Ground Systems Engineer I - Structures and Mechanisms

About The Role

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.  

Our Electron 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. 

NEUTRON

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost-effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program. If you’re interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re-usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!

GROUND SYSTEMS ENGINEER I – STRUCTURES AND MECHANISMS

As a Ground Systems Engineer I – Structures and Mechanisms You will be responsible for the design, build, testing, and commissioning of mechanical launch pad and test sites for Neutron focusing on structures and mechanisms.

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 will play a key role in ensuring Rocket Lab’s Ground Systems are reliable, efficient, and ready to support our missions.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO:

• Design of launch pad and test site fixed assets including test stands, launch mounts, and gantries.
• Design of launch vehicle support equipment including transportation fixtures, lifting apparatuses, and breakover fixtures.
• Design of large mechanisms including umbilicals, hold downs, and strongbacks.
• 2D and 3D modelling through the use of CAD software, specifically NX.
• System sizing and analysis by hand calculation and numerical methods
• Produce risk assessments, system hazard analyses, and FMEAs.
• Component selection, development, and maintenance of BOMs
• Interact with suppliers and internal teams.
• Perform failure investigations and root cause analysis.
• Support maintenance program development.
• Collaborate with test and operations team to ensure systems are fully functional.
• Support pad technicians remotely and in person during installation, commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting activities. 
• Develop and execute test plans to validate the performance of launch pad systems and vehicle interfaces.
• Design, develop and maintain test equipment
• Collaborate with test and operations team to ensure systems are fully functional.

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATION AS A GROUND SYSTEMS ENGINEER I  : 

• ABET accredited Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• Strong engineering fundamentals and ability to perform required design calculations, by hand or through the use of software with proper guidance..
• Proficiency in CAD software for creating 2D and 3D models.
• Ability to read, understand, and produce fabrication drawings.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• Work experience directly applicable to the role within aerospace, oil and gas, mining, or similar industry. This role is not limited to those with prior launch system experience.
• Experience with NX and Teamcenter.
• Experience with software based analysis tools such as RISA, ANSYS, GFSSP, AFT, or equivalent.
• Prior experience through education, internships or full time employment that are directly applicable to the design of structures or mechanisms

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.  

The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the state of Virginia’s pay transparency requirements. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience. 

Base salary is only one part of Rocket Lab’s compensation package for this role. You may be eligible for company stock, or cash incentives, and can purchase discounted stock through Rocket Lab’s Employee Stock Purchase Program. Employee benefits also include medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage; 401(k) retirement plan options; paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave; paid parental leave; and other discounts and perks.  

Base Pay Range (VA Only)

$71,000—$85,000 USD

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 View email address on rocketlabcorp.com 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.