Payload Integration Engineer II

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.

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 will deliver a highly cost‑effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program. If you’re interested in joining a high performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean sheet development of re‑usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!

Rocket Lab is seeking an experienced payload integration engineer with previous launch vehicle or spacecraft integration experience. This role will work under the direction of the Team Lead for Payload Integration. The candidate must have demonstrated experience in one or more of the following areas: spacecraft or launch vehicle integration, systems engineering, and/or electrical/mechanical systems.

This candidate will interface with spacecraft customer integration teams and direct and perform tasks associated with the physical payload integration to the Electron and HASTE launch vehicle. This role requires a candidate who works well with a multidisciplinary team and can hold their own when presented with technical challenges in front of both internal and external customers. The position is based in Long Beach, CA at Rocket Lab Headquarters, but requires frequent travel to customers and launch sites worldwide.

• Perform hands‑on payload integration activities, including fit checks, dispenser, and launch vehicle integration
• Assist management in on‑site integration planning and performance of daily coordination meetings during launch site integration periods
• Provide inputs for development and verification of Launch Vehicle to Spacecraft Interface Control Documentation (ICD)
• Ability to create and execute assembly integration and test instructions
• Provide customer support to answer questions with internal technical staff as required
• Remain in constant contact with engineering staff regarding mechanical and electrical design needs based on mission requirements for the spacecraft integration

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering or technical discipline and 2+ years of applicable experience
• Active US Government security clearance Secret or TS/SCI
• Previous launch vehicle or space hardware integration experience
• Demonstrated ability to understand technical constraints relative to payload integration
• Advanced presentation and technical writing skills
• Ability to travel to launch sites and customer sites including overseas (New Zealand and others)

• Mechanical, Electrical or Aerospace degree preferred
• Solid interpersonal and organizational skills
• Experience with Cube Sats, Small Sats, or other small space payloads
• Ability to read mechanical and electrical drawings
• Ability to perform electrical and mechanical testing

• 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,…