Senior Mechanical Engineer I​/II

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 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.

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 Mechanical Engineer at Rocket Lab’s Silver Spring, Maryland location, you will lead development of innovative and complex electromechanical systems from project concepting through production implementation on aggressive timelines. 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.

Join a driven team that’s tackling challenging projects, delivering on exciting missions, and making an impact on the future of space!

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Please note:

this position can be hired at the Senior Mechanical Engineer I or Senior Mechanical Engineer II level.)

• Lead schedule‑aggressive development of innovative space mechanisms from concept through implementation as responsible engineer
• Design mechanisms and structures in CAD and analyze using hand calcs and FEA
• Lead requirements definition, traceability, compliance, verification, and system validation
• Prepare and maintain technical documentation, such as system design descriptions, CONOPS and ICDs
• Create and maintain requirements verification matrices and risk management plans
• Support constant incremental improvements to the development team’s engineering approach and best practices
• Generate technical reports and presentations to communicate findings, progress, and recommendations to internal stakeholders and external partners
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure proper functionality across system interfaces and for end users
• Own development schedules, project milestone reviews and technical interchange meetings
• Mentor other engineers
• Support business development proposals and custom SOWs
• Support travel or off‑site work to suppliers, customers, and other Rocket Lab sites, approximately 10%.

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering field
• 5+ years experience in aerospace mechanical development projects
• CAD and FEA proficiency
• Thorough understandings of aerospace standards, environments, verification tests and requirements
• Experience…