GNC Engineer I: Trajectory & Flight Dynamics

Rocket Lab Corporation; Auckland; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking an experienced GNC Engineer I for the Electron program to join our Auckland-based team. You will contribute to trajectory design, auto-sequence planning, Monte Carlo analyses, and mission verification across launch sites and test facilities.

You will work on guidance, navigation, and control development, vehicle parameter modeling, and 6DOF simulations, supporting launch operations and HITL activities while adhering to safety protocols.

Qualifications

• Master’s, bachelor’s or higher degree in Aerospace, Mechatronics or equivalent qualification.
• Strong understanding of orbital mechanics.
• Understanding of rigid body dynamics.
• 1–2 years of software development experience.
• 1–2 years of aerospace engineering, including rocketry experience.

Responsibilities

• Trajectory optimization and mission design for launch vehicles and related missions.
• Auto sequence design for maneuvers, telemetry, and ground station contacts; verification for flight/tests.
• Monte-Carlo analysis pre-flight and post-flight.
• Design and verification of spacecraft separation sequences.
• GNC R&D and support for Electron/Neutron programs.
• Launch day and HITL operations.
• Health and safety compliance and good practice.

Skills

Orbital mechanics understanding

Rigid body dynamics

Education

Master’s, bachelor’s or higher degree in Aerospace, Mechatronics or equivalent qualification

Tools

Python

MATLAB

GMAT

STK

3DOF propagator development

Job description

Rocket Lab is seeking an experienced GNC Engineer I for the Electron program to join our Auckland-based team. You will contribute to trajectory design, auto-sequence planning, Monte Carlo analyses, and mission verification across launch sites and test facilities.

You will work on guidance, navigation, and control development, vehicle parameter modeling, and 6DOF simulations, supporting launch operations and HITL activities while adhering to safety protocols.