Propulsion Systems Engineer I​/II Pipeline

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 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.

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.

We are currently seeking Propulsion Systems Engineers I/II for future opportunities for our systems engineering teams based out of Long Beach, CA. Propulsion Systems Engineers are responsible for system‑level and component‑level ownership of space systems propulsion and fluidic development. These teams support our Space Systems division, and lead cutting‑edge programs for civil, commercial, and defense customers. Systems engineers are responsible for the development and maintenance of technical budgets, requirements definition, test planning and execution, and overall management of the systems engineering process.

They also work hands‑on with flight hardware, and drive the technical development of our Space Systems missions.

(

Please note:

this position can be hired at the Propulsion Systems Engineer I or Propulsion Systems Engineer II level)

• Technical problem solving, review, and documentation
• Manage technical risk within the individual’s scope
• Communicate effectively with leadership and other team members
• Own project requirements
• Design, analyze, test, and fly next generation propulsion and fluidics hardware
• Report on design, analysis, and test findings
• Work with an experienced team of propulsion experts to develop high performance, reliable, and low‑cost hardware
• Work with manufacturing teams to support fabrication, design for manufacturability, and resolve issues that may arise during hardware build.
• Communicate with vendors to ensure system requirements are met

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, (software, computer, electrical, aerospace, mechanical, or other technical engineering discipline)
• Engineering experience in the aerospace industry
• Experience with end‑to‑end rocket engine or spacecraft propulsion system development and operation
• Experience working on propulsion systems utilizing different storable propellants, such as electrical and chemical
• U.S. citizenship required, due to program requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, (software, computer, electrical, aerospace…