Rocket Lab is a global leader in space systems, and we’re looking for a Senior Ground Systems Engineer – Mechanical to join our innovative team. In this role, you’ll design, build, test, and commission the critical systems that support our Electron and Neutron launch vehicles- from production to orbit. If you’re 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, you’ll 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. You’ll 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, you’ll play a key role in ensuring Rocket Lab’s ground systems are reliable, efficient, and ready to support our missions.

What You’ll 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 activities—both 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 We’re Looking For

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s 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 You’ll 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, you’ll be part of a team that’s shaping the future of space exploration. You’ll 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 that’s making history in space exploration.

Ready to Launch Your Career?

If you’re 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.

Lead the Future of Space Exploration as Manager - Ground Systems Engineering

Rocket Lab is redefining what’s possible in space, and we’re looking for a visionary Manager - Ground Systems Engineering to lead the team responsible for the systems that make our missions possible. From test stands to launch pads, fluid systems to automation technologies, this role is at the heart of ensuring Electron and Photon reach orbit seamlessly. If you’re ready to take charge of cutting-edge engineering projects and inspire a team to achieve the unthinkable, this is your opportunity to make history.

About the Role

As the Manager - Ground Systems Engineering, you’ll lead a team of up to 15 engineers tasked with designing, building, testing, operating, and maintaining the systems that support Rocket Lab’s launch vehicles and spacecraft. You’ll oversee large-scale test stands, tooling, and launch pad systems, including vehicle-to-pad interfaces, fluid systems, structures, mechanisms, power systems, and instrumentation.

This role is focused on delivering new technologies to automate and optimise test and launch operations while improving reliability across Rocket Lab’s NZ and US sites. You’ll be responsible for growing your team, driving innovation, and ensuring the safety and efficiency of all ground systems.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Leadership

• Directly manage a team of engineers responsible for ground systems design, build, test, operations, and maintenance.
• Develop and deliver new technologies to automate and optimize test and launch operations.
• Create technology roadmaps, schedules, workflows, staffing plans, and budgets to support ongoing and new projects.
• Establish processes to enhance quality, efficiency, and collaboration across teams and departments.
• Serve as the technical review and approval authority for engineering projects.
• Ensure safety and reliability of all launch engineering systems.
• Work closely with vehicle engineering teams to define requirements and verification processes.
• Collaborate with site teams for system build, maintenance, and operations.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory engineering and safety requirements in NZ and the USA.

Team Development & Management

• Recruit, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of engineers.
• Promote and maintain a positive, collaborative, and innovative team environment.
• Manage staff performance and administer professional development programs.
• Plan and manage projects to ensure on-time, on-budget delivery.

Financial Management

• Develop and maintain accurate budgets to support financial reporting requirements.
• Ensure adherence to company financial policies and procedures.
• Create annual operating plans and budgets to support department objectives.

Health & Safety

• Ensure compliance with health and safety policies and procedures.
• Promote a culture of safety across all operations.
• Report near-misses and incidents promptly and implement corrective actions.

What We’re Looking For

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Degree in aerospace, mechanical, electrical, or mechatronic engineering (or equivalent).
• 3+ years of experience in engineering management.
• 5+ years of experience in engineering design, testing, and/or operations.
• Strong technical background in fluid mechanics, structural design and analysis, electrical and power systems, automation, instrumentation, control systems, and software development.
• Proven ability to motivate and enable a team to deliver complex projects on schedule and within budget.
• Self-driven, motivated, and contagiously positive attitude.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Meticulous work ethic with an eye for detail.

Desirable Skills & Experience:

• Experience working at launch vehicle test or launch facilities.
• 5+ years of experience in engineering management.
• 10+ years of experience in engineering design, testing, and/or operations.
• Demonstrated experience in launch site development.
• Familiarity with FAA, NASA, RCC, and USAF compliance programs.

Ready to Lead the Charge?

If you’re an experienced engineering leader with a passion for innovation and a drive to make history, Rocket Lab is the place for you. Apply now and take your career - and humanity’s future - to new heights!