Mechanical Engineer I​/II

About The Role 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.

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.

Based out of Rocket Lab’s site in Toronto, Ontario, the Mechanical Engineer will play a key role in developing and sustaining mechanical systems for both heritage and next‑generation products, along with the ground support equipment that enables them. You’ll take ownership of mechanical and thermal design efforts, execute environmental testing, and lead non‑conformance investigations and design updates. You’ll also partner closely with production and manufacturing engineering to optimize build processes and support part procurement and subcontractor coordination.

Join a driven team of pioneers relentlessly tackling challenging projects, delivering on the impossible, and making an impact on the future of space!

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Please note:

This role can be hired at the Mechanical Engineer I or Mechanical Engineer II level.)

• Complete mechanical and thermal design and analysis for existing and new products as well as associated ground support equipment
• Carry out environmental testing in support of qualification of new and modified designs
• Support non‑conformance reviews, root cause analyses and design changes to facilitate manufacture
• Support the production team and manufacturing engineer in implementing new, and improving existing, manufacturing processes
• Support mechanical part procurement and subcontract management

• Bachelors degree in a relevant engineering field
• Advanced knowledge/skill in CAD modeling/drawing (i.e. Solid Edge)

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering field
• 2+ Years of related work experience
• Advanced knowledge/skill in CAD modeling/drawing (i.e. Solid Edge)

• Master’s degree in mechanical engineering or aerospace engineering
• Direct experience in designing, developing, and testing spacecraft structures and mechanisms
• Ability to apply GD&T to component drawings
• Experience with analysis and interpretation of environmental test data (Thermal, Vibe)
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills
• Exceptional mechanical problem‑solving skills
• Exposu…