Propulsion Design Engineer II​/Senior Propulsion Design Engineer

Overview

Long Beach, CA

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 important space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation, and missions related to climate change, national security, and new technology demonstrations.

Neutron is a medium-lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron aims to provide a cost-effective and reliable launch solution, leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven Electron program. This opportunity is for joining a high-performing team with a clean-sheet development of a reusable liquid launch vehicle.

PROPULSION DESIGN ENGINEER II / SENIOR PROPULSION DESIGN ENGINEER I

Based in Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Propulsion Design Engineer is responsible for the design of engine components (combustion chambers, turbo machinery, engine layout, etc.) for the Archimedes Engine. The role involves designing, analyzing, and building hardware, and supporting the Neutron and Archimedes teams with deliverables required to advance the program.

Please note:

this position can be hired at the Propulsion Design Engineer II or Senior Propulsion Design Engineer I level.

• Work with technical subject matter experts to design engine systems to meet performance, quality and manufacturability requirements.
• Develop and own mechanical design solutions for propulsion systems.
• Perform trade studies and design reviews with analysts, manufacturing engineers and subject matter experts from concept to production.
• Work with internal and external fabrication teams to bring hardware from design to fruition.

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or related field.
• 2+ years of experience in relevant engineering field.
• Strong foundation in heat transfer, fluids and structural mechanics.
• Proficiency in finite element analysis using ANSYS Workbench or similar packages.
• Fundamental understanding of mechanical design principles.
• Fundamental understanding of design for manufacturing and GD&T principles.

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in relevant engineering field.
• Strong foundation in heat transfer, fluids and structural mechanics.
• Proficiency in finite element analysis using ANSYS Workbench or similar packages.
• Mastery of mechanical design principles.
• Strong understanding of design for manufacturing and GD&T principles.
• Prior experience developing and maintaining engineering design best practices.
• Prior experience developing parts, assemblies or systems from concept to production.

• High proficiency in GD&T.
• Proficiency in using ANSYS Workbench.
• Proficiency in using StarCCM+ or similar CFD software packages.
• Prior experience with design of additively manufactured rocket engine components.
• Experience with propulsion systems design, analysis, test, operations, and/or manufacturing.
• Experience with best practices for design, qualification and production of aerospace hardware.
• Experience working in a fast-paced development program.

• 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.

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth. This role emphasizes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, and delivering under pressure while meeting deadlines.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees…