ABOUT SPACE SYSTEMS:

It began with the CAPSTONE mission, supporting NASA’s NASA Artemis program by launching a satellite into a unique Near Rectilinear Halo Orbit around the Moon. From there, the team reached another milestone - becoming only the second company ever to successfully complete re-entry from orbit, opening new possibilities in microgravity manufacturing. Now, the journey continues. Be part of the team supporting missions beyond Earth, including work with Rocket Lab and its twin spacecraft headed to Mars on NASA’s ESCAPADE mission.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

As a Senior Manufacturing Engineer, you’ll play a critical role in shaping the future of Ion Propulsion systems, from early-stage development through to scaled production. You’ll be embedded in a fast-moving environment where R&D meets high-volume manufacturing - providing input during design phases, solving complex production challenges, and ultimately enabling reliable delivery of advanced propulsion systems to orbit.

WHAT YOU’LL BE WORKING ON:

You’ll contribute across a diverse portfolio of space technologies:

Ion Propulsion

New engine development in early-stage research and design. You’ll help guide its transition from prototype into scalable manufacturing.

Reaction Wheel Production

High-volume manufacturing involving complex mechatronics systems, improving the line and introducing new products.

Satellite Buses

Short-run builds spanning both design and production, offering broad exposure across the product lifecycle.

There’s a strong technical focus on electrical systems, testing, harnessing, and PCB inspection/testing.

Team & Culture

• You’ll work closely with Avionics Test and Avionics Manufacturing teams, partnering with engineers, technicians, and key stakeholders across the business
• A collaborative, down-to-earth culture with team members from around the world
• Strong cross-functional engagement and knowledge sharing
• A balance of R&D innovation and production delivery

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Develop, implement, and improve quality documentation (procedures, work instructions, inspection records)
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and other methodologies
• Drive process optimisation and waste reduction in manufacturing workflows
• Organize and lead process reviews and audits at an organizational level
• Analyse production and test data to identify trends and implement corrective actions
• Collaborate cross-functionally to improve product quality and performance
• Train and mentor production staff on best practices and quality standards

TECHNICAL EXPECTATIONS:

This is a hands-on, senior-level role requiring:

• Strong electrical and/or mechanical engineering expertise
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve non-conformances
• Experience developing and operating test rigs and systems
• Capability to write code and analyze test data

Programming is a key requirement, particularly for:

• Test system development
• Automation
• Data analysis

IDEAL SKILLS:

• Python
• C++
• SQL
• Controls / Electrical competency

WHAT YOU’LL BRING:

• 5+ years’ experience in manufacturing, quality, project, or design engineering
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Materials Engineering
• Experience with process and test method validation

Strong knowledge of:

• Lean & Six Sigma, Root Cause Analysis & Corrective Actions, FMEA, APQP, Control Plans
• Experience working within Quality Management Systems
• Proven ability to make sound engineering decisions and assess feasibility

NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience with Siemens Teamcenter or Infor LN
• Knowledge of production quality metrics
• Experience transitioning products from prototype to production
• Change implementation in compliance-driven environments
• PPS problem solving

This is a rare opportunity to work at the intersection of cutting-edge space exploration, advanced manufacturing, and real-world impact - helping deliver the next generation of propulsion systems that will power missions beyond Earth.

NEUTRON

Rocket Lab is bringing our innovative medium-lift launch vehicle, Neutron, to life. Neutron Development Engineers deliver across a broad set of vehicle domains including structural (i.e. Propellant tanks, interstage, fairings), mechanical (i.e. stage separation, landing, aerodynamic control), fluid (i.e. pressurant, propellant management, ignition, HVAC), and thermal (i.e. thermal protection) systems.

As a Senior Development Engineer, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the architecture of our vehicle. This role will work directly with analysis and manufacturing engineers to produce concepts, detailed designs, and drawing packages for metallic and composites components & assemblies and to perform development & qualification tests, refine designs, and ensure Neutron’s materials, components, and assemblies meet their functional and performance requirements.  

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Produce & rapidly iterate conceptual designs in CAD for structures and mechanisms across the Neutron launch vehicle.
• Proactively identify and solve technical challenges to allow projects to proceed safely and at pace;
• Prepare drawing packages & technical reports, ensuring manufacturability is considered throughout the design process
• Produce design documentation, FMEA, P&IDs, ICDs etc.
• Support with the definition of design requirements
• Support the testing structures and mechanisms, including composites and metallic components
• Develop test plans, monitor test activities, and post-process and document test data to verify functional and performance requirements;
• Produce test jigs / fixtures to aid testing of components & assemblies;

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Aerospace, mechanical or mechatronic engineering degree or equivalent qualification
• 5+ years designing high performance mechanical systems
• Experience with CAD software such as NX (preferred), Fibersim (preferred), Solidworks, CATIA
• The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work well within a team environment
• Sound analytical skills and the ability to see the big picture and making connections and appropriate decisions
• Have tenacity, a can-do attitude, and the ability to think quickly and make accurate judgements

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

Experience in one of the following domain areas:

• Metallic or composite structures
• Mechanisms
• Pressurised systems
• Fluid Systems

NEUTRON

Rocket Lab is bringing our innovative medium-lift launch vehicle, Neutron, to life. Neutron Development Engineers deliver across a broad set of vehicle domains including structural (i.e. Propellant tanks, interstage, fairings), mechanical (i.e. stage separation, landing, aerodynamic control), fluid (i.e. pressurant, propellant management, ignition, HVAC), and thermal (i.e. thermal protection) systems.

As a Development Engineer, you'll play a pivotal role in shaping the architecture of our vehicle. This role will work directly with analysis and manufacturing engineers to produce concepts, detailed designs, and drawing packages for metallic and composites components & assemblies and to perform development & qualification tests, refine designs, and ensure Neutron's materials, components, and assemblies meet their functional and performance requirements.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Produce & rapidly iterate conceptual designs in CAD for structures and mechanisms across the Neutron launch vehicle.
• Proactively identify and solve technical challenges to allow projects to proceed safely and at pace;
• Engage with more experienced engineers across the team for ongoing mentorship and coaching, for both technical and behavioural skills.
• Prepare drawing packages & technical reports, ensuring manufacturability is considered throughout the design process
• Produce design documentation, FMEA, P&IDs, ICDs etc.
• Support with the definition of design requirements
• Support the testing structures and mechanisms, including composites and metallic components
• Develop test plans, monitor test activities, and post-process and document test data to verify functional and performance requirements;
• Produce test jigs / fixtures to aid testing of components & assemblies;

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Aerospace, mechanical or mechatronic engineering degree or equivalent qualification
• 3-5 years designing high performance mechanical systems
• Experience with CAD software such as NX (preferred), Fibersim (preferred), Solidworks, CATIA
• The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work well within a team environment
• Sound analytical skills and the ability to see the big picture and making connections and appropriate decisions
• Have tenacity, a can-do attitude, and the ability to think quickly and make accurate judgements

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

Experience in one of the following domain areas:

• Metallic or composite structures
• Mechanisms
• Pressurised systems
• Fluid Systems

NEUTRON

Rocket Lab’s Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutron’s structures and components, to firing up its new Archimedes engines, to setting up Neutron’s 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.

DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER II – THERMAL PROTECTION SYSTEMS

As a Development Engineer II specializing in Thermal Protection Systems (TPS), you'll be at the forefront of designing cutting-edge vehicle structures that withstand extreme environments. Collaborating closely with analysis, design, and manufacturing teams, you'll transform innovative concepts into detailed designs and precision-engineered components using advanced metallic and composite materials. Your expertise in testing, control, modelling, and analysis will be critical to ensuring the performance and reliability of these systems. This is your opportunity to push the boundaries of engineering and contribute to the creation of next-generation aerospace technologies!

Join a driven team that’s tackling challenging projects, delivering on exciting missions, and making an impact on the future of space!

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Drive innovation by creating and rapidly iterating conceptual designs in CAD for cutting-edge thermal protection systems and subassemblies across metallic and composite structures for the Neutron launch vehicle.
• Design critical elements such as composite assemblies, material stack-ups, joint details, seals, fastening solutions, and metallic interfaces, while collaborating closely with analysts to ensure structural and thermal requirements are met with precision.
• Lead the creation of detailed drawing packages and assembly models, working hand-in-hand with the production team to ensure seamless design-for-manufacture throughout the process.
• Own, maintain, and manage analysis tools and methods for 1D and 2D/3D analysis of thermal performance of design features.
• Design and implement hardware, instrumentation, and test articles to streamline development testing and correlation of models, enabling efficient validation of components and assemblies.
• Support TPS solutions hands-on through qualification, manufacturing, and integration activities via direct engagement with interfacing technical teams.
• Collaborate with Thermofluids and structures teams as primary interface on aerothermal and TPS related tools and topics
• Inspire and empower the next generation of engineers by providing mentorship and technical guidance to junior team members, leveraging and creating technical documentation to enhance capabilities through analysis tools and thermal testing procedures.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Aerospace, mechanical or mechatronic engineering degree or equivalent qualification
• 2 - 4 years of design experience, designing high performance mechanical or thermal systems
• A strong understanding of material science, thermodynamics, heat transfer, and aerodynamics, with specific focus on their application to TPS
• 2 years experience with CAD software and modelling tools for mechanical and thermal design and analysis
• The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work well within a team environment
• Sound analytical skills and the ability to see the big picture and making connections and appropriate decisions
• Have tenacity, a can-do attitude, and the ability to think quickly and make accurate judgements

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Strong understanding of engineering fundamentals (mechanics of materials, thermodynamics, material property characterization, design best practices, analysis methods, and manufacturing processes)
• Advanced skills with Python and MATLAB
• Familiarity with CFD – StarCCM, Ansys Fluent, COMSOL or equivalent
• Familiarity with engineering trade studies and material selection
• Experience with thermal testing, data acquisition, test hardware, and test planning
• Experience in one of the following domain areas:
  • Composite structures
  • Metallic structures
  • Materials characterization and testing
  • Transient thermal response modelling
  • High temperature and insulative materials
  • Hands-on experience with TPS material, technologies, and manufacturing
  • Spacecraft or launch vehicles

NOTE: Along with a CV and Cover Letter, please attach a recent CAD portfolio with your application for review. 

MANUFACTURING  

Rocket Lab’s Manufacturing teams are the builders and the doers who work with our advanced machinery across our global manufacturing sites to get our satellites, satellite components, and rockets out the door. They bring the designs of our engineers to life by using advanced manufacturing techniques like 3D printing to create our hardware, and are responsible for delivering our projects and missions on time and on budget to our customers.   

SENIOR MANUFACTURING ENGINEER – PROPULSION  

Based out of Rocket Lab's Production Complex in Auckland, New Zealand the Senior Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for overseeing process improvements and product revisions as related to the Rutherford rocket engine. You will support the Director of Manufacturing Engineering and Production organization, with deliverables required for internal leadership, board of directors and investors.   

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: 

• Develop production processes and ensure they are accurately and clearly documented, including testing procedures, health and safety requirements and supervisor signoffs.  
• Interface with the quality team to resolve manufacturing engineering quality responsibilities, and when required, lead problem containment and structured root cause & corrective action investigations.  
• Design, develop, and implement tooling and equipment for use in a production environment where appropriate to improve quality, delivery and/or cost performance.  
• Lead the continuous improvement process in your area using lean tools and techniques such as 5S.  
• Introduce automation where appropriate and ensure equipment data links directly to MRP and quality systems.  
• Contribute to design reviews acting as an expert in design for manufacture, design for test, productivity, supplier capability assessments, quality control, etc.  
• Perform initial Value Stream Mapping Exercises, Method of Manufacture plans, cell design, etc.  
• Implement Factory layouts, Equipment selection, FAT, SAT, and production commissioning.  

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:  

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, manufacturing, aerospace or similar engineering discipline  
• 5+ years of professional engineering experience in a highly regulated manufacturing environment  
• Understanding of fluid and structural mechanics fundamentals  
• Knowledge in manufacturing processes for aerospace materials 

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:  

• Master’s degree in mechanical, manufacturing, aerospace or similar engineering discipline  
• 8+ years of manufacturing engineering experience preferably with fluid components during assembly, functional checkouts or qualification testing 
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes common to fluid components 
• Experience with assembly & testing of turbomachinery and combustion devices  
• Experience with designing, implementing, and supporting a production line and/or build area  
• Experience with manufacturing processes, including but not limited to TIG, EB and laser welding, heat treating, metal forming, additive manufacturing, CNC machining and precision cleaning  
• Experience transitioning products from design to production as a part of cross-functional team in a fast-paced, iterative design environment  
• Experience performing root cause and corrective action projects and PFMEA / DFMEA of manufacturing processes and products  

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 
• Availability to work long hours and weekends as needed based on test and launch schedules

While other companies talk about it, we do it!

NEUTRON

Rocket Lab’s Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutron’s structures and components, to firing up its new Archimedes engines, to setting up Neutron’s 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.

About the Role:

As a Configuration Management Engineer, you will deliver cross functional support to teams to align Neutron’s portfolio of products with the program’s strategy; requirements; operations and technical maturity phases. This role is based in Auckland, New Zealand. 

Join a driven team that’s tackling challenging projects, delivering on exciting missions, and making an impact on the future of space! 

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Develop our systems and collaborate with affected teams to ensure the manufacturing and integration teams know what we should build and when to build it. 
• Identify opportunities to improve the Neutron project’s processes and software tools to ensure that we know what we have built and we have confidence that it was built correctly. 
• Drive our Engineering Change Management process (ECM), by collaborating closely with systems engineering, design, manufacturing, quality, supply chain teams, and production teams to facilitate effective design changes. 
• Establish, guide, and maintain our engineering and manufacturing bill of materials (EBOM, MBOM), to ensure our master data remains up to date, and the team are aligned across a common set of release targets for both development testing and our flight manifest 
• Contribute to planning and project coordination across the program to implement design changes and process improvement activities. 
• Provide configuration status reporting to show compliance with customer and regulatory requirements. 
• Proactively identify and solve technical challenges to allow projects to proceed at pace. 
• Define and uphold high quality engineering processes 

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering (or equivalent experience) 
• 2+ year’s industry experience applied to a relevant technical field (i.e. Structures, Fluid Systems, Mechanisms, Propulsion) 
• Demonstrated experience in delivering complex multidisciplinary systems consisting of fluid systems, structures, mechanisms and/or propulsion with a broader awareness of other launch vehicle disciplines such as avionics hardware, avionics software, GNC, and/or Radio Communications.  
• Proven track record of collaborating with cross functional stakeholders to guide projects from concept to completion. 
• Proven communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships with colleagues and engineering professionals 
• The ability to work to tight deadlines within a high-pressure environment  
• Strong aptitude to learn new material to solve difficult, ambiguous challenges. 
• Working knowledge of Engineering design, CAD (preferably Teamcenter and NX), Engineering drawings, manufacturing processes 
• Strong understanding of the Engineering Change Process and associated Configuration Management 
• PDM and other CAD file database experience 

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Project Management experience
• Working knowledge of SQL Databases 
• ERP Experience 
• Power BI data visualization 

If the above sounds like you apply now!

ABOUT SPACE SYSTEMS AT ROCKET LAB:

Rocket Lab’s Space Systems team is responsible for every satellite and satellite component made by Rocket Lab: from complete satellites destined for missions to the Moon and Mars, to the individual components and subsystems that make up a satellite like solar panels, flight software, reaction wheels and star trackers, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team is made up of engineers and technicians who design, create, and put together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defense sectors, or who build and assemble satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

As a member of the Ion Propulsion Team, you will be on the front-line of cutting-edge avionics hardware development. You will have the unique opportunity to support the creation, test, and deployment of avionics hardware and systems that go into orbit. This includes, but is not limited to, power electronic systems, high-voltage components, and high reliability control electronics. Your role working with avionics hardware is critical in ensuring quality and reliability in a fast-paced development environment all the way through to scale production.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Plan, develop, and execute test campaigns for avionics components and subsystems, including high-voltage and power electronic systems.
• Collaborate with design engineers and customers to generate and document test requirements.
• Perform hands-on troubleshooting during component bring-up, integration, and operations.
• Conduct root-cause failure investigations and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and verify analytical and empirical models for electrical systems.
• Design and implement automated test architectures and data analysis tools.
• Write automation software (Python, C/C++) for test equipment and data acquisition.
• Support the design and development of electronic circuits and assemblies for automated testing.
• Review and analyze system-level test data from integrated testing and launch campaigns.
• Provide guidance and support to production technicians and manufacturing engineers.
• Create and maintain technical documentation, procedures, and training materials.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety policies and procedures.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a related field.
• 4+ years of experience in hardware development or electronics test engineering.
• Hands-on experience with instrumentation and sensors (oscilloscopes, power supplies, accelerometers, thermocouples, RTDs, 4-20mA sensors).
• Experience conducting aerospace environmental testing (vibration, shock, thermal, TVAC).
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills for electronic hardware.
• Proficiency with electrical test equipment and data acquisition systems.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, autonomous, and collaborative environment.
• Excellent communication and documentation skills.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience designing hardware from concept through to production.
• 3+ years of programming experience in Python, C, C++, or Matlab.
• Experience with FPGA-based systems and high-voltage electronics.
• Familiarity with PCB design tools (Altium, Eagle, KiCAD, etc.).
• Experience developing automated test equipment and data analysis tools.
• Knowledge of root cause analysis methodologies such as FMECA.
• Prior experience in the aerospace or space systems industry.
• Experience supporting production lines and training technicians.

If this sounds like you - Apply today! 

We’re looking for a Senior Manufacturing Engineer - Composites who enjoys being close to the product- someone who understands how things are designed, built, and improved in the real world.

ABOUT THE ROLE: 

In this role, you’ll work across both development and production, helping bring composite structures from prototype through to reliable, repeatable manufacturing. You’ll be involved in everything from tooling and process development to resolving issues on the floor and improving product quality.

You’ll use systems like TeamCenter or Infor LN to manage data and processes, and tools like Siemens NX to support design and manufacturing integration. A big part of the role is problem-solving - analysing non-conformances, leading root cause investigations, and making sure fixes are implemented properly and don’t come back.

We’re looking for someone who understands manufacturing at a systems level. You’re comfortable working with DFMEA, PFMEA, and other structured problem-solving tools. You’ve applied Lean or Six Sigma in practice, and you know how to turn data into decisions using SPC and production metrics. Experience with composites is important - whether that’s tooling, materials, repairs, or assembly into larger systems. You’ll also help define and improve processes so that what we build is not just high-quality, but consistently repeatable.

This role suits someone who takes ownership, works well with others on the floor, and is always looking for ways to improve how things are done—not just maintain the status quo.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING: 

• Take products from prototype through to full-scale production, making sure they’re ready for the real world
• Design and develop composite tooling, moulds, and manufacturing processes
• Work alongside technicians and engineers to solve problems on the floor as they happen
• Investigate non-conformances, lead root cause analysis, and make sure fixes actually stick
• Drive improvements across quality, cost, and delivery—not just maintain the status quo
• Build clear, practical procedures so processes are easy to follow and repeatable
• Support validation, testing, and implementation of product and process improvements
• Use data (SPC, Pareto, etc.) to understand performance and guide better decisions

WHAT YOU'LL BRING: 

You’re someone who understands how things get built - not just in theory, but in practice.

• Experience working with ERP/PLM systems (TeamCenter, Infor LN or similar)
• CAD experience, ideally with Siemens NX
• A solid background in manufacturing or production environments
• Strong understanding of quality systems, metrics, and continuous improvement
• Hands-on experience with structured problem-solving (DFMEA, PFMEA, root cause analysis)
• Familiarity with Lean or Six Sigma tools and ways of working
• Experience with composite materials, tooling, and manufacturing processes
• Confidence troubleshooting issues and making decisions in a fast-paced environment

BONUS POINTS

Not essential, but great to have:

• Experience in aerospace or other high-performance industries
• Knowledge of advanced composite materials (resins, ablatives, sandwich structures)
• Experience with composite repairs and assembly into larger systems
• Exposure to capacity modelling, value stream mapping, or process mapping
• Comfortable working across teams and communicating with both engineers and technicians

This role suits someone who likes being close to the action - solving real problems, improving how things are built, and taking ownership of the outcome. If this is you, Apply today! 

SUPPLY CHAIN 

Rocket Lab’s Supply Chain team is responsible for the flow of all materials, products, and components through 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 enables our technicians to put together our Electron rockets, 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.  

LEAD SUPPLIER QUALITY ENGINEER

Based out of Rocket Lab's Auckland, New Zealand facility, the Lead Supplier Quality Engineer is responsible for ensuring that the quality requirements for procured parts and processes are consistently met. Leading a team of highly capable Supplier Quality Engineers, you will act as a key liaison between internal stakeholders and suppliers, translating complex technical requirements into clear, achievable specifications. Your exceptional leadership, communication, and negotiation skills will inspire suppliers to continuously improve, implement robust quality processes, and drive cost reduction and process efficiency, all while balancing the priorities of internal teams and external partners. This role also involves overseeing the creation of non-conformance reports, conducting supplier audits, managing supplier concessions, and identifying opportunities for improvement to reduce risk, cost, and lead time for Rocket Lab.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Proven ability to lead high-performing teams by fostering collaboration, driving accountability, and empowering team members to achieve exceptional results in dynamic and challenging environments.
• Develop and implement robust supplier quality systems and processes to ensure consistent delivery of quality components and services.
• Utilize tools and metrics to monitor supplier performance, providing visibility into quality trends and driving accountability.
• Lead initiatives to improve purchased product quality, reduce non-conformances, and enhance supplier processes through root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Support suppliers in scaling production processes to meet future quality, cost, and delivery targets while introducing new products into production (NPI, APQP, PPAP).
• Act as a bridge between suppliers, internal teams, and senior management to ensure alignment on technical requirements, production goals, and quality standards.

QUALIFICATIONS YOU’LL BRING AS A LEAD SUPPLIER QUALITY ENGINEER:

• 5+ years in a quality role, preferably in regulated industries such as Aerospace, Medical, Automotive, or Industrial.
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Mechatronic Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong knowledge of quality systems, engineering drawings, GD&T, and specialized manufacturing processes like fabrication, CNC, PCBAs, and 3D printing.
• Proficiency in root cause analysis tools (8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone diagrams, etc.) and practical problem-solving methodologies.
• Proven ability to lead projects, manage supplier relationships, and drive quality improvements across the supply chain.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:  

• Ability to work extended hours, some nights or weekends when needed
• 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  

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.