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Senior Project Engineer
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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 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 rocket has 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.
SPACE SYSTEMS
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, technicians, and designers who design, create, and put together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defence sectors, or who build and assemble satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions.
ABOUT THE ROLE:
As a Senior Project Engineer, you’ll lead technical project management from concept through to launch. You’ll work closely with teams across design, production, and procurement to ensure projects are delivered efficiently and effectively. From implementing new designs to driving engineering changes, this role is all about solving challenges, improving processes, and delivering results.
IN THIS ROLE YOU’LL:
- Manage new designs from pre-release to launch, coordinating across departments to ensure smooth transitions.
- Build strong relationships across teams and ensure alignment on project priorities.
- Tackle technical challenges and deliver practical, effective solutions.
- Analyse and improve systems to enhance efficiency and streamline workflows.
- Implement safer, more efficient practices, reduce lead times, and optimise costs.
WHAT YOU’LL BRING:
Essential:
- A Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
- At least 5 years of engineering experience, ideally in aerospace.
- Hands-on experience with complex electro-mechanical systems.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to produce clear technical documentation.
- A proactive, adaptable attitude and a willingness to take ownership of projects.
- The ability to navigate challenges, influence stakeholders, and gain buy-in across teams.
Preferred:
- Experience in project management or project engineering.
- Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems like JIRA or Team Center.
- Knowledge of production quality metrics and composite assemblies.
If you’re an experienced engineer looking for a role where you can lead, innovate, and make a difference, we’d love to hear from you!
WHAT TO EXPECT
We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s 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 other’s 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 g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.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.
Ready to apply?
Apply to Rocket Lab Corporation
Senior Spacecraft Operations Engineer
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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 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 rocket has 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.
SPACE SYSTEMS
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, technicians, and designers who design, create, and put together our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defence sectors, or who build and assemble satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions.
YOUR MISSION:
Based at our Auckland Production Complex as a Senior Spacecraft Operations Engineer, you’ll take ownership of spacecraft operations across a diverse and growing fleet - from LEO constellations to deep space exploration missions. You won’t just operate spacecraft - you’ll design how they’re operated, shaping automation, software, and mission success from concept to re-entry.
You’ll collaborate with world-class engineers across propulsion, flight software, GNC, and mission design - turning ambitious ideas into reality, fast.
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
- Command and operate spacecraft with automation at the core
- Develop and test ground and flight software for long-term missions
- Build robust operational scripts and telemetry/FDIR configurations
- Lead validation using simulation tools (HITL, flatsat)
- Support spacecraft through integration, testing, launch, and on-orbit life
- Drive continuous improvement across systems, processes, and performance
WHAT SETS YOU APART:
- You’re not just technically strong - you’re decisive, curious, and solutions-focused.
- You tackle complex engineering problems and find a path forward
- You own your work end-to-end and deliver under pressure
- You communicate clearly, challenge respectfully, and collaborate deeply
- You think in systems, balance risk, and optimise for real-world outcomes
WHAT YOU BRING:
Essential
- Bachelor's degree in aerospace, Systems, Software engineering or other engineering degree
- 5+ years of experience in any of the following: space mission design, satellite subsystems, ground systems, or spacecraft operations
- Background in mission design, satellite subsystems, ground systems, or spacecraft operations/command
- Familiarity with Linux systems and software development experience, such as Python, C++, or other high-level languages
- Strong understanding of spacecraft systems (ADCS, power, comms, C&DH, thermal)
- Solid grasp of orbital mechanics, space environment, and dynamics
- Proven ability to thrive in fast-paced, multi-priority environments
Desirable
- Postgraduate degree in Aerospace Engineering
- Experience in spacecraft ops, satellite design, or ground systems
- Familiarity with modern dev tools (Git, CI/CD, cloud)
- Hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) testing experience
This isn’t just a job. It’s a chance to help build spacecraft that go further, operate smarter, and achieve more than ever before.
Ready to launch your career into orbit? Apply now and help us shape the future of space.
WHAT TO EXPECT
We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s 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 other’s 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 g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.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.
Ready to apply?
Apply to Rocket Lab Corporation
Spacecraft Operations Automation Intern
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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 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 rocket has 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.
While other companies talk about it, we do it!
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, technicians, and designers 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.
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:
-
The Spacecraft Operations Intern Engineer at Rocket Lab in Auckland, New Zealand, supports the Spacecraft Operations team by integrating AI tools and enhancing ground software with AI features to improve spacecraft operations. This internship offers hands-on experience across the entire spacecraft operations ecosystem, including missions ranging from Low Earth Orbit (LEO) science and service constellations to interplanetary missions. The intern will help maintain the health and safety of Rocket Lab’s growing fleet, ensuring mission objectives and service level agreements are met.
Responsibilities include supporting diverse missions—such as LEO on-orbit manufacturing, deep space missions, and constellation management—across all phases, from commissioning and orbit raising to routine operations and re-entry. The role involves close collaboration with teams in spacecraft design, assembly, integration and testing (AIT), flight software, propulsion, guidance, navigation and control (GNC), flight dynamics, and ground software development. Rocket Lab’s vertically integrated approach provides interns with exposure to a wide range of technical products and responsibilities, making this a unique opportunity to develop both spacecraft operations and software AI skills.
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
-
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree with a major in software development.
- Demonstrated success working in dynamic environments with multiple priorities (e.g., university projects, internships).
- Proficiency in software development (Python, Shell, Linux, TeamCity, GitLab pipelines).
- Solid foundation in AI preferred (machine learning, neural networks, generative AI, etc.).
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
-
- Able to provide an idea/solution on path forward when faced with an engineering challenge.
- Able to share knowledge on effectiveness of theories and concepts.
- Exposure to modern development practices (GIT, CI/CD, cloud infrastructure).
- Experience with hardware-in-the-loop testing.
- Strong documentation and communication skills.
If the above sounds like you apply now!
WHAT TO EXPECT
We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s 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 other’s 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 g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.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.
Ready to apply?
Apply to Rocket Lab Corporation
Avionics Engineer II – Test
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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 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 rocket has 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.
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!
WHAT TO EXPECT
We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s 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 other’s 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 g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.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.
Ready to apply?
Apply to Rocket Lab Corporation
Senior Avionics Engineer
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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 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 rocket has 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.
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:
The Senior Power Electronics Engineer will lead the design, development, and verification of high-power flight electronics, focusing on ion propulsion power processing units and high-voltage distribution systems. You’ll own projects from concept through production, ensuring robust, efficient, and reliable hardware for space environments. Key responsibilities include designing high-voltage DC-DC converters, precision power distribution units, and custom magnetics, while meeting strict efficiency, thermal, and EMC requirements. Your expertise will guide technical decisions and maintain the integrity of spacecraft avionics across multiple flight programs.
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:
- Own the full development lifecycle of high-reliability, high-voltage power processing units for ion propulsion systems, focusing on advanced power conversion, high-voltage isolation, and precision current/voltage control.
- Architect and design high-power DC-DC converters and power distribution electronics, ensuring optimal topology selection, effective thermal management, and minimal EMI for mission-critical propulsion applications.
- Design and prototype vehicle-level high-voltage distribution units and interface modules, ensuring robust circuit protection, arc suppression, and compliance with complex system-level safety and interface requirements.
- Perform comprehensive electrical analyses, including Worst-Case Analysis (WCA), FIDES, Power Integrity (PI), thermal simulations, and high-voltage stress analysis to ensure mission reliability.
- Select space-grade high-voltage components for in-orbit applications, addressing radiation tolerance (TID/SEE), corona discharge risks, outgassing, and lead-time risks.
- Lead the design of complex power electronics, including custom magnetics (transformers, inductors), switching regulator optimization, high-voltage filtering, and high-efficiency power distribution networks.
- Develop grounding, bonding, and EMI/EMC strategies for high-power integrated avionics suites to ensure electromagnetic compatibility across spacecraft and propulsion systems.
- Oversee bring-up, "smoke testing," and diagnostic verification of first-article high-voltage flight hardware, performing precision rework and high-voltage diagnostics as needed.
- Define and lead environmental qualification and risk-reduction testing campaigns for power electronics, including Thermal Vacuum (TVAC), random vibration, high-voltage breakdown, and EMI/EMC testing.
- Mentor junior and intermediate engineers through peer reviews of power electronics schematics, high-voltage PCB layouts, and technical budgets (power, mass, efficiency).
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Propulsion, GNC, Flight Software, Thermal) to resolve high-voltage interface challenges and ensure seamless system integration.
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Electronics, or a related field
- 7+ years of experience in high-reliability power electronics design, with a proven track record of delivering flight-proven or mission-critical high-power hardware
- Mastery of high-voltage power electronics design, simulation, and layout using industry-standard digital tools
- Experience with high-efficiency DC-DC converters operating below 1kV, magnetics design (transformers, inductors), and high-voltage isolation techniques, including mitigations for creepage and corona/arcing
- Hands-on expertise with advanced lab instrumentation for high-voltage hardware bring-up and characterization (e.g., high-bandwidth oscilloscopes, high-voltage probes, current sensing equipment)
- Strong understanding of Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Test (DFT) for high-reliability, production-scale high-voltage electronics
Required Tools:
- Expert-level proficiency in eCAD software (Altium Designer)
- Power electronics simulation tools (LTspice, PLECS, PSIM, or similar)
- Power Integrity and thermal analysis tools (HyperLynx, ANSYS Icepak, or similar)
- Requirement management and verification tools (JAMA)
- Product Lifecycle Management and configuration management (Teamcenter)
- Mechanical integration and harness oversight (Siemens NX)
- Production and task management software (Jira, Confluence, Smartsheet)
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:
- Understanding of space-specific design constraints, including radiation mitigation (TID/SEE), thermal management in a vacuum, and material outgassing for high-voltage applications
- Experience with FPGA development or low-level embedded software for hardware verification and diagnostic tool development for power systems
- Background in designing ion propulsion power processing units, Hall effect thruster controllers, or gridded ion engine electronics
- Experience leading environmental qualification campaigns (TVAC, Vibration, Shock, EMI/EMC, high-voltage breakdown testing) to aerospace standards
- Experience with automated test equipment (ATE) development for production-level high-voltage PCBA verification
- Demonstrated success mentoring junior engineering staff and driving technical process improvements within an organization
- Familiarity with the unique constraints of the NewSpace industry, specifically the application of COTS components in high-reliability, high-power systems
- Knowledge of custom magnetics winding techniques and vendor management for space-qualified magnetic components
WHAT TO EXPECT
We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s 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 other’s 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 g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.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.
Ready to apply?
Apply to Rocket Lab Corporation