Systems Engineer II​/Senior

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 Electron rockethas 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.

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

As a Systems Engineer at Rocket Lab’s Silver Spring, Maryland location, you will guide development of innovative and complex electromechanical systems from project ideation through production implementation and customer delivery. This facility manufactures satellite separation mechanisms. Rocket Lab’s commitment to improving life on earth by going to space is built upon a foundation of hard-working and motivated individuals that collaborate, challenge, and have each other’s backs.

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PLEASE NOTE:

THIS ROLE CAN BE HIRED AT EITHER THE SYSTEMS ENGINEER II OR SENIOR SYSTEMS ENGINEER I LEVEL.)

• Guide development of innovative space mechanisms from ideation through implementation
• Lead requirements definition, allocation, traceability, verification, and system validation across the development lifecycle
• Ensure requirements traceability throughout the development process and address potential conflicts or issues
• Prepare and maintain technical documentation, such as system design descriptions, CONOPS and ICDs
• Create and maintain requirements verification matrices and risk management plans
• Generate technical reports and presentations to communicate findings, progress, and recommendations to internal stakeholders and external partners
• Provide technical management of project requirements, system architecture, system interfaces, mission assurance guidelines, and system compliance
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure proper functionality across system interfaces and for end users
• Own significant aspects of project reviews and technical interchange meetings
• Mentor other engineers
• Support travel or off-site work, as-needed

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering field
• 2+ years of experience in systems engineering supporting mechanical development projects
• Familiarity with aerospace standards, environments and requirements
• Experience with requirements management tools such as JAMA

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering field
• 5+ years of experience in systems engineering;
• 2+ of those related to mechanical development…