Senior Propulsion Design Engineer I

Senior Propulsion Design Engineer I

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.

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

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 available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company's discretion.

Base Pay Range (CA Only)

$115,200 - $172,800 USD

What To Expect

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small.

We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.