Senior Propulsion Engineer I

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets spacecraft and critical subsystems that keep the world connected protected expand humanitys reach to the Moon Mars and beyond. We move fast build real hardware for meaningful missions and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

NEUTRON

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

SENIOR PROPULSION ENIGNEER I

As Senior Propulsion Engineer I you will play a critical role in the development testing and operation of the Archimedes Engine family a cornerstone of the Neutron rocket program. You will take ownership of subsystems and engine operation driving design analysis testing and operational readiness. You will execute testing campaigns analyze data improve existing evaluation capability and refine designs for reliability and vehicle operations.

This role demands technical expertise strong autonomy and the ability to align teams and projects to achieve program goals. Principal Engineers will additionally drive value to teams outside their group influencing cross-functional efforts and contributing to the broader success of the Neutron program.

WHAT YOULL GET TO DO:

• Design analyze test fly and refly next generation propulsion hardware ensuring operational readiness and flight success.
• Develop and execute test plans including qualification and acceptance testing and conduct post-test data reviews to refine designs and processes.
• Collaborate across engineering disciplines to optimize engine performance reliability and manufacturability.
• Generate high-level plans and prioritize tasks across teams resolving competing priorities and ensuring alignment with program goals.
• Mentor and guide engineers fostering technical growth and collaboration.
• Work with manufacturing testing and vehicle operation teams to support engine needs operation and resolve issues each part of the engine lifecycle.

YOULL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS A SENIOR PROPULSION ENGINEER I:

• Bachelors degree in mechanical engineering aerospace engineering or related field.
• 5 years of experience in rocket engine development testing or operations.
• Strong technical understanding of fluid dynamics thermodynamics cryogenic systems and rocket engine architecture.
• Familiarity with engine P&IDs fluid system routing and hotfire data reviews.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Advanced degree in a fluid mechanics-heavy field.
• Experience with ox-rich staged combustion systems and Methyl/LOX propellants.
• Background in failure analysis combustion dynamics turbopump mechanics and hydraulics.
• Familiarity with reusable rocket engine systems and test/launch facility operations.
• Experience with best practices for design qualification and production.

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

Anticipated annual equity grant value is designed around function level experience and other factors; realized value depends on vesting and stock-price performance.

Join one of the worlds fastest-growing space companies and own a piece of addition to competitive base pay youll receive company stock as part of your total compensation package giving you a direct stake in our success. As we expand to new launch sites groundbreaking missions and global markets your ownership has the opportunity to grow alongside the company.

Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock) top-tier medical plans (HMO PPO and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution) dental and vision coverage paid vacation and sick time 11 paid holidays flexible spending and dependent care accounts paid parental leave disability and life insurance and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.

Additional perks include subsidized EV charging onsite fitness centers (where available) discounted gym memberships complimentary snacks and beverages 50% employee discount on our popular merch store and a variety of other employee discounts.

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills education and experience.

Total Compensation (base and equity)

$135475 - $208475 USD

Base Salary

$115200 - $172800 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT

Were on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth but thats 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 others 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 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.

Required Experience:

Senior IC