Spacecraft Thermal 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 to space.

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 also developing Neutron, our upcoming medium‑lift, reusable launch vehicle.

Based out of Rocket Lab’s global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, we’re looking for a Spacecraft Thermal Engineer II
. You’ll be responsible for overseeing the thermal design, analysis, testing, and validation of Rocket Lab’s space vehicles. You’ll perform thermal modeling and data analysis while working closely with test and design engineers to capture the vehicle’s thermal performance and provide input for design improvements. Your deliverables will support internal leadership, the board of directors, and investors.

• Complete thermal modeling and analysis of vehicles
• Conduct thermal design trade studies that 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 another engineering discipline
• 2+ years of thermal engineering experience
• U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements

• Master’s or Ph.D. in aerospace or mechanical engineering, or another engineering discipline
• 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

• Sit at desk and operate computer, keyboard, and office equipment for extended periods
• Use hands with dexterity to operate controls, tools and technical equipment, as needed
• Read technical documents, drawings, and computer screens requiring close and distance vision
• Move between buildings, labs, and work areas, as needed
• Work in office and technical environments with occasional exposure to noise, dust and fumes in production areas

Base Pay Range (CA Only)

$95,000 - $125,000 USD

We offer a comprehensive benefit package that includes company equity, medical, dental, vision, HSA, vacation, sick leave, holidays, dependent care, parental leave, disability, life insurance, 401(k) match, and additional perks such as a discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.