Senior Fluids and Mechanical Test Engineer

Senior Fluids and Mechanical Test Engineer

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more. Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights! ABOUT THE TEAM The Space Systems Propulsion team is responsible for developing and delivering qualified, flight-ready space vehicle propulsion systems. The team takes on cradle-to-grave ownership of systems and components. From mission requirement through detailed design, qualification, integration, and on-orbit operation. Examples of past work include the Curie and HyperCurie engines, and the ESCAPADE spacecraft propulsion systems. Currently, the team is working on the whole propulsion system for the Victus Haze mission. The team consists of development engineers and development technicians with a range of experience and skillsets, spanning systems engineering, design, build, test, and operations. The common thread across all members of the team is the ability to work hands-on with development, qualification, and flight hardware. Team members interface regularly with stakeholders across the company, including GNC, Manufacturing Engineering, Production, Flight Software, Thermal, Structures, and others. WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO: As a Senior Development Engineer focusing on fluid component and system testing, your purpose will be to work with your team to develop new systems and components and innovate on existing designs. You will identify and solve challenges that arise during development, qualification, and production, ensuring the success of our missions and products. Additionally, you will help set best practice, provide guidance, training, and mentorship to other team members. A key part of your role will be review and signoff on test plans and test reports, as well as risk-based decision making to guide the team through development challenges. Besides being a specialist in all things testing (planning, setup, instrumentation, execution, analysis, and reporting), you will need to have a systems engineering mindset and communicate well and regularly with many different stakeholders. YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• A genuine passion for engineering, curious mindset, and willingness to learn.
• 5+ years of experience in propulsion system or component development, or equivalent high-performance field.
• Hands-on experience with pressurized gas or fluid system testing, instrumentation, and test control.
• Expertise in LabView and National Instruments data acquisition systems, or equivalent and eagerness to learn NI.
• Comfortable working with high levels of ambiguity; resourcefully making decisions using engineering first principles, available information, and risk.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Capabilities using Python for data manipulation and post-processing.
• Experience with end-to-end development process including gathering requirements, detailed design, qualification, production, and acceptance testing.
• Experience with 1D fluid system modelling.
• Masters or PhD.

Rocket Lab Employee Benefits

• The opportunity to work on innovative and groundbreaking technology.
• An employee stock purchase program.
• Access to world-leading experts to develop your career.
• Unlimited barista coffee, fruit, and snacks.
• Discounted health insurance with Southern Cross.
• Additional parental leave entitlement.

If the above sounds like you, apply now! WHAT TO EXPECT We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way. FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY: For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations. #J-18808-Ljbffr