Senior Dynamics Analyst - Space Launch Vibration & Testing

Rocket Lab; Auckland; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Auckland, New Zealand is seeking a Senior Dynamics Analyst for the Neutron program to contribute to analysis, design validation, and future improvements of the Neutron launch vehicle from concept through integration and launch.

You will predict loads and environments, support testing campaigns, specify instrumentation, and perform detailed simulations. The role requires a physics-based mindset and experience with Python and FEA tools.

Qualifications

• Degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
• 5+ years industry experience in aerospace, automotive, or marine industries.
• A keen physics-based approach to problem solving.
• Demonstrated experience with sensor selection and data post-processing/interpretation (accelerometers, strain gauges, thermocouples).
• Demonstrated experience with static and dynamic structural test methods, including: Modal Characterization, Acoustics, Random vibration, Shock.
• Experience with engineering programming and data analysis, especially in Python.
• Experience with finite element modelling and analysis with one or more industry standard structural FEA packages: Femap/NX Nastran, Simcenter/NX Nastran, Abaqus, Optistruct/Hyperworks.
• Comfort executing to changing deadlines within a high-pressure environment.

Responsibilities

• Predict launch vehicle vibration environments based on finite element analysis and analytical methods.
• Contribute the test plan definition, support test activities, and post process test results for dynamic testing (random vibration, acoustics, shock).
• Define suitable sensors (type and location) to monitor the in-flight environments and post process data to verify correlation with numerical predictions.
• Working closely with avionics, mechanical, fluids, and propulsion team members to determine suitable mounting strategies for vehicle and ground system components.
• Collect documentation of test environments and qualification status for vehicle components.

Skills

Sensor selection

Data post-processing

Python

Modal analysis

Vibration analysis

Education

Bachelors in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

Femap/NX Nastran

Simcenter/NX Nastran

Abaqus

Optistruct/Hyperworks

Job description

Rocket Lab in Auckland, New Zealand is seeking a Senior Dynamics Analyst for the Neutron program to contribute to analysis, design validation, and future improvements of the Neutron launch vehicle from concept through integration and launch.

You will predict loads and environments, support testing campaigns, specify instrumentation, and perform detailed simulations. The role requires a physics-based mindset and experience with Python and FEA tools.