Senior AI&T Engineering II​/Principal; Mechanical - Secret Clearance

Senior AI&T Engineering II/Principal (Mechanical) - Secret Clearance

We are looking for a Senior AI&T Engineering II/Principal (Mechanical) - Secret Clearance based at our Optical Systems site in Tucson, AZ. You will lead mechanical integration and test activities for high‑reliability payload assemblies and flight hardware, including hands‑on build tasks, precision alignment, fit checks, environmental test preparation, and mechanical verification across multiple test stages. You will collaborate with Optics, Electrical, Systems, and AIT teams to ensure structurally and thermally compliant integrations while supporting continuous improvement in mechanical processes and test methods.

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Please note:

this position can be hired at the Senior Engineer II or Principal level)

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. We are working to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium‑lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds an extensive line of satellites, payloads, and components, including spacecraft 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 and precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space—including solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

• Lead mechanical integration and verification of high‑reliability payload assemblies, subassemblies, and flight hardware
• Execute mechanical build tasks, precision alignments, torque/​tolerance verification, and hardware fit checks
• Coordinate environmental testing (vibration, shock, TVAC) and assess mechanical performance throughout test campaigns
• Identify mechanical integration risks, develop mitigation plans, and drive rapid issue resolution—we hustle
• Work closely with Optics, Electrical, Systems, and AIT teams to ensure structurally and thermally compliant integrations—we have each other's back
• Refine mechanical procedures, integration tooling, and test setups to increase efficiency and hardware consistency
• Support readiness reviews, data packages, configuration audits, and delivery milestones
• Drive continuous improvements in build processes, mechanical verification approaches, and interface control

• Active U.S. Government Security Clearance with TS/SCI eligibility
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering; advanced degree preferred
• 8+ years hands‑on experience integrating and testing mechanical hardware for space or high‑reliability systems
• Strong experience with CAD tools (Solid Works) for interface interpretation and integration planning
• Working knowledge of GD&T, tolerancing, precision mechanical alignment, and hardware inspection
• Experience with environmental test preparation and post‑test mechanical inspection

• Active U.S. Government Security Clearance with TS/SCI eligibility
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering; advanced degree preferred
• 12+ years hands‑on experience integrating and testing mechanical hardware for space or high‑reliability systems
• Strong experience with CAD tools (Solid Works) for interface interpretation and integration planning
• Working knowledge of GD&T, tolerancing, precision mechanical alignment, and hardware inspection
• Experience with…