Materials & Processes Engineer II - Space Structures

Telemetry Today LLC; Auckland; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab's M&P Development Engineer II role focuses on developing, characterizing, and qualifying materials and manufacturing processes for the Neutron launch vehicle. You will support material selection, process development, testing, and documentation, collaborating with design and manufacturing teams to deliver high-performance structures.

You will work on primary and secondary structures, contribute to process qualification, and mentor junior engineers while thriving in a fast-paced,

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or equivalent qualification.
• 2+ years’ experience in materials and processes engineering, preferably in aerospace or high-reliability industries
• Experience with material characterization techniques (e.g., mechanical testing, microscopy, NDT)
• Demonstrated capability in the implementation of materials and process qualification activities
• Experience with CAD software such as NX (preferred), SolidWorks, CATIA
• The ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work well within a team environment
• Sound analytical skills and the ability to see the big picture and making connections and appropriate decisions
• Have tenacity, a can-do attitude, and the ability to think quickly and make accurate judgements

Responsibilities

• Design elements including thermal protection systems, composites, metallic interfaces, and secondary structural elements, working closely with analysts to ensure designs are appropriately sized and structural & thermal requirements are met
• Develop and qualify materials and processes for primary and secondary structures, including metallics, composites, adhesives, and coatings
• Support design teams with material selection and process recommendations to meet structural, thermal, and environmental requirements
• Conduct material characterization, process validation, and operational oversight
• Prepare and maintain technical documentation, including material/process specifications, test reports, and procedures
• Collaborate with suppliers and internal teams to manage, develop, and improve specifications and standards
• Proactively identify and solve technical challenges to enable rapid development and production
• Mentor and technically assist junior engineers
• Ideal candidates will thrive in ambiguity and are excited to work in a small, high-performing team focused on continued learning and growth. Success in this position will be measured by your technical expertise, ability to lead projects independently, and your ability to collaborate across teams to deliver results

Skills

Materials science

Mechanical engineering

Materials characterization

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or equivalent

Tools

NX

SolidWorks

CATIA

Job description

Rocket Lab's M&P Development Engineer II role focuses on developing, characterizing, and qualifying materials and manufacturing processes for the Neutron launch vehicle. You will support material selection, process development, testing, and documentation, collaborating with design and manufacturing teams to deliver high-performance structures.

You will work on primary and secondary structures, contribute to process qualification, and mentor junior engineers while thriving in a fast-paced,