Mechanical Engineer

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity’s 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.

At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

As a Mechanical Engineer I, based at Rocket Lab’s site in Silver Spring, Maryland, you will be part of a team dedicated to producing innovative spaceflight mechanism concepts, specifically separation systems. You will play a critical role in designing, building, and optimizing the products and processes that bring these ideas to life while continuously driving improvements for faster, better, smarter ways to build.

• Hands-on assembly and physical production of mechanical space systems
• Identify and implement quality and process-related initiatives and improvements
• Improve electro-mechanical space systems, including design, prototyping, production, and test
• Analysis of mechanical systems via classical and computer methods Consult with machinists and vendors to assure proper manufacture of components
• Inspection and quality control of machined parts
• Travel occasionally to meet with customers regarding products

• Bachelor's degree in aerospace, computer, electrical, mechanical, robotics, or systems engineering
• Understanding of electrical circuitry
• Capacity to comply with the federally mandated of U.S. export control laws

• Advanced degree in aerospace, computer, electrical, mechanical, robotics, or systems engineering
• 2+ years of engineering experience in the aerospace or manufacturing industry
• Mechanically inclined and able to troubleshoot basic equipment issues
• Passion for mechanisms and structures
• Strong analytical mindset
• Self-motivated
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to schedule and work on multiple projects concurrently
• Ability to work collaboratively with other engineers
• Experience with common manufacturing processes (e.g. CNC, turning, wire EDM, and 3D printing)

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.

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.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 7 days sick…