Senior Propulsion Design Engineer

Senior Propulsion Design Engineer I

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 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, 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.

Rocket Lab's Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutron's structures and components, to firing up its new Archimedes engines, to setting up Neutron's launch pads and test sites across the United States, joining the Neutron team is your opportunity to help launch a new large rocket for the very first time.

Based out of 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. In this role you'll have the opportunity to design, analyze and build hardware. You will support the Neutron and Archimedes teams with deliverables required to facilitate engine development and advance the program forward.

Please note:

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

What You'll Get To Do:

• 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

Qualifications You'll Bring As Senior Propulsion Design Engineer I:

• 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.

These Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have:

• 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.

Additional Requirements:

• 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 the following considerations: 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 access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.

Other perks include:
Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts. Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits…