Mechatronics Engineer II​/Senior

Rocket Lab Overview

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 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. The team has enabled more than 1,700 missions ranging from interplanetary exploration to national security and defense initiatives. We have built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force.

As a Mechatronics Engineer at Rocket Lab’s Silver Spring, Maryland location, you will develop innovative electromechanical systems for product development, test and analysis. This facility manufactures satellite mechanisms; their products include separation systems, on‑orbit devices, and other electromechanical deployables.

• Design, develop, and test electromechanical space systems and test equipment
• Improve and automate test processes
• Design and implement systems for the evaluation of mechanism functionality
• Collaborate on multi-disciplinary teams to ensure all functionality and requirements are met
• Create detailed documentation to communicate the functionality, operation, and performance of products and tools
• Manage and/or support the project lifecycle process, to ensure timely delivery
• Identify and implement quality and process‑related initiatives and improvements
• Analyze electromechanical systems via classical and computer methods
• Identify, test, and integrate instruments like IMUs, encoders, dynamo meters, load cells, brushless motors
• Design and implement data‑acquisition systems
• Design and improve software systems
• Analyze data sets for trends and anomalies
• Travel occasionally to collaborate with other Rocket Lab teams

• Bachelor of Science in an engineering field
• 5+ years of experience designing and implementing electromechanical systems
• Experience with electrical circuit and PCB design
• Experience with data acquisition design, signal processing, and data processing
• Experience implementing feedback control systems

• MS or 8+ years’ experience in relevant field
• Brushed and brushless motor control experience
• Experience in the aerospace industry and typical analysis and test requirements
• Experience implementing AI to accelerate development and data processing
• Proficiency in LabVIEW

• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs
• Must be able to move repetitively, bend or twist, and use hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls
• Must be able to walk or stand for extended periods – 8 hours minimum
• Specific vision abilities required – 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

Base Pay Range (MD Only): $93,000 – $135,000 USD

Employees may receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including top‑tier medical HMO, PPO & 100% company‑sponsored HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 7 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, flex schedule, free breakfast and lunch catered…