Propulsion Engineer - Engine Systems

Rocket Lab is an end‑to‑end space company delivering responsive launch services, spacecraft design, satellite components, and more to support scientific exploration, Earth observation, national security, and climate change missions.

As a Propulsion Engineer I – Engine Systems, you will be responsible for the design, testing, and operation of the Archimedes Engine family, a core component of the Neutron rocket program. Your work will involve ownership of engine subsystems, test campaigns, data analysis, design refinement for reliability and vehicle operations, system architecture trades, interface management, and requirement optimization.

• Design, analyze, test, fly, and refly next‑generation propulsion hardware to ensure operational readiness and flight success.
• Develop clear requirements and deliver validated designs and hardware that meet program milestones and flight requirements.
• Execute engine test plans, including performance validation and reliability testing, and conduct post‑test data reviews to distill learnings and adjust test planning.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to ensure robust integration, testing, and problem solving.
• Support flight operations, including engine acceptance and post‑flight analysis.
• Own and drive key engine subsystems, manage interfaces, and optimize requirements for vehicle performance.

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field.
• Strong fundamental understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and cryogenic systems.
• Fundamental understanding of mechanical design principles.

• Advanced degree in a fluid‑mechanics‑heavy field.
• Proven ability to conduct hot‑fire data reviews, identify blockers for testing, and ensure operational safety of engine systems.
• Experience with staged combustion rocket engines and Methyl/LOX propellant systems.
• Background in failure analysis, combustion dynamics, turbopump mechanics, and/or fluid‑systems analysis.
• Familiarity with reusable rocket engine systems and/or test/launch facility operations.

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

Base salary range: $82,400 – $123,600 USD. Compensation also includes company equity and a robust benefits package.

• Top‑tier medical HMO, PPO & 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
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts

To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), candidates must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident, or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations. Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type.

Background checks, including nationality checks, will be conducted prior to any employment offers. Eligibility requires citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a NATO country, or otherwise aligned with ITAR requirements.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants 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. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, training, and other employment-related benefits.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process should contact Giulia Johnson at