Senior Spacecraft Thermal Engineer I​/II Pipeline

Senior Spacecraft Thermal Engineer I/II Pipeline

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, 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.

• Complete thermal modeling and analysis of vehicles
• Conduct thermal design trade studies that successfully balance performance margins, resource use, risk, cost, and schedule
• Identify and resolve thermal design, acceptance, and performance issues for space vehicle components and assemblies
• Design and execute thermal tests for space vehicle components and assemblies
• Perform thermal model validation using test and in‑flight data
• Liaise with all levels of program and engineering staff on thermal design and test matters, and support other teams/disciplines as necessary
• Identify and research potential vendors of thermal control materials

• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering; or other engineering degree
• 5+ years of experience with thermal engineering
• U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering; or other engineering degree
• 8+ years of thermal engineering experience
• U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements

• Master’s or PhD in aerospace or mechanical engineering; or other engineering degree
• Strong background in heat transfer
• Experience with thermal systems and passive thermal management techniques
• Familiarity using Siemens NX and Teamcenter, with emphasis on model interrogation and defeaturing for subsequent analyses
• Demonstrated experience with Thermal Desktop
• Experience with planning, execution, and data analysis of thermal balance tests
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
• Ability to work independently but also build strong working relationships with colleagues
• Experience with constant conductance and variable conductance heat pipes
• Experience working with multi‑layer insulation: design, fabrication, installation, and test
• Experience with 0‑D and 1‑D thermal/fluid networks
• Familiarity with scripting languages such as Python and MATLAB
• Familiarity with thermal engineering tools such as NX Space Systems Thermal, ANSYS, SINDA, and THERMICA
• Knowledge of aspects of launch and on‑orbit operations
• Familiarity with orbital mechanics and attitude dynamics related to thermal analysis

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise

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…