Propulsion Engineer , Engine Systems

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.

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.

As an Engine Systems Propulsion Engineer, you will play a critical role in the development, testing, and operation of the Archimedes Engine family, a cornerstone of the Neutron rocket program. This highly technical role involves ownership of engine subsystems, test campaigns, data analysis, and refining designs for reliability and vehicle operations, while driving system architecture trades, managing interfaces, and optimizing requirements for the vehicle.

Success requires strong autonomy, technical expertise, curiosity, attention to detail, and the ability to organize complex systems into actionable plans while collaborating across teams. You will also support engine analysis, simulation, testing, and tool development, bringing deep technical acumen to solve challenging problems. As a self‑starter capable of leading projects with minimal oversight, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact in a fast‑growing startup environment that fosters growth and innovation.

• Design, analyze, test, fly, and refly next generation propulsion hardware ensuring operational readiness and flight success.
• Develop clear requirements and deliver validated designs and hardware that meet program milestones and flight requirements.
• Execute engine test plans, including performance validation and reliability testing, and conduct post‑test data reviews to distill learnings and adjust test planning.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to ensure robust integration, testing, and problem solving.
• Support flight operations, including engine acceptance and post‑flight analysis.

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
• Strong fundamental understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and cryogenic systems.
• Fundamental understanding of mechanical design principles.

• Advanced degree in a fluid mechanics‑heavy field.
• Proven ability to conduct hotfire data reviews, identify blockers for testing, and ensure operational safety of engine systems.
• Experience with staged combustion rocket engines and Methyl/LOX propellant systems.
• Background in failure analysis, combustion dynamics, turbopump mechanics, and/ or fluid systems analysis.
• Familiarity with reusable rocket engine systems and/or test/launch facility operations.

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.

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…