Team Lead - Thermofluids Analysis

JobSpace; Auckland; On-site; NZD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Auckland seeks a Team Lead - Thermofluids Analysis to guide a skilled team of analysts in support of launch vehicle and space system design validation. You will drive CFD workflows and data-driven decisions, ensuring robust models and timely delivery.

The role emphasizes first-principles physics, rigorous data analysis, and strong collaboration with design and test engineers across global programs. Effective leadership and mentoring are essential for success.

Qualifications

• Advanced engineering degree with 5+ years in aerospace, automotive, or marine sectors.
• Expert-level CFD and thermal modeling proficiency.
• Experience validating complex analyses and documenting results.
• Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Lead thermofluids analysis for launch vehicles and space systems.
• Perform CFD simulations of hypersonic and subsonic flows.
• Collaborate with design and test engineers to iterate concepts and validate data.
• Mentor analysts and develop training and performance plans.
• Document best practices and coordinate knowledge sharing across global teams.

Skills

CFD simulations

Thermofluids analysis

Python programming

NX CAD

Data post-processing

Cross-functional collab

First principles

Communication

Education

Advanced engineering degree in Mechanical/Aerospace

Tools

Fluent

CFX

STAR-CCM+

THERMICA

NX SST

Thermal Desktop

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. 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.

Rocket Lab's Neutron team is responsible for bringing our new large rocket Neutron and its launch and test sites to life. From designing and testing Neutron's structures and components, to firing up its new Archimedes engines, to setting up Neutron's launch pads and test sites across the United States, joining the Neutron team is your opportunity to help launch a new large rocket for the very first time.

As a Team Lead - Thermofluids Analysis based at Rocket Lab's site in Auckland, you will be leading a team of hard-working and mission-focused thermofluid analyst in support of analysis, design validation, and future improvements of Rocket Lab's suite of Launch Vehicles, Space Systems, and Space Components. To be successful in this role, you must be a role model for professional behavior. You'll be responsible for setting the tone, driving productivity, and ensuring deadlines and targets are consistently met.

Lead complex thermofluids analysis for Rocket Lab's launch vehicles and space systems, including CFD simulations of hypersonic and subsonic aerodynamic flows, internal fluid systems (compressible and incompressible flow), and heat transfer analysis (conduction, convection, and radiation)

Drive cross-functional collaboration by working closely with design and test engineers to iterate design concepts, process flight and ground test data to validate vehicle performance, and identify anomalies using first principles physics and data analysis

Shape technical direction by conducting peer reviews, establishing analysis methodology, documenting best practices, and producing qualification test levels while coordinating knowledge sharing across global teams

Mentor and develop the team by coaching junior analysts on technical best practices, creating training opportunities, establishing performance management plans, and serving as a role model for professional behavior and effective team discussions

Advanced engineering degree (Mechanical, Aerospace, or similar) with 5+ years of industry experience from Aerospace, Automotive, or Marine sectors, bringing a strong physics and first principles approach to problem-solving

Expert-level CFD and thermal modeling skills with hands-on experience using industry-standard packages (Fluent, CFX, STAR-CCM+, Thermal Desktop, THERMICA, or NX SST) and proven ability to validate and document complex analyses

Strong technical toolkit including proficiency with NX CAD/Teamcenter (or comparable packages), sensor selection and data post-processing, and engineering programming expertise in Python (numpy, pandas, scipy, matplotlib)

Proven execution and communication abilities with demonstrated success delivering results under changing deadlines in high-pressure environments, building strong cross-functional relationships, and communicating effectively through written documents and presentations