Lead Dynamics Engineer - Aerospace Vibration & FEA

Rocket Lab Corporation; Auckland; On-site; NZD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Auckland, New Zealand seeks a Senior Dynamics Analyst to lead loads, environments, and instrumentation for the Neutron launch vehicle. You will perform simulations, support qualification campaigns, and define measurement strategies from concept through integration and launch.

You will apply Python-based data analysis, operate with FE tools, and work with a cross-disciplinary team to ensure design and test fidelity under tight schedules. This role is based in Auckland.

Qualifications

• Degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
• 5+ years industry experience in aerospace, automotive, or marine.
• Physics-based problem solving approach.
• Experience with sensor selection and data post-processing/interpretation (accelerometers, strain gauges, thermocouples).
• Experience with static and dynamic structural test methods: modal characterization, acoustics, random vibration, shock.
• Engineering programming in Python for data analysis.
• FEA experience with one or more industry standard packages (Femap/NX Nastran, Simcenter/NX Nastran, Abaqus, Optistruct/Hyperworks).
• Ability to work to changing deadlines in a high-pressure environment.

Responsibilities

• Predict launch vehicle vibration environments using FE analysis and analytical methods.
• Support test plan definition and testing activities for dynamic testing.
• Define sensors and post-process data to verify correlation with predictions.
• Collaborate with avionics, mechanical, fluids and propulsion teams to determine mounting strategies.
• Document test environments and qualification status for vehicle components.

Education

Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering degree

Tools

Femap

NX Nastran

Simcenter/NX Nastran

Abaqus

Optistruct/Hyperworks

NX CAD

Teamcenter

Job description

Rocket Lab in Auckland, New Zealand seeks a Senior Dynamics Analyst to lead loads, environments, and instrumentation for the Neutron launch vehicle. You will perform simulations, support qualification campaigns, and define measurement strategies from concept through integration and launch.

You will apply Python-based data analysis, operate with FE tools, and work with a cross-disciplinary team to ensure design and test fidelity under tight schedules. This role is based in Auckland.