SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're 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 1,700 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 it’s 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 MECHANICAL ENGINEER SENIOR I/II

As a Mechanical Engineer at Rocket Lab’s Silver Spring, Maryland location, you will lead development of innovative and complex electromechanical systems from project concepting through production implementation on aggressive timelines. This facility manufactures satellite separation mechanisms. Rocket Lab’s commitment to improving life on earth by going to space is built upon a foundation of hard-working and motivated individuals that collaborate, challenge, and have each other’s backs. Join a driven team that’s tackling challenging projects, delivering on exciting missions, and making an impact on the future of space!

(Please note: this position can be hired at the Senior Mechanical Engineer I or Senior Mechanical Engineer II level.) 

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Lead schedule-aggressive development of innovative space mechanisms from concept through implementation as responsible engineer
• Design mechanisms and structures in CAD and analyze using hand calcs and FEA
• Lead requirements definition, traceability, compliance, verification, and system validation
• Prepare and maintain technical documentation, such as system design descriptions, CONOPS and ICDs
• Create and maintain requirements verification matrices and risk management plans
• Support constant incremental improvements to the development team’s engineering approach and best practices
• Generate technical reports and presentations to communicate findings, progress, and recommendations to internal stakeholders and external partners
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure proper functionality across system interfaces and for end users
• Own development schedules, project milestone reviews and technical interchange meetings
• Mentor other engineers
• Support business development proposals and custom SOWs
• Support travel or off-site work to suppliers, customers, and other Rocket Lab sites, approximately 10%.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR MECHANICAL ENGINEER I:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering field
• 5+ years experience in aerospace mechanical development projects
• CAD and FEA proficiency
• Thorough understandings of aerospace standards, environments, verification tests and requirements
• Experience managing complex projects across organizational teams

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR MECHANICAL ENGINEER II:

• SENIOR ENGINEER I qualifications plus
• 8+ years of experience in aerospace mechanical development projects
  • 3+ years as responsible engineer on mechanical development projects
• Experience mentoring other engineers
• CAD and FEA proficiency
• Thorough understandings of aerospace standards, environments, verification tests and requirements
• Experience managing complex projects across organizational team

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• MS in relevant engineering field
• Proficiency in NX CAD and Simcenter FEA software
• Strong task management, communication and problem solving skills
• Experience adapting to changing priorities and quickly resolving blockers

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings 
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise

SUPPLY CHAIN

Rocket Lab’s Supply Chain team is responsible for the flow of all materials, products, and components throughout the business. With many of our own products functioning as critical components to our own and our customers’ missions, the Supply Chain team has a direct impact on the success of our rocket and satellite programs. They set up the assembly kits that enable our technicians to put together our various products, manage inventory, look after shipping and receiving, manage direct and indirect procurement, and inspect and ensure that all of our materials and products are compliant and up to standard. They are the chain that links our teams together and are critical to our success.

INVENTORY COORDINATOR II

Based on site at Rocket Lab’s Silver Spring, MD facility, the Inventory Coordinator is tasked with all aspects of inventory management from receiving, putting items into inventory, counting, and kitting, inwards and outwards goods. Rocket Lab Separation Systems products require inventory that needs to be received, stored, and kitted for production maintaining inventory accuracy through adherence to process, and customer satisfaction of just-in-time fulfillment. RL Separation Systems prides itself on 100% success rate and the Inventory Coordinator is a key part of this mission.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO

• Receive inwards goods on a FIFO basis and ensure SOPs for processing of inwards goods are adhered to 
• Ensure supply of Kanban materials to shop floor is sustained
• Ensure accurate and on time delivery of components and production kits in accordance with production & transfer order plans / priorities
• Maintain a regular cycle counting program
• Ensure FIFO is managed and maintained to achieve appropriate stock rotation
• Maintain stock point accuracy and ensure LN accurately reflects actual stock movements.  Investigating and resolving any discrepancies.
• Manage inbound and outbound logistics with strict adherence to established SOPs for high value products, ensuring product is delivered in a timely manner without damage
• Additional duties as reasonably required

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma and 1+ year of experience
• Proficient using Microsoft Products (Outlook, Excel, Word, Power Point, Access)
• Knowledge of MRP/ERP systems

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Associate degree or bachelor’s Degree
• Experience in aerospace, automotive, or other heavy manufacturing
• Experience with control and tracking of serial, and lot-controlled materials.
• Experience with ERP Systems
• Prior experience in high-paced, rapid growth environment
• Team oriented, strong ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment and to multiple deadlines
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize effectively and efficiently

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus  
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings 
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're 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 1,700 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 it’s 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 PROGRAM MANAGER I

Based out of Rocket Lab's site in Silver Spring, Maryland, the Program Manager oversees project execution, interfaces with customers, defines internal programmatic processes, and leads decision-making strategy. This Rocket Lab facility manufactures satellite components; their products include separation systems, on-orbit mechanisms, and other electro-mechanical deployables. Join a driven team of pioneers relentlessly tackling challenging projects, delivering on the impossible, and making an impact on the future of space!

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Define program requirements (external & internal) based on customer proposals
• Analyze cost and schedule data to produce improved processes and outcomes
• Identify, track, and mitigate technical and programmatic risks
• Maintain relationships with customers and work to build long-term partnerships
• Facilitate cross-functional planning and project execution, ensuring the project is delivered on time, within budget, and consistent with business strategy and expectations.
• Communicate with all levels of the organization the objectives, status, risks, and needs for the program.
• Identify opportunities for improving overall performance of the program.
• Contributes to business unit and divisional strategy planning
• Develop reporting and tracking programs to assure the project is on target for schedule and cost
• Identify key risks and collaboratively prepare contingency plans
• Contribute to new product marketing and manufacturing plans ensuring effective programmatic controls

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• 5+ years of program management experience in a production or product‑development environment within aerospace or a similar industry
• Experience managing project or program management activities for NPI
• Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in a relevant engineering field or in business
• Demonstrated competence in problem‑solving, data analysis, and project planning
• Experience complying with federally mandated requirements under U.S. export‑control laws

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Passionate interest in the satellite industry
• Masters in Business, Operations, or a related engineering field
• Passionate drive to learn new concepts and take on new challenges
• Outstanding attention to detail and high-quality outputs
• Strong communication skills to effectively communicate at all levels of the organization enabling efficient decision-making
• Familiarity with common satellite manufacturing and test processes
• Familiarity with common metal fabrication processes (CNC, EDM, lathe, stamping, additive, etc.)
• Management or Strategy consulting experience
• Master’s degree in Business Administration, Project Management, Systems Engineering or Industrial Engineering with a focus on manufacturing, operations, or logistics
• Experience interpreting and negotiating contract terms and conditions
• Knowledge of ITAR processes and regulations

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus 
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings 
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise