Recovery Engineer

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

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 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.

Neutron is a medium lift launch vehicle capable of delivering the mega constellations of tomorrow, high assurance payloads, and human spaceflight. As a highly reusable launch platform, Neutron will deliver a highly cost‑effective and reliable launch solution leveraging Rocket Lab’s proven execution history with the Electron program. If you’re interested in joining a high‑performing team, pushing the boundaries with a clean‑sheet development of re‑usable liquid launch vehicle, this is your opportunity!

The Recovery Engineer position will initially be based out of Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, CA, or Middle River, MD. You will be responsible for the design and development of all Recovery assets needed to support Neutron Recovery. You will interface and be responsible for successful Neutron Recovery program designs and hardware to enable development, testing, flight, and recovery. (Please note this position can be hired at Recovery Engineer I or II Level)

• Work as a part of a team of engineers through the early stages of developing the Neutron Recovery program
• Own critical Recovery Sub System designs, analysis and other technical details as needed to support the objectives of the team
• Serve as technical expert for marine system designs & recovered flight hardware post‑processing required for Neutron Recovery
• Develop technical details for Recovery designs including what hardware to build and how tests are performed in order to maximize the program’s available resources towards meaningful progress on Neutron
• Collaborate heavily with Rocket Lab Engineering teams to ensure all systems are operational to support Neutron Recovery
• Support Recovery system fabrication and testing both remotely and onsite as needed at Wallops Island as well as other facilities

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, naval, marine, electrical, systems or aerospace engineering, or related field
• Past work experience, internships, or projects related to aerospace vehicles/payloads, automotive, aircraft, or marine assemblies

• 2+ years professional experience in Maritime or Aerospace field

• Experience working with teams of engineers to successful outcomes on challenging projects with tight timelines and budgets
• Experience designing and building complex, multi‑disciplinary systems including Electrical, Mechanical, Hydraulic, Fluids, or Marine Systems
• Self‑motivated and directed with keen attention to detail
• Ongoing drive for continuous improvement in all aspects of work
• Detail oriented, organized, and demonstrate a high sense of urgency
• Ability to work in fast‑paced, high stress and remote environments
• Ability to work autonomously, prioritize work, and make resource allocation recommendations that involve risk and uncertainty

• Ability to work in a high‑concentration, high‑stress environment; good response to problems posed by short deadlines; prolonged mental concentration (under possible extended work hours)
• Willing to support offshore operations, including working recovery…