Ground Systems Mechanical Engineer II – Launch Hardware

Rocket Lab Corp.; Auckland; Hybrid; NZD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking a Ground Systems Engineer II - Mechanical for Team X. This hands-on role involves designing mechanical systems, creating CAD models, and developing schematics for launch infrastructure supporting Electron and Neutron vehicles.

You will collaborate across teams, work with vendors, and contribute to risk analyses and documentation. Ideal candidates have a diploma/degree in aerospace/mechanical engineering, experience with structural design, and the ability to read technical

Qualifications

• Diploma or degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Mechatronics, or CAD Engineering (or equivalent).
• Experience with structural design and industrial equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and schematics.
• Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, hands-on environment.

Responsibilities

• Define project requirements with cross-functional teams.
• Design mechanical systems including vehicle interfaces, structures, mechanisms, and fluid systems.
• Create 2D and 3D models using CAD software.
• Develop schematics, P&IDs, process diagrams, and BOMs.
• Perform design trade studies and ensure compliance with engineering standards.
• Work closely with vendors and internal production teams to optimize designs for manufacturability.
• Contribute to risk assessments, hazard analyses, and FMEAs.
• Produce technical documentation such as manuals, procedures, and work instructions.
• Integration & Test: support test plans, design and maintain test equipment, assist with data analysis.
• Operations Support: assist with installation, commissioning, and launch operations on-site or remotely.

Skills

Mechanical design

CAD modeling

NX/SolidWorks

P&ID

FMEAs

ASME/ASTM familiarity

Education

Aerospace/Mechanical degree

Tools

NX

SolidWorks

Teamcenter

EPDM

Job description

Rocket Lab is seeking a Ground Systems Engineer II - Mechanical for Team X. This hands-on role involves designing mechanical systems, creating CAD models, and developing schematics for launch infrastructure supporting Electron and Neutron vehicles.

You will collaborate across teams, work with vendors, and contribute to risk analyses and documentation. Ideal candidates have a diploma/degree in aerospace/mechanical engineering, experience with structural design, and the ability to read technical