Mechanical Engineer II, Neutron Avionics

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 to 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. We are developing Neutron, our upcoming medium‑lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. This role focuses on mechanical design and packaging for the avionics across the Neutron vehicle, from the Archimedes engine, GNC sensing and computing, and the explosive flight safety system.

Based out of Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Mechanical Engineer II, Neutron Avionics, is responsible for the development and implementation of mechanical designs and packaging solutions for the electronics that power Neutron. From cradle to grave, you will create the mechanical components that enable the avionics across the vehicle, including integration with other avionics, optimizing for cost, mass, and production rate.

You will work with fellow avionics designers, propulsion, fluids, electrical design, vehicle integration, and testing teams across local, national, and global sites.

• Develop mechanical components and electro‑mechanical systems, including design, prototyping, production, test, and integration. Execute multiple design iterations and manage hardware delivery timelines.
• Support and execute hardware testing, including system‑level performance validation, Archimedes hotfires, integrated vehicle stack tests, and explosive/destructive qualification.
• Analyze electro‑mechanical and structural assemblies via classical and computer methods, optimizing performance and longevity.
• Contribute to future reusable vehicle architectures, aiming for hands‑off reusability between flights.
• Travel to vendors and test sites around the United States (approximately 10%) and sporadic travel to New Zealand sites.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent.
• 2+ years of professional experience with mechanical or electro‑mechanical design and analysis.

• Professional experience with NX, Ansys, or similar tools.
• Experience designing for stressing thermal and dynamic environments.
• Strong fundamentals in mechanical design, 3D modeling, finite element analysis (FEA), and manufacturing drawing creation (GD&T).
• Experience working with avionics designers and exposure to electronics integration and packaging.
• Experience with best practices for design, qualification, and production of avionics systems and electro‑mechanical components for launch vehicles.
• Experience with Python or similar software languages and integration.
• Experience with an agile development environment.
• Experience with vibration and shock testing of avionics, sensors, or similar components.
• Experience with HASS/HALT, HITL testing electronics and designing test support hardware.
• Experience with control systems for electro‑mechanical components and systems.

• 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 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…