Senior Vehicle Design Engineer

Rocket Lab; Auckland; On-site; NZD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Senior Vehicle Design Engineer to join their innovative team. This role offers the chance to influence the design of cutting-edge spacecraft and systems, contributing to missions that push the boundaries of space exploration. You will engage in hands-on design R&D, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and mentor junior engineers, all while thriving in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. If you are passionate about engineering and eager to make a significant impact in the aerospace sector, this opportunity is perfect for you!

Qualifications

• 5+ years of engineering experience with a focus on spacecraft design.
• Expertise in 3D CAD modeling and pressurized mechanical systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead design projects for spacecraft systems and hardware.
• Mentor junior engineers and address production quality issues.

Skills

3D CAD Software

Analytical Skills

Problem Solving

Communication Skills

Creativity

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering

Tools

NX CAD

Teamcenter

Job description

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

Position Purpose

The Structural & Mechanical Systems team supports the hardware design and development of spacecraft structures, Photon platforms and related payload and mission objectives. The Structural & Mechanical Systems team works closely with other engineering teams and Production to bring new concepts to life. This includes the development of spacecraft systems, related data structures, and documentation to support the associated manufacturing and performance improvements.

As a Senior Vehicle Design Engineer at Rocket Lab, you will be strongly influencing the design of numerous spacecraft projects. You will have unparalleled opportunities for end-to-end hardware development and seeing your designs reach space.

Success in this position will be measured by the value of the knowledge and experience in analysis that you bring to this role, your ability to lead analysis projects without supervision, successful collaboration with other teams across Rocket Lab, and the skillful prioritization of competing engineering development projects across the group.

• Performing design R&D and design updates to the range of spacecraft platforms, and space systems hardware to improve performance, reduce risk, or reduce manufacturing cost.
• Helping with design documentation, FMEA, P&IDs, ICDs etc.
• Lead design projects without supervision but with good stakeholder buy-in and collaboration across the company.
• Designing prototype parts.
• Designing tooling as required.
• Developing mission-specific layouts for customer payloads.
• Addressing quality issues that arise from the production floor.
• Mentor and technically assist junior engineers.

Successful candidates in this role will thrive in ambiguity, and are excited to work in a small, high performing team focused on continued learning and growth.

• 5+ years working experience in Engineering.
• Significant experience modelling with 3D CAD software, ideally NX CAD, and associated PLM solution (Teamcenter).
• Creative, analytical, good at problem solving.
• Ability to work on own initiative with ability to plan own daily workflow to meet higher level tasks.
• Clear communication skills, able to work under pressure.
• Expertise with Pressurised mechanical systems.
• Experienced in Mechanical moving assemblies.
• Experienced in Composites structures.
• Experienced in Cryogenic systems including oxygen service systems.

WHAT TO EXPECT

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.