Senior Systems Engineer II - Secret Clearance

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we’re not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it’s a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

We are currently seeking a Senior Systems Engineer II
for our systems engineering team based out of Long Beach, CA. This team supports our Space Systems division, and lead cutting-edge programs for civil, commercial, and defense customers. Systems engineers are responsible for the development and maintenance of technical budgets, requirements definition, test planning and execution, and overall management of the systems engineering process. They also work hands-on with flight hardware, and drive the technical development of our Space Systems missions.

• Develop and maintain:
• Technical budgets for vehicle performance
• System requirements and verification techniques
• Simulations and analysis across vehicle functions
• Test methods and data analysis
• Lead and own technical development of spacecraft missions
• Assist with program and product management
• Develop, in collaboration with team members, interface specifications, CONOPS definition, and other design documents

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (software, computer, electrical, aerospace, mechanical, or other technical engineering discipline)
• 8+ years of engineering experience in the aerospace industry
• Active Secret Clearance with ability to obtain TS/SCI

• Master’s or PhD in engineering (software, computer, electrical, aerospace, mechanical, or other technical engineering discipline)
• Understanding of key spacecraft subsystems and their associated components, including: attitude determination and control (ADCS), electrical power systems (EPS), space-ground communications, on-orbit command and data handling (C&DH), and thermal control
• Thorough understanding of the space environment, orbital mechanics, and rigid body dynamics
• Experience with MATLAB, Python, and STK
• Experience with requirement management tools such as JAMA or DOORS
• Experience with satellite operations
• Experience with testing electrical subsystems and assemblies, thermal vacuum or random vibration, and hardware-in-the loop (HITL) testing
• Ability to work in a dynamic environment with competing priorities

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

Total Compensation (base and equity)

$164,500 — $255,275 USD

$132,000 — $198,000 USD

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.

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms…