Development Engineer

JobSpace; Auckland; On-site; NZD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab seeks a Development Engineer to join the Ion Propulsion team in New Zealand. You will work hands-on with ion propulsion hardware, test new systems, and innovate existing designs to advance space missions and products.

You will develop test equipment, procedures and data analysis methods while collaborating with a cross-functional team. Strong problem-solving and documentation skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Degree in engineering or physics with 1+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Hands-on testing experience with propulsion or mechanical/electromechanical systems preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication for technical documentation.

Responsibilities

• Execute hands-on testing of ion propulsion hardware and components.
• Develop test equipment, procedures and analysis methods.
• Identify and resolve design or test failures with cross-functional teams.
• Create thorough technical documentation following company standards.
• Collaborate with engineers, designers, analysts and technicians on anomalies and improvements.
• Develop and maintain data processing and test automation code.

Skills

Ion propulsion testing

Python programming

Data manipulation

Instrumentation & data acquisition

Test automation

Documentation

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Education

Engineering or Physics degree

Tools

Python

Data acquisition systems

Vacuum systems

Electrical testing equipment

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

Are you ready to be part of New Zealand's space revolution? We're seeking a passionate Development Engineer to join our Ion Propulsion team, working on cutting-edge technology that powers the future of space exploration.

As a Development Engineer, you'll be at the forefront of ion propulsion development, testing new systems and innovating existing designs. Working hands-on with sophisticated hardware, you'll solve complex engineering challenges that directly impact our missions and products. This is your opportunity to work alongside talented development engineers, designers, analysts, and technicians in a collaborative environment where your contributions truly matter.

Hands-on Testing: Execute test activities for ion propulsion systems and components

Innovation: Develop test equipment, procedures, and analysis methods to advance vehicle testing capabilities

Problem-Solving: Proactively identify and resolve quality issues and technical challenges

Documentation: Create thorough technical documentation following company standards

Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams on anomaly resolution and design improvements

Automation: Develop and maintain data processing and test automation code

Production Support: Transition acceptance testing processes to production teams

Passion & Curiosity: A genuine enthusiasm for engineering and a hunger to learn

Education & Experience: Degree in engineering or physics with 1+ years of relevant industry experience

Ownership Mindset: Strong sense of responsibility and drive to see projects through to completion

Hands-On Skills: Proven experience building or testing mechanical or electromechanical components/systems

Problem-Solving: Exceptional analytical abilities and meticulous attention to detail

Communication: Excellent reading and writing skills

Experience with electric propulsion testing, vacuum systems, high voltage, or particle beams

Background in rocket engines, fluid components, or spacecraft propulsion systems

Python programming capabilities for data manipulation and post-processing

Experience with instrumentation, sensors, and data acquisition systems

Thrives on tough engineering challenges with a positive, can-do attitude

Takes ownership and delivers results on schedule

Communicates transparently and provides constructive feedback

Adapts flexibly to support team needs

Believes no task is beneath them

Maintains professionalism and follows safety protocols rigorously

Work on real space missions with tangible impact

Collaborate with a world‑class engineering team

Develop your career in New Zealand's growing space industry

Engage with cutting-edge ion propulsion technology

Contribute to innovations that push the boundaries of space exploration

If you're motivated by complex engineering challenges and want to contribute to humanity's future in space, we want to hear from you.