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 here ITAR Regulations.