Senior Dynamics Analyst — Space Vehicle Vibration & Testing

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

Job summary

Rocket Lab's Neutron team in Auckland seeks a Senior Dynamics Analyst to help build and validate the Neutron launch vehicle through loads, environments, and instrumentation. You will predict vibration environments, support testing, and develop methodologies used across the engineering group.

The role requires a mechanical or aerospace degree, 5+ years' experience in relevant industries, solid Python data analysis skills, and hands-on experience with FEA tools such as Nastran or Abaqus.

Qualifications

• Degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
• 5+ years industry experience in Aerospace/Automotive/Marine.
• Experience with sensor selection and data post-processing.
• Experience with static and dynamic structural test methods (modal characterization, acoustics, random vibration, shock).
• Engineering programming and data analysis, especially Python.
• Experience with FEM packages: Femap/NX Nastran, Simcenter/NX Nastran, Abaqus, Optistruct/Hyperworks.
• Ability to adapt to changing deadlines in a high-pressure environment.

Responsibilities

• Predict launch vehicle vibration environments using FE analysis and analytical methods.
• Define test plan, support test activities, and post-process test results for dynamic testing (random vibration, acoustics, shock).
• Define suitable sensors (type and location) to monitor in-flight environments and post-process data to verify correlation with predictions.
• Collaborate with avionics, mechanical, fluids, and propulsion teams to determine mounting strategies for components.
• Document test environments and qualification status for vehicle components.

Skills

Python programming

Physics-based problem solving

Sensor data post-processing

Problem solving under pressure

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

Femap/NX Nastran

Simcenter/NX Nastran

Abaqus

Optistruct/Hyperworks

NX CAD

Job description

Rocket Lab's Neutron team in Auckland seeks a Senior Dynamics Analyst to help build and validate the Neutron launch vehicle through loads, environments, and instrumentation. You will predict vibration environments, support testing, and develop methodologies used across the engineering group.

The role requires a mechanical or aerospace degree, 5+ years' experience in relevant industries, solid Python data analysis skills, and hands-on experience with FEA tools such as Nastran or Abaqus.