GNC Engineer I: Trajectory & Mission Design

Rocket Lab; Auckland; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking a GNC Engineer I for the Electron program in New Zealand. The role focuses on trajectory design, auto-sequence planning, Monte Carlo analysis, and mission verification across launch campaigns, with responsibilities spanning design, testing, and flight readiness.

The ideal candidate has a strong foundation in orbital mechanics and rigid body dynamics, plus 1–2 years in software development and aerospace experience, including rocketry.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Trajectory optimization and mission design for launch vehicle orbital and suborbital missions (HASTE).
• Auto sequence design, maneuvers, telemetry and ground station contacts, and verification for flight and tests.
• 3DOF/6DOF trajectory analysis and Monte-Carlo pre-flight studies.
• Development and maintenance of GNC software and hardware interfaces.
• Launch operations support and HITL activities.
• Ensure health and safety policies and procedures are followed.

Skills

Orbital mechanics understanding

Rigid body dynamics

Software development

Education

Master’s, bachelor’s or higher in Aerospace/Mechatronics

Tools

Python

MATLAB

GMAT

STK

Job description

Rocket Lab is seeking a GNC Engineer I for the Electron program in New Zealand. The role focuses on trajectory design, auto-sequence planning, Monte Carlo analysis, and mission verification across launch campaigns, with responsibilities spanning design, testing, and flight readiness.

The ideal candidate has a strong foundation in orbital mechanics and rigid body dynamics, plus 1–2 years in software development and aerospace experience, including rocketry.