Propulsion Design Engineer II
Long Beach, NY - USA
Job Summary
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 to 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.
NEUTRON
Rocket Labs Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutrons structures and components to firing up its new Archimedes engines to setting up Neutrons launch pads and test sites across the United States joining the Neutron team is your opportunity to help launch a new large rocket for the very first time.
PROPULSION DESIGN ENGINEER II
Based out of Rocket Labs our headquarters in Long Beach CA the Propulsion Design Engineer is responsible for the design of engine components (combustion chambers turbo machinery engine layout etc.) for the Archimedes this role youll have the opportunity to design analyze and build hardware. You will support the Neutron and Archimedes teams with deliverables required to facilitate engine development and advance the program forward.
WHAT YOULL GET TO DO:
- Work with technical subject matter experts to design engine systems to meet performance quality and manufacturability requirements.
- Develop and own mechanical design solutions for propulsion systems.
- Perform trade studies and design reviews with analysts manufacturing engineers and subject matter experts from concept to production.
- Work with internal and external fabrication teams to bring hardware from design to fruition
QUALIFICATIONS YOULL BRING AS PROPULSION DESIGN ENGINEER II:
- Bachelors degree in mechanical engineering aerospace engineeringor related field
- 2 years of experience in relevant engineering field.
- Strong foundation in heat transfer fluids and structural mechanics.
- Proficiency in finite element analysis using ANSYS Workbench or similar packages.
- Mastery of mechanical design principles.
- Strong understanding of design for manufacturing and GD&T principles.
- Prior experience developing and maintaining engineering design best practices
- Prior experience developing parts assemblies or systems from concept to production.
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
- High proficiency in GD&T.
- Proficiency in using ANSYS Workbench
- Proficiency in using StarCCM or similar CFD software packages.
- Prior experience with design of additively manufactured rocket engine components.
- Experience with propulsion systems design analysis test operations and/or manufacturing
- Experience with best practices for design qualification and production of aerospace hardware.
- Experience working in a fast-paced development program.
This position may require prolonged periods of sitting standing walking computer work and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise dust and fumes in production areas
Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills education and experience.
Join one of the worlds fastest-growing space companies and own a piece of addition to competitive pay youll receive company stock as part of your total compensation package giving you a direct stake in our success. As we expand to new launch sites groundbreaking missions and global markets your ownership has the opportunity to grow alongside the company.
Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock) top-tier medical plans (HMO PPO and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution) dental and vision coverage paid vacation and sick time 11 paid holidays flexible spending and dependent care accounts paid parental leave disability and life insurance and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
Additional perks include subsidized EV charging onsite fitness centers (where available) discounted gym memberships complimentary snacks and beverages 50% employee discount on our popular merch store and a variety of other employee discounts.
Base Pay Range (CA Only)
$100800 - $138600 USD
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.
Required Experience:
IC
About Company
The end-to-end space company delivering reliable launch services, spacecraft, satellite components.